As promised, we’re following the rebirth of Ford’s original (other than the scout cars it built for the military) brush-bashing baby, the Bronco, and yes, it’s fully respectful of the vehicle that started it all way back in 1966. We spoke about Fiat Chrysler Automobiles a little earlier, and we’re here to make clear that the revived 2021 Bronco is a heavy-caliber shot fired directly across the bow of FCA, specifically targeting one of its halo vehicles and profit leaders, the Jeep Wrangler. We think we can confidently predict that this iteration of the Bronco will give pause to any prospective Wrangler buyer.
First off, the new Bronco will be offered in two body styles, including the first four-door Bronco ever built. Two-doors will have three-section removable roofs. The four-doors will have a standard fabric roof, and its roof will be removable in four pieces. All Broncos will have removable doors; the four-door’s can be stowed onboard in protective bags. Seven individual Bronco series will be produced, with four content packages. A color LCD multifunction instrument panel can be augmented by an exclusive SYNC 4 system with 12-inch color screen that incorporates an archive of more than 1,000 driver-selectable trail maps. EcoBoost turbocharged engines will be part of the package, either a 2.3-liter inline-four with 270 horsepower or a 2.7-liter V-6 rated at 310 horsepower. Both will be coupled to a new, segment-exclusive seven-speed manual transmission that includes a rock-crawler low gear. Shift-on-the-fly or automatic 4×4 systems will be available, using Dana axles and Spicer differentials. The powertrains will offer seven driving modes. It’s very clear that this vehicle is built and outfitted with hardcore off-roading in mind. The base MSRP is set at $29,995. Plunk down a $100 fee, and you can reserve one of your own by going here.
Jim Donnelly On Wheels 