1996 Ford Icon Bronco
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Ford Icon Bronco
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Year:1996
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Make:
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Model:
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Engine:V8
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Transmission:five-speed manual transmission
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Horsepower @ RPM:412
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Torque @ RPM:390
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Displacement:5000 L
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body style:
The Ford Bronco was first launched onto the market in 1966 where it reveled in 30 years of production, until being discontinued in 1996. But after 15 years of non-existence, the Bronco was brought back with a specially customized unit at the 2011 SEMA Auto Show.
The tuned-up Ford Bronco is the product of Jonathan Ward and famous Ford designer, Camilo Pardo’s hard work. The two men wanted to maintain the original Bronco’s classic aesthetic and design values, while also reinventing everything about the car down to the smallest details.
The Icon Bronco uses a 2011 Ford Coyote 5.0 liter V8 engine that delivers a total of 412 HP and 390 lb-ft of torque, more than doubling the original Bronco’s output of 200 HP. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and an Atlas II part-time four-wheel drive system.
And just like any other modern SUV, the Icon Bronco has been equipped with bucket seats with carbon fiber elements, tinted glass, a laser-cut stainless steel door, and cargo panels with Volcanic Black powder coated trim bezels.
Latest Ford Bronco news and reviews:
1968 Ford Bronco Wagon by Jay Leno, Ford Performance, LGE-CTS, and SEMA Garage
With a modern Ford Bronco just around the corner, TV personality and car collector Jay Leno gave new life to a first-generation Bronco Wagon with help from Ford Performance and various aftermarket tuning shops. Shown to the public at the 2019 SEMA Show, this Bronco retains the looks of the original SUV, but it features modern underpinnings with a supercharged V-8 built by Ford Performance. The story behind the vehicle is quite interesting, as it was left for Jay Leno as a joke by fellow TV host Craig Ferguson. Leno kept the vehicle in his garage unrestored until he decided that it deserves a new life.
Various companies and shops contributed to the project, starting with Ford Performance, FoMoCo’s very own performance division. Kincer Chassis, Dennis Carpenter Ford Restoration Parts, SEMA Garage, and LGE-CTS Motorsports.
2020 Ford Bronco R Race Prototype
The 2020 Ford Bronco R is a concept vehicle that Ford created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first-gen Bronco’s historic Baja 1000 win from 1969. Unveiled ahead of the 2019 SEMA Show, it’s the first real life incarnation of the modern Bronco and it previews a production crossover that will arrive in 2020.
The 2020 Bronco R was unveiled alongside the first-gen Bronco that Rod Hall and Larry Minor drove to an overall win 50 years ago at the 1969 Baja 1000. It features a similar livery, so it makes it easier to draw a design parallel between the two. The concept is fully functional and will be used as a test bed for the Bronco’s production drivetrain. The 2020 Bronco R will also be raced by Shelby Hall, the granddaughter of the late Rod Hall, at the 2019 Baja 1000.
The New 2021 Ford Bronco Debuts in 2020 - Here’s When We’ll See It
Ford Motor Company has decided to give out the details about the launch of the new 2021 Ford Bronco in a small teaser video. The SUV will be coming in the spring of 2020, and with it comes an all-new logo in the video.
There is no denying that the upcoming Ford Bronco is the most anticipated vehicle in the U.S. at the moment. It has been in the news constantly for almost a year now, and it was spotted wearing camouflage a couple of times in the last few months. Leaked information and confirmated has stoked the fire even more. Now, it looks the big day of its reveal is finally set in stone. Are we hyped about it? Hell yeah!
Screw You Jeep, The Ford Bronco Will Have a Removable Roll Cage
Don’t lie; you expect the new 2020 Ford Bronco to have a removable roof. The Jeep Wrangler has one, and so did the old-school classic Bronco. With that in mind, it’s damn near a necessity that the new Bronco features a removable roof – and the rumor mill seems to agree that it will happen. However, Ford may be taking things one step further, and has patented a design for a removable roll cage – something that would give the new Bronco an airy experience, but would also harken back to the days when you could very easily die in the event of a rollover – the old-school Bronco with the removable roof didn’t have a roll cage at all.
Ford Takes a Page Out of Jeep’s Playbook; Will Launch the 2020 Bronco With Tons of Accessories Available
The return of the Ford Bronco is a big deal to everyone who has fond memories of the nameplate. Turns out, eager-beaver customers aren’t the only ones gearing up for the Bronco’s arrival in 2021. Aftermarket company and longtime Ford running mate Yakima is already hard at work developing post-production bits and accessories for the returning off-roader.
It may seem strange that a company existing outside of the Blue Oval umbrella already has access to something as important as the Bronco’s developmental plans, but for those who are unfamiliar, Yakima and Ford have a shared history that includes the tuner building accessories for several Ford models, including the Ranger pickup. So with the Bronco’s arrival on the horizon, Yakima’s already in its own lab creating all the aftermarket goodness future owners of the off-road SUV would possibly want in their rides.
2021 Ford Bronco II aka "Baby Bronco"
In March 2018, Ford unveiled its plans for the next two years, which includes many new models and a shift toward crossovers in the U.S. The bigger news includes dropping most cars in favor of SUVs, a hybrid version of the F-150 truck, and a revival of the iconic Bronco. The latter will be joined by a smaller sibling with similar boxy cues. A baby Bronco!
Described as a vehicle "designed to win a growing number of people who love getting away and spending time outdoors with their families and friends," the compact SUV was partially revealed in a teaser photo. In November 2018, photos of the actual vehicle leaked onto the web following a Ford dealer meeting. And based on what we can see, it’s aimed directly at Jeep. Specifically, while the new-generation Bronco will go against the all-popular Wrangler, the smaller crossover will take on the Renegade. There’s no official name for it yet, and details remain a mystery, but it could roll out by 2020.
Update 09/26/2019: Our spy photographers finally caught a real-life look at the all-new Ford Baby Bronco – possibly known as the Bronco II, if Ford decides to revive that name – so check out the special “Spy Shots” section below to see the new shots and learn more about it.
Word Around the Campfire Is That the 2020 Ford Bronco Will Have 33-inch Tires and a True-to-Life Manual Transmission
There is no denying that the upcoming Ford Bronco is the most anticipated vehicle at the moment. It has been in thr news constantly for almost a year now. The Corvette C8 kind of stole its thunder, but now that the mid-engined car’s hype has died down,the Bronco is back in the limelight in all its glory. From all the rumors and leaks surfacing online, it seems as though Ford is investing a lot in the Bronco so that it lives up to its credibility. When it comes to a hardcore off-roader, there are some things we purists can’t compromise on. And, it looks like Ford, too, knows this. This news will make a lot of you grin ear-to-ear. The new Ford Bronco could be mated to a manual transmission! Ford could also offer 33-inch off-road tires. Could our day get any better?
Here’s Everything We Know About the New Ford Bronco
I read a lot of Bronco stuff in my research for this article and let me tell you right away that we are in for the ride of our lives. Ford has some balls and, if we are lucky, it will probably give us just what we wanted - a retro looking 2020 Ford Bronco with live axles, three doors, a cool “no-roof” mechanism, a modern engine, and a freaking spare tire slapped at the back. A gazillion rumors have surfaced over the past few years about the new Bronco, but the last teaser picture revealed a lot.
The Bronco always was a cool vehicle. All the way from 1966, but it wasn’t until that OJ Simpson situation that it reached the status of an automotive icon like no other. Interestingly enough, we’ve had to wait a quarter of a century for Ford to reveal an all-new Bronco, a vehicle that will be a staple of American off-roading culture and the first one in a long time to attack the likes of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.
This is what we know about the 2020 Ford Bronco.
Ford Can’t Quit Filing Trademarks for the 2020 Bronco - Here’s the Full List and What they Might Be
Ford seems to be investing heavily in the upcoming Bronco. It looks like the Blue Oval is expecting the Bronco to be a runaway success, and to make sure that happens, the automaker is leaving no stone unturned. Ford has declared war on the Wrangler, plans to introduce a Raptor version, and now, has filed for multiple trademarks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, that could hint at different trim levels, special editions, or even concepts. If everything goes according to plan, the new Ford Bronco could become the most badass SUV on the market.
Here’s What the Ford Bronco Pickup Truck Needs to Slay the Jeep Gladiator
Jeep kept the enthusiasts waiting for over three decades to launch a new pickup truck. But this year, it finally launched the 2020 Gladiator that has impressed the hell out of everyone. It’s sales figures are not bad either, considering that the truck is slightly overpriced for what’s on offer. There were a lot of apprehensions before the launch as to what kind of customers Jeep will cater to with the Gladiator; with the most popular choice being the enthusiasts. However, Jeep sprung a surprise by launching it in trims that serves a wide variety of people. It all seemed good until Ford decided to drop a bomb on Jeep. News about a Ford Bronco-based pickup truck started surfacing the internet, and it sure garnered a lot of attention. The main reason as to why Gladiator was one of the most anticipated launches of the year because of its rich legacy. But with this new offering from Ford, the Gladiator’s advantage is nullified. However, Ford needs to bring out one hell of a product to trump the Gladiator and all the hype surrounding it. Do you think it could beat the 2020 Jeep Gladiator?
Word Has it that a V-8 Ford Bronco is in the Works and It Will Bear a Familiar Badge
The ’Raptor’ moniker is well on its way to becoming a legendary status in the Ford lineup. First it was the F-150 Raptor, then we heard about the Ranger Raptor, and now, the Bronco might get hitched to it as well. The Bronco itself is being hyped for a comeback, and the Raptor news has gotten us all the more excited. According to TFLnow, a source that monitors the new Bronco very closely, has said that the Bronco will receive the Raptor treatment. Well, that helped my mind get off the Corvette C8 excitement for a while!
The 2020 Ford Bronco Will take a swing at the Jeep Wrangler with 2.3 EcoBoost Engine
Already confirmed for a 2020 debut, the upcoming Ford Bronco is still a mystery, but various leaks have already provided info on its exterior design. Now, another leak confirms that the SUV will arrive with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine under the hood.
Redline Restoration’s 1971 Ford Bronco Preaches That Less Is More
Last time we crossed path with a Ford Bronco, it was the all-electric restomod from Zero Labs that made our interest piqued. This time, though, we’re looking at a more old-school approach from Redline Restoration on Ford’s iconic first-generation Bronco. Why old-school? Well, one of the reasons has to do with the Ford 302 engine it hides under the hood.
Zero Labs All-Electric Ford Bronco Restomod Is the Best Bronco
We get it; you’re eager to see what the 2020 Ford Bronco will be like. Yet, somehow, the idea of an all-electric Bronco restomod is making our hearts beat faster. Zero Labs’ plans in this direction are, at this point, a string of nicely worded phrases backed up by a video and a photo gallery that, in all fairness, left us asking for more.
The company also claims that the finite product is “restored and handcrafted to show car quality” and powered by a “covert, all-electric drive system.”
That’s why we dug deeper to see what hides behind the marketing blah-blah.
Ford’s Latest Patent Filing Hints at the Name of the New Baby Bronco
The Ford Bronco is the next hot thing in the world of SUVs. Relying on the cache built up by the original Bronco that was discontinued in 1996, the new model is tipped to sell in big numbers if Ford gets the recipe right and revives an off-roader revered for its no-nonsense attitude. We’re now hearing that the name ’Scout,’ along with the ’Bronco Scout’ moniker are in the process of being trademarked by Ford through the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The ’Scout’ name can either refer to the upcoming ’Baby Bronco’ or just a trim level of the Bronco itself.
Information has been thin regarding the 2021 Ford Bronco, which is set to go into production this year. We’ve heard a lot of rumors, but few can be checked and considered as facts. For instance, we’ve heard that the Bronco will come with either two or four doors and a removable soft top option will be available as Ford plans to take on the Jeep Wrangler - a rumor backed by these patent fillings. We also reported that the 2019 Ford Ranger and the 2021 Ford Bronco will sport the same underpinnings and that the Bronco might be fitted with a seven-speed manual after all. Let’s let the rumor mill spin a bit more and talk about the Scout.
The 2020 Ford Bronco Could Have a Retractable Cloth Roof and Removable Doors - A True Jeep Wrangler Competitor
Life for the Jeep Wrangler might become more difficult and complicated as there are other manufacturers out there plotting its demise by launching competitive alternatives to it. Land Rover is on the final stretch with its all-new Defender, as is Ford with its upcoming Bronco, a model that, according to some recent patent filings, is apparently going to have many of the same party pieces as the Wrangler. It may not have the folding windshield, but a removable top and removable doors are certainly on the list of goodies for the Bronco.
The 2020 Ford Bronco Will Take on the Jeep Wrangler with Removable Top, Choice of Two or Four Doors
Ford’s best-performing dealers were reportedly given an early look at a prototype for the upcoming 2020 Bronco, a model that’s been in the works for a few years, but just like Land Rover’s new Defender, the project is and has been shrouded in secrecy. It’s quite clear that the Blue Oval intends for it to fight not the hugely capable and successful Jeep Wrangler, but the all-new Defender as well. Rumor says that it will be offered with a removable top and could be offered in two- or four-door form!
Ford Announced 5 New Models in Detroit, Including the Bronco
Ford just unveiled the new Explorer at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show, but during the press conference it also announced five new models that it will launch over the next 24 months. Three of them are new generations of existing models, while the other two are brand-new nameplates, including a revival of the Bronco.
Ford is Dragging Its Feet on the New Bronco, Will Debut the new F-150 and Explorer First
After years of speculation, Ford finally confirmed that a new-generation Bronco will be unveiled soon. However, a new report claims that FoMoCo isn’t in a big hurry to launch the SUV and may have opted to roll out the new-generation F-150 pickup truck instead.
You Can Get a Fully Licensed, Brand New 1966-1977 Ford Bronco if You’re Willing to Pay for it
The new Ford Bronco will arrive in 2020, but those who can’t wait that long now have the opportunity to have their fill with the original Bronco courtesy of a company called Gateway Bronco. The Illinois-based outfit has been restoring the first-generation Bronco since it started operations in 2016. But thanks to a partnership with Ford, Gateway Bronco has announced plans to go beyond restoring original Broncos and will build brand new, old Broncos under license from Ford. Mind you; these aren’t Gateway’s “interpretation” of the original Broncos. These are original Broncos that Gateway will build with the blessing of Ford. They even come with a five-year, bumper-to-bumper warranty. Gateway plans to build three versions of the original Bronco, all in limited quantities. The price range of these models goes from $120,000 to $180,000.
Ford’s "Baby" Bronco Leaked in Dealer Meeting Photos
Back in March 2018, Ford confirmed that it will revive the iconic Bronco, as well as add a smaller, "baby" Bronco crossover to its lineup. Come November and the "baby" Bronco revealed itself earlier than planned in leaked images from a dealer meeting.
The 2020 Ford Bronco and 2019 Ford Ranger Will Be One and the Same Under the Skin
The Bronco is coming back, and we’re still waiting with bated breath for all the juicy details from Ford. Luckily, it’s looking like we won’t have to wait too much longer, as a full debut is expected early next year at the Detroit Auto Show this coming January. However, before then, we’re picking apart all the rumors we can get our hands on, including the possibility Ford will source the Bronco’s underlying structure from the new Ranger.
Rumor Says the New 2020 Ford Bronco Could Get a Seven Speed Manual Transmission
At a time when automakers are only producing automatic transmission cars, the Blue Oval is saving the three-pedal setup from going extinct. As per a report, the upcoming Ford Bronco could possibly get a manual transmission system in a few versions. If true, this makes Ford one of the very few automakers that still offer manual transmissions in an SUV or a truck.
Is This the 2021 Ford Bronco II, aka “Baby Bronco?”
As Ford moves away from its line of sedans, it’s instead focusing (perhaps “concentrating” is a more appropriate word) much more heavily on its crossovers and trucks. As such, the Blue Oval has a swarm of fresh prototypes out on the road, like this recently spied compact crossover - leading us to ask, is this the new Baby Bronco?
Continue reading for the full story.
Ford’s “Baby Bronco” Will Be Little More Than a Re-Bodied Focus
Despite a strong move towards more crossovers and trucks, Ford isn’t ditching all the good stuff its got going with its line of sedans. The latest is that the Blue Oval’s upcoming “baby Bronco” will take its underpinnings from the Focus four-door.
Continue reading for the full story.
Ford Teases Shelby GT500, Bronco, And Two New SUVs
Ford just released an extended outline of its product plan for the next few years, including a good deal of info on its line of SUVs, trucks, and off-roaders. The release also gives us a preview of the Mustang’s battery-assisted future, not to mention a slew of shadowy teaser images that includes a glimpse at the front end of the new Shelby GT500.
Continue reading for the full story.
A Ford Everest Raptor is in the Works; Could Lead to a Bronco Raptor
First, there was the Ford F-150 Raptor, then came the Ranger Raptor, but if Australia’s Drive.com is to be believed, Ford might have an Everest Raptor in the works. The Everest, the three-row SUV version of the Ranger, would theoretically be easy to give the Raptor treatment. Both the Ranger and Everest share similar frames and suspensions, along with the forward second of the cab.
So, what spurred this theory? No less than Ford Performance’s head engineer, Jamal Hameedi, in fact. He told Drive, “There’s no reason [we wouldn’t do an Everest Raptor],” he said.
Continue reading for more information.
Trucks & SUVs Are The New High-Dollar Collectables
Antique vehicle prices are a good indicator as to how popular and culturally esteemed a vehicle has become over the decades. While Ferraris, Porsches, and other exotics can pull seven-figure bids at auction, they’re old news. These days, classic pickup trucks and SUVs are exploding in value – especially those with exceptionally low miles and all its factory-supplied parts. A perfect example of this just rolled across the Barrett-Jackson stage in Vegas this past weekend. Check out this 1989 Ford Bronco.
This two-door SUV didn’t need a reserve to push its price skyward; it saw an organic auction end with the winning bid of $40,700. That’s a 146-percent increase over its original MSRP of $16,526! That same money would have bought 2.5 Broncos back in the day.
There are two factors for this Bronco’s high bid: one, yes, SUV and pickup prices are beginning to rise dramatically and two, this Bronco was practically perfect. It only has 1,606 actual miles, still rides on the original Goodyear Wrangler tires, has zero damage, and has tons of factory options. Making it even more special is its listing as a “promotional vehicle.” It was likely used by Ford for marketing purposes, perhaps at auto shows or advertising, and bought by a collected rather than being sold to the general public. We’ve got more information on this true survivor down below.
Continue reading for more information.
Ford WD-40/SEMA Cares Boosted Bronco
We’re a little over a month away from the opening of the 2017 SEMA Auto Show, and as you might expect from my favorite auto show of the year, the show offerings are going to challenge your imagination. This early, we’re already getting previews of some of the projects we’ll see at SEMA, one of which is this beauty of a retro classic. It’s called the Ford WD-40 SEMA Cares Boosted Bronco, and it looks nothing like O.J. Simpson’s White Bronco. To be clear, this is the OG 1966 Bronco, the first-generation version of a model that would last five generations and, arguably, one of the most infamous Ford SUVs in history.
This particular Bronco may not have the history attached to it. But it is the subject of a collaborative work undertaken by Aaron Vaccar of The Vaccar Co. and household chemicals company WD-40, the makers of the famous lubricant of the same name. Not much in the way of details have been revealed at this point, but we do know that this piece is a legitimate one-off creation that features design and color details that are inspired from WD-40. The treatment isn’t unlike what we’ve seen from WD-40, which has a history of supporting SEMA Cares over the years. Some of its past creations include a Ford WD-40 Mustang and a Dodge Challenger WD-40 that was created with the help of Chip Foose. The Ford WD-40 SEMA Cares Boosted Bronco will be in attendance at SEMA where it will eventually be auctioned for charity. All the proceeds from the auction will then be sent to a few organizations, including Childhelp, an organization that provides important services to abused and neglected children, and the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarship help to students who are entering the aftermarket world of the auto industry.
Continue after the jump to read more about the Ford WD-40 SEMA Cares Boosted Bronco
"Pawn Stars" Steer Clear Of O.J. Simpson’s White Ford Bronco
By now, a lot of us probably know of Pawn Stars, the hit show from The History Channel that gives us a close look at the wheelings and dealings of Rick Harrison and his pawn shop-owning family. The show itself has given us plenty of unique items and moments over the years, but recently, a peculiar piece of Americana made an appearance on the show: O.J. Simpson’s 1993 Ford Bronco.
Yes, the same white Ford Bronco that Simpson was riding in during the infamous highway police chase in 1994 was being offered to Harrison by its owner, Mike Gilbert, O.J.’s former sports manager. Gilbert bought the car from O.J.’s former NFL teammate, Al (AC) Cowlings, the man behind the wheel during the police chase through Los Angeles. Not one to turn down arguably the most iconic Ford SUV of all time, Harrison welcomed Gilbert to his shop to talk about the SUV, even going so far as to take the SUV for a spin around the block. While Harrison did eventually admit that the Bronco was still in fantastic condition and could command millions in an auction, its provenance as having been involved in a double murder case, Simpson’s acquittal notwithstanding, made it very difficult for him to stomach purchasing it. He ultimately rejected Gibson’s offer of $1.3 million for the car, presumably saving himself the headache of having a car drenched in an infamous episode of American history in his inventory.
Continue after the jump to read the full story.
Anonymous Ford Engineer Leaks Juicy Details about the Ford Bronco
The 2020 Ford Bronco has been (unofficially) confirmed as a four-door SUV based on the upcoming 2019 Ford Ranger pickup and will be powered by the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 matched with robust off-road capabilities like 19.5 inches of water fording – all for a price starting around $30,000. The information comes from a Ford engineer who spoke to Gear Patrol on the condition of anonymity. The insider also divulged some telling truths about the Bronco’s revival, including that Ford is now starting the third design phase for the iconic SUV, having not been satisfied with the first two because it “looks too much like the Wrangler.” Typically, vehicles only get a single design phase before being pushed into production.
The Bronco’s correlation to the Jeep Wrangler isn’t surprising since Ford used the Wrangler Unlimited as its benchmark in off-road capability, save for its rock-crawling abilities, claims the Ford insider. “If you’re familiar with the Ford Troller, out of Brazil, that’s the basic concept, but it’ll look like a four-door version of that,” the engineer told Gear Patrol. A two-door version isn’t happening because Ford doesn’t think it would sell. Power will come from “something like” the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6. In the 2018 F-150, that EcoBoost makes 325 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque – respectable numbers in a Wrangler-sized SUV. Sadly, the engineer says the Bronco won’t be the hard-core off-roader many are hoping. Rather, it’s designed primarily as a comfortable on-road, family-friendly SUV, though sprinkled with off-road hardware. When asked about a Raptor version, the insider said, “it’s not even in the works yet.”
Continue reading for more information.
Fan Forum Renders Four-Door Ford Bronco
Remember the Bronco rendering that took the Internet by storm nearly a year ago? Well, the same folks behind it have now rendered a four-door version of Ford’s upcoming SUV. Bronco6g.com is a forum site dedicated to unearthing rumors and compiling speculation on the heavily anticipated, sixth-generation Ford Bronco. While nothing official has surfaced regarding the Bronco’s design, Bronco6g’s artwork has become the unofficial face of what’s expected in 2020.
What’s more, the new renderings show the Bronco’s backside and possible rear tire carrier. Insider information also suggests the Bronco will have removable roof panels. Called the “Air Roof,” the system is similar to the Jeep Renegade’s MySky roof, which allows for open-air driving and in-vehicle storage of the panels.
But wait, Ford never built a four-door Bronco. Why start now?That’s a truthful statement and a good question. However, looking at history, it’s clear that four-door SUVs out-sell their two-door counterparts. The Jeep Wrangler JK is the foremost example. Jeep Wranglers and CJs all came with only two doors until 2007 when Jeep launched the Wrangler JK Unlimited. Since then Wrangler sales have skyrocketed, with the four-door Unlimited version accounting for roughly 80 percent of total sales. As for the Bronco, Ford has said it will ride on the Ranger T6 platform, which is also coming to America by the end of the decade. The Ranger is obviously offered with four doors, so why not capitalize on the platform and build an SUV with more interior space and the propensity to lead sales?
Continue reading for more on the 2020 Bronco rendering.
Baloney: Ford Bronco, Ranger Getting Solid Front Axle
Word is circulating the rumor mill that both the 2019 Ford Ranger and the 2020 Ford Bronco will have solid front and rear axles, making both the only light-duty contenders outside the Jeep Wrangler to use such a suspension setup. The news comes from Automotive News, which reported famed axle maker Dana confirmed both Ford products will use its “AdvanTEK gear technology.” AN then made the assumption this means solid axles. There’s only on problem…
It’s not true.
What is true is Dana has indeed been selected as Ford’s axle provider for the Ranger and Bronco. What isn’t true is the solid, beam-style design. Dana’s AdvanTEK gear technology is indeed used in solid axles, but is also used in independent suspension systems, as well. See, AdvanTEK is a gear technology, not a particular style of axle. Dana markets the AdvanTEK brand as “delivering more miles per gallon, enhanced vehicle performance, and maximum durability for the complete spectrum of light vehicles.”
Further more, solid axles are good at two things: off-roading and being extremely strong. Conversely, solid axles are not so great at on-road driving. Ever heard of the Jeep “death wobble?” While the Bronco and Ranger would benefit tremendously off-road with a solid front axle, the on-road trade-off is far too great for Ford to okay the idea. What’s more, Ford has confirmed the U.S.-spec ranger will be based off the T6 global Ranger. That pickup uses an independent front suspension design. And since the Bronco will be based off the U.S.-spec Ranger, it too will have an independent front suspension.
Keep reading for the rest of the story.
Upcoming Ford Bronco Won’t be a Rebadged Everest, Ford Says
The 2017 Detroit Auto Show brought plenty of exciting vehicle launches, but perhaps the most talked-about vehicle wasn’t even present – the Ford Bronco. Ford however, did confirm the Bronco was coming for the 2020 model year and that it will ride on the same ladder-frame chassis as the mid-size Ranger Pickup, which is also coming to the U.S. for 2019. Sad speculation soon surfaced about Ford simply rebadging the Everest three-row SUV and calling it done. Now we can report Ford has officially debunked that claim.
New news comes from Autoline, who interviewed Ford executive vice president and CTO Raj Nair on camera. Nair spoke directly and without reserve about the Bronco and its construction and relationship with the Ranger pickup.
“This new Bronco will be based off the Ranger platform and so it’s going to be a similarly sized vehicle to what you see in the Ranger,” Nair confirmed. “Now, for our American customers who have never seen that global Ranger, it’s a bit bigger than the Ranger we used to have here in the U.S., so I would say it’s kind of in-between in what you saw with that really big Bronco and then the smaller Bronco.”
The two Bronco sizes he’s referring two are the original Jeep-sized Bronco sold from 1966 through 1977 and the F-150-based Bronco sold from 1978 through 1996.
Thankfully, Ford isn’t just reworking the Everest SUV for the U.S. market. “No, it’s a separate vehicle,” Nair said. “It will be an incremental vehicle from the Everest. The Everest kind of serves a lot of off-road capability; maybe the space the Explorer serves here in the U.S., but with a body-on-frame construction with a lot more off-road capability for the rest of the world. This Bronco is completely unique from that Everest. It is body-on-frame and so again, focusing on that off-road capability.”
While the Everest is a great SUV with impressive capability, it would overlap the Ford Explorer’s market here in the U.S., just as Nair mentioned. Introducing such a vehicle would be redundant. Rather, the Bronco will be its own vehicle. What’s more, Nair even named the Jeep Wrangler as one of its competitors. Perhaps this means Ford will develop a dedicated off-road machine that’s actually worthy of the Bronco name.
Now if Ford would just add a Raptor package, the world would be complete.
Continue reading for more information.
Bronco & Ranger Confirmed! Ford to Revive Icons in U.S.
Ford has officially announced the Ranger pickup and Bronco SUV will indeed return to the U.S. after an extended absence. The confirmation was all but expected as word of the vehicles’ return has long been rumored. Ford has not revealed any major vehicle-specific details, but the production timeline was announced.
Ford says the Ranger will fall into the mid-size pickup category and be “incredibly capable yet fun to drive.” It will hit showrooms for the 2019 model year, meaning Ford will debut the pickup in the coming year. Joe Hinrich, Ford’s president of The Americas, said this about the Ranger. “[The] Ranger is for truck buyers who want an affordable, functional, rugged, and maneuverable pickup that’s Built Ford Tough.”
As for the Bronco, Hinrich says, “[the] Bronco will be a no-compromise midsize 4x4 utility for thrill seekers who want to venture way beyond the city.” It will arrive in showrooms for the 2020 model year and will be classified a mid-size SUV.
Though no other information was given, it’s easy to speculate about Ranger and Bronco. Both vehicles will be built at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. This means they will likely share a good majority of parts, including their platform, engines, transmission, and interior.
Since Ford is sure to use a body-on-frame design for the Ranger, it would make sense for the Bronco to ride on the same underpinnings. Combine that with Hinrich’s words about a no-compromise mid-size 4WD utility for thrill seekers, and the suspicion of a body-on-frame SUV is undeniable. Perhaps Ford has the Jeep Wrangler in its sights.
Possible powertrains include the F-150’s new 3.3-liter V-6, the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6, and hopefully, the new 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel. Perhaps Ford will also include the new 10-speed automatic transmission, as well.
Continue reading for more information.
Ford Bronco and Ranger Will be Built in Michigan; Confirmation Thanks to... Donald Trump?
Love or loath him, Donald Trump has seemingly squeezed great news out of Ford Motor Company. Trump’s harsh and frequent remarks on Ford’s relocation of small-car production from Michigan to Mexico has pushed the automaker to divulge secret company plans on reviving the Bronco SUV and Ranger midsize pickup for the North American market.
Yep, Ford is bringing back the Bronco and Ranger. Trump aside, that’s news we can all get behind. The news comes from the chairman of the UAW local 900, Bill Johnson, in speaking with the Detroit Free Press.
Johnson is quoted as saying, “We hate to see the products go to Mexico, but with the Ranger and the Bronco coming to Michigan Assembly that absolutely secured the future for our people a lot more than the Focus does.”
Wow, clear as day, Johnson confirms Ford is indeed reviving the Bronco and Ranger. His further comments on securing the future for UAW workers also makes perfect sense. The Focus, a low-profit margin vehicle, is moving to Mexico to make room for high-profit margin SUVs and trucks. The Ranger will complete Ford’s F-Series lineup, spanning from the midsize segment up to the Class 7 medium duty commercial segment. The Bronco, on the other hand, will be one of four new SUVs Ford is debuting. These four SUVs likely include at least one model that’s no destined for North American sales, but rather will fall under Ford’s global arm.
Regardless, Ford is indeed bringing back two iconic nameplates. It remains to be seen what design and capability direction Ford will take the Bronco, but we highly suspect the Ranger will be a U.S.-spec version of the global Ranger already on sale around the world.
We expect Ford to make an official announcement or (even better) a debut of either product in the coming months. Auto show season is upon us, and timing is running out before the end of the decade. Will Ford debut the Bronco and/or Ranger this year? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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2020 Ford Bronco
After being in production for over three decades, the Bronco went down in the history books as one of the most hardcore SUVs that mankind had ever seen. The SUV was developed as an off-roader to take on the Jeep CJ-5, and it succeeded to a large extent. However, the company decided to put down the model in 1996 to make way for a newer lineup. Purists and enthusiasts hoped the model would make a comeback, and after 20 years, we finally got to know the Bronco is indeed being reincarnated with the original namebadge! Even after this announcement, we have painfully waited for years to hear more about the upcoming Bronco. Rumours and speculations kept pouring in, but finally, Ford announced the all-new Bronco is set for a 2020 Spring launch. Will the new Bronco set the world on fire, or will it turn out to be a lacklustre product relying on the original product’s credibility?
Rod Hall Preps for his 50th Baja 1000 run with Restored Bronco: Video
Rod Hall is preparing for his 50th running of the Baja 1000 – the grueling off-road race that treks across 1,000 miles of unforgiving Mexican desert territory. However Hall isn’t building some one-off custom truck from scratch. He pulled his championship-winning Ford Bronco from the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame in Reno, Nevada.
Hall has achieved more podium finishes than any American off-road racer and is the only person to competed in every single Baja 1000 event since 1967. Those are indeed staggering achievements.
The Bronco has an equally thrilling story. After taking an overall win at the 1969 Baja 1000, it was sold, raced, resold, and then sadly ended up in a junkyard in Southern California. Thankfully a race fan with a sharp eye found the Bronco and saved it from its fate. The Bronco then sat in front of a Denny’s restaurant for a number of years. The Bronco was then donated in 2003 to the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame.
Now with the 2016 Baja 1000 approaching in November, Hall and his build team have began restoring the Bronco to its former glory. Ford caught wind of the story and sent over a Ford Racing engine. Other companies like BFGoodrich, Mastercraft, KC HiLiTES, Fox Racing, and Summit Racing have also joined the action with donated parts.
We will certainly be keeping up with Hall and his historic Bronco as the Baja 1000 looms closer.
Ford Fan Site Renders Sixth-Gen Bronco!
Rumors have been swirling with growing intensity that the Bronco will be among four new SUV Ford will release before 2020. With that in mind, Bronco fans at Bronco6G.com created a rather realistic rendering of what Ford might have coming.
Bronco6G says they fused together styling cues from previous generation Broncos, as well as the 2004 Bronco concept truck. The front grille, headlights, and fenders are unmistakably from the first-generation SUV – a model that saw showrooms between 1966 and 1977.
Rearward, the two-door SUV carries an all-original look, though the long side glass and squared-off fender openings recall Broncos of the past. Modern touches like large wheels, somewhat low-profile tires, LED lighting elements, and an electric recovery winch all bring the honest SUV into the 21st century.
While the rendering is merely an idea of what direction Ford might be taking, Bronco6G does claim insider knowledge that Ford has purchased a Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited for benchmarking purposes. If that’s true – which is easily believable – the sixth-generation Bronco will surely be a competent off-roader with chops liken to the Wrangler Rubicon.
That means the Bronco will ride on a fully boxed, ladder frame with an traditional 4WD system that includes a two-speed transfer case, a solid rear axle and an electronic locking rear differential. What’s more, Ford is likely to borrow these parts from its F-150 parts bin, helping save development time and production costs. If that’s the case, the Bronco will certainly be a tough truck. Oh, and of course, it will wear an aluminum body.
Powertrain options are open to Ford’s vast array of engines. If the Bronco is indeed a two-door SUV, the F-150’s 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 should provide more than enough power. Ford may offer the 3.5-liter EcoBoost as an optional powerplant, perhaps in an SVT version further into the Bronco’s production cycle.
Then again, all this is just rumor, guesstimation, and hearsay. The sixth-generation Bronco might never get off the ground, it might be a unibody crossover, or in fact, it could be similar to this rather awesome rendering. Nicely done, Bronco6G.
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The United Automobile Workers and Ford Motor Company have reached a future strategy agreement that include $10,000 signing bonuses for UAW members, the creation, or at least retention, of 8,500 jobs, and a $9 billion investment in new U.S. products, two of which include the Ranger midsize pickup and Bronco SUV.
Now UAW members must vote on the tentative plan.
This is the latest and most concrete news in the rumor mill surrounding the Ranger and Bronco – two vehicles that have been the topic of heavy speculation for more than a year.
The UAW and Ford have been in negotiation over what vehicles will replace the Focus and C-Max cars at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant once production of the two cars are moved to Mexico.
According to the Detroit Free Press’ unnamed source, production of the Focus and C-Max will move to Mexico in 2018 and Ranger production will start shortly after that, with the Bronco following sometime before 2020.
At this point, there are still no details on the Ranger and Bronco. Many suspect Ford will adapt the U.S.-spec Ranger from its global Ranger platform, with updated in the powertrain, safety, and body and interior designs. The Bronco is speculated to be a rebadged version of Ford’s Everest SUV, itself an SUV version of the Ranger pickup.
However, such an SUV could clutter Ford’s SUV lineup and provide unwanted competition to the Explorer. Perhaps Ford will stick with the Bronco’s roots and build a more rough-and-tumble SUV with Jeep Wrangler-like characteristics.
Regardless of which way Ford goes on the Bronco, it seems the two iconic Blue-Oval nameplates are ripe for resurrection.
Continue reading for the full story.
The United Automobile Workers and Ford Motor Company have reached a future strategy agreement that include $10,000 signing bonuses for UAW members, the creation, or at least retention, of 8,500 jobs, and a $9 billion investment in new U.S. products, two of which include the Ranger midsize pickup and Bronco SUV.
Now UAW members must vote on the tentative plan.
This is the latest and most concrete news in the rumor mill surrounding the Ranger and Bronco – two vehicles that have been the topic of heavy speculation for more than a year.
The UAW and Ford have been in negotiation over what vehicles will replace the Focus and C-Max cars at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant once production of the two cars are moved to Mexico.
According to the Detroit Free Press’ unnamed source, production of the Focus and C-Max will move to Mexico in 2018 and Ranger production will start shortly after that, with the Bronco following sometime before 2020.
At this point, there are still no details on the Ranger and Bronco. Many suspect Ford will adapt the U.S.-spec Ranger from its global Ranger platform, with updated in the powertrain, safety, and body and interior designs. The Bronco is speculated to be a rebadged version of Ford’s Everest SUV, itself an SUV version of the Ranger pickup.
However, such an SUV could clutter Ford’s SUV lineup and provide unwanted competition to the Explorer. Perhaps Ford will stick with the Bronco’s roots and build a more rough-and-tumble SUV with Jeep Wrangler-like characteristics.
Regardless of which way Ford goes on the Bronco, it seems the two iconic Blue-Oval nameplates are ripe for resurrection.
Continue reading for the full story.
It appears Ford’s watchful eye on the revival of the midsize truck market has determined there is room for the Ranger after all. Yep, after four years without a U.S.-spec Ranger, the Blue Oval is currently (and more openly) discussing the possibility of bringing back the compact truck. What’s more, the Bronco SUV is being mentioned as well.
The discussions are taking place between Ford and the UAW, with the union seeking promises on job security at the Michigan Assembly Plant. The plant currently builds the Focus and C-Max, both of which are scheduled to be relocated to another manufacturing facility after 2018. Ford now needs something to fill the gap and the business case for a less-expensive, more fuel-efficient truck is growing.
In order for the Ranger to work, the truck would have to cost $5,000 to $6,000 less than the F-150 and get 30 percent better fuel economy, according Ford’s truck group marketing manager, Doug Scott. That means the Ranger would have to have a base price of roughly $21,000 and get nearly 28 mpg combined.
If Ford didn’t start with a fresh design, the automaker would have to modify the current global Ranger to meet U.S. emissions and safety regulations. General Motors did the same with the 2015 Chevy Colorado and 2015 GMC Canyon trucks, both of which are loosely based off the global Colorado.
On the Bronco side, reports suggest the Bronco would be a midsize, body-on-frame SUV perhaps based on the Ranger. Again, Ford already has this vehicle in production in Thailand for sale in markets across the globe. Called the 2015 Ford Everest, the SUV would compete with Jeep in offering a competent off-roader.
If the Ranger and Bronco get the green light, expect them for the 2019 model year.
Continue reading for the full story.
If you got a new Xbox One for the holidays, or you picked up a copy of Forza Horizon 2, Microsoft has a present for you. A new DLC pack of cars titled the G-Shock Car Pack is now available, and it might be one of my favorite packs yet. The pack comes with six cars for $5, and like all good Forza updates it has a nice selection of cars for various types of racing. There are two bargain performance cars from the modern era with the Mazdaspeed 3 and Nissan’s IDx Nismo concept, and there are a pair of off-road warriors with the SVT Raptor Shelby and the 1975 Ford Bronco. The last two cars are special in their own way, and they are both considered cult classics: the Subaru Brat GL and the 1953 Ferrari 500 Mondial.
What makes this pack so great for me is the sheer collection of wildly different cars. The Mondial is one of the few four-cylinder Ferraris ever made and the Nissan IDx Nismo is one of the most interesting concept cars to show up in years. I also love the wild insanity that is driving the Subaru Brat and the Ford Bronco across the European countryside in Forza Horizon 2.
Like all previous car packs, this is only available for the Xbox One version. It is available right now.
Click past the jump to read more about Forza Horizon 2’s new G-Shock Car Pack.
Happy Thursday, everybody. We made it to the incredible milestone of five (5!) episodes. It may not seem like much, but it is our first step towards world Podcast domination. Also, for reasons that I can’t really explain, we spend a lot of time at multiple points in the podcast discussing the Ford Bronco. So, yeah.
In this week’s episode, Mark, Justin and myself find ourselves rambling about the Hyundai Equus, Mistubishi Lancer GT and the Ford Flex Ecoboost in the Weekly Wheels segment.
For the big news stories of the week, we cover the shenanigans that transpired over April Fool’s Day, and slowly built into a horsepower war. We begin with the BoldRide created Jeep rally hatchback, then we move to the deliciously powerful rumor of a Jaguar F-Type Club Sport. Moving the horsepower even higher, we talk about the rumored 700-horsepower SRT Challenger Hellcat, and finish the insanity with some talk of the 2,000-horsepower Trion Nemesis. There is a bit of talk about the current legal dustup with Ferrari and fan’s Facebook page, as well.
For the Q&A segment, we field a pair of great questions from you guys. The first involves our thoughts on the success of super-cheap superminis, like the Dacia, and if we think they would work in the states. Our second question involves our ability to maintain a critical viewpoint when dealing with cars or brands that we hold a certain loyalty to.
Both great questions that lead to some interesting discussion.
We finish with the new Own, Drive, Burn segment where we argue over the merits of the classic mud-slingers of the International Scout, Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco.
Make sure to keep all those comments, questions and suggestions coming. You can hit us up here in the comments, reach us on Twitter using our new podcast account @TopSpeedPodcast or you can reach us via email: Podcast@TopSpeed.com
Thanks for hanging with us for five episodes, everyone!! See you next Thursday.
Hosts: Christian Moe, Justin Cupler, Mark McNabb
Weekly Wheels: Ford Flex, Mitsubishi Lancer GT, Hyundai Equus
As automotive journalists, we see a lot of varying racecars and racing trucks, so only a few actually make us do a double take and think “what the…” Well, the 2011 Ford “Bronco” Trophy Truck is one of those vehicles that we just cannot walk away from.
This beast was built by Marshall Madruga in honor of the classic road-racing truck, the “Big Oly.” This off-road racing version of the “Big Oly” made its debut in 2009 at the Off-Road Expo in Pomina, CA. It also made a cameo in the Bilstein booth at SEMA, in 2009 and has been in a few magazines, including DirtSports, Off Road, and Bronco Driver.
So why is this important to you? Well, the 2011 Ford Bronco Trophy Truck has just popped up for sale on Ebay. To boot, this truck is even registered as street legal in the state of California.
So how realistic is it to drive this pickup on the road? Check out the full review to see if this is a feasible mode of transportation, or just eye candy to take to the dunes every now and again.
Hit the jump to read the full review.
The Ford Bronco was first launched onto the market in 1966 where it reveled in 30 years of production, until being discontinued in 1996. But after 15 years of non-existence, the Bronco was brought back with a specially customized unit at the 2011 SEMA Auto Show.
The tuned-up Ford Bronco is the product of Jonathan Ward and famous Ford designer, Camilo Pardo’s hard work. The two men wanted to maintain the original Bronco’s classic aesthetic and design values, while also reinventing everything about the car down to the smallest details.
The Icon Bronco uses a 2011 Ford Coyote 5.0 liter V8 engine that delivers a total of 412 HP and 390 lb-ft of torque, more than doubling the original Bronco’s output of 200 HP. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission and an Atlas II part-time four-wheel drive system.
And just like any other modern SUV, the Icon Bronco has been equipped with bucket seats with carbon fiber elements, tinted glass, a laser-cut stainless steel door, and cargo panels with Volcanic Black powder coated trim bezels.
