Questions and mysteries swirl around the possibility of a comeback for the Ford Bronco. Off road warriors hope that the tough and stylish concept car presented at the Detroit Auto Show in 2004 will finally become a reality, but Ford has neither confirmed nor denied the rumors for a new Bronco in either 2017 or 2018. Ford discontinued production of the crossover SUV in 1996 to be replaced by the Expedition in the full-sized SUV market. The 2004 concept never went into production as Ford focused on the third generation Escape instead.
New Bronco Power-train
The concept vehicle from 2004 could be one step closer to reality by building on the current F-150 platform. Additional rumors suggest that while Ford will not bring back the Bronco, one of their partners in Atlanta will reveal a Bronco-styled body on the F-150 platform. Other possible platforms for the new Bronco could be shared with the Ford Explorer or Ranger.
The 2004 concept model offered three engine choices. The possible engines include a 2.0 L inter-cooled engine, a four-cylinder engine, or a turbo diesel engine. Its 128 horsepower should provide plenty of power to tackle any terrain from city driving to boulder crawling. The powerful engine is paired with a six speed manual transmission. Other engine choices being discussed include borrowing engines from the current F-150 such as a 5.0 L V-8 engine or a 3.5 L twin turbo V-6. Using the Eco-boost fuel technology should improve the fuel economy, but there are no specifications for gas mileage at this time. All engine choices should work with an intelligent four-wheel drive system that will allow the Bronco to go anywhere with ease.
Redesign of Ford Bronco
The retro styling creates a boxy appearance with a wide chrome grille and round headlamps. The tough frame combined with the large eighteen inch aluminum wheels and all-terrain tires further help the Bronco tackle any terrain without fear. It continues to sport just two doors rather than the more popular four-dour design found on other SUVs. Interior styling will include upgrades to more luxurious materials and updated technology.
Ford Bronco Price and Release date
Anticipated pricing for the possible Ford Bronco will probably start at $26,000. However, additional specifications and amenities could raise the price up to $45,000. Since Ford is staying quiet about the possible comeback, there is no release date available. Unfortunately, the Bronco does not appear on the Ford website with the other new releases being announced for 2017 or even 2018. Bronco fans may have to dream a little longer before they can again drive this classic off road work horse.
More info:
As expected, buried deep inside the many pages of Ford’s proposed new contract with the UAW are discussions on what’s going to happen at the Michigan Assembly Plant after production of the C-Max and Focus are moved to Mexico after 2018. Not surprisingly, coinciding with that news, two nameplates that have long resonated with traditional Ford buyers are once again circulating the rumor mill: Bronco and Ranger.
According to The Detroit Free Press, which quotes the always nebulous “person briefed on the agreement who was not authorized to speak publicly,” the Ranger is headed for production by 2020 in Michigan, followed shortly thereafter by a new Bronco. That timing makes sense– assuming the Focus and C-Max move out in 2018, it would take some time to switch gears at the plant from making compact cars to midsize pickup trucks and SUVs.