Ford of Europe is in the midst of a restructuring that will see the company eliminate of a number of MPVs and focus on crossovers.
While the automaker has promised to give Europeans a “niche portfolio of iconic models” imported from aboard, there will apparently be one notable absence – the highly-anticipated Bronco.
During today’s second quarter earnings presentation, the automaker revealed the upcoming Jeep Wrangler competitor will be offered in North America, Africa and The Middle East. If that wasn’t bad enough, the Baby Bronco – officially referred to as the “Small, rugged off-road utility” – doesn’t appear destined for Europe either. Instead, the presentation shows the crossover will only be offered in North and South America.
Interestingly, the slide doesn’t show either model will be offered with a hybrid powertrain. This is a tad surprising as the company had previously confirmed a Bronco Hybrid in 2018. At the time, Ford said they were embarking on an “all-in push on hybrid-electrics to bring new capability and features to customers on high-volume, profitable vehicles like F-150, Mustang, Explorer, Escape and Bronco.”
We’ve reached out to Ford for clarification, but it could be just a matter of timing. The slide is titled “Winning Portfolio – 2019 And 2020” and this could suggest the Bronco Hybrid won’t arrive until 2021 or later. If that’s the case, it could also open the door to Bronco / Baby Bronco availability in Europe at a later date.
Regardless, pictures of the Baby Bronco slipped out of Ford’s dealer meeting last year. They showed the crossover will be significantly more rugged than the Escape / Kuga as the model features slab-sided styling and meaty off-road tires. The crossover also has a relatively flat roof and a squared off grille with prominent ‘Ford’ badging.
Also Read: 2021 Ford Bronco Could Have A 2.3-Liter EcoBoost Four-Cylinder Engine
The standard Bronco will be launched in 2020 and will reportedly be powered by a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. It will likely have a retro-inspired design as well as removable doors and a roof.
Update: We heard back from Ford and the company said the “presentation stands as it is.” As a result, it appears the Bronco and Baby Bronco won’t be headed for Europe – at least anytime soon.
