The 2021 Ford Bronco is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated SUVs in years and now we’re learning more about it.
Car & Driver has deep dive on the all-new model and they report it will be instantly recognizable and very Jeep-like. The overall styling will echo the Bronco R prototype and the publication says we can expect a squared-off hood, a Bronco-branded grille and circular headlights. The latter were leaked not long ago and the assembly also appears to have LED turn signals and an LED light ring.
Elsewhere, we can expect a rear-mounted spare tire and wheels that can be wrapped in massive 35-inch all-terrain tires. Two- and four-door variants are in the pipeline and they’ll have a removable hardtop just like the Wrangler.
Also Read: Ford Bronco R Prototype Unveiled, Hints At Upcoming Production Model
While the Bronco clearly cribs from the Jeep playbook, Ford has reportedly made some improvements to the basic design. The side mirrors are slated to be mounted to the A-pillars, so they’ll still be there once the doors are removed. The doors are also slated to be easier to remove than the ones on the Wrangler and a patent has suggested they could come with removable inner door bars.
We haven’t heard much about the interior, but that’s changing today as the publication says we can expect a durable cabin that can withstand the elements. In particular, one engineer told Car & Driver that some components – such as the power seats – will be waterproofed.
There has been plenty of speculation that the Bronco will feature a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine but, at the unveiling of the Bronco R prototype, officials suggested there would be a more powerful twin-turbo mill. C&D is shining some light on this issue as they’re reporting the 2.3-liter EcoBoost will likely serve as the base engine.
Ford F-150 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6
The four-cylinder is the only option on the US-spec Ranger and it produces 270 hp (201 kW / 274 PS) and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque. It will likely carryover for use in the Bronco, but customers will reportedly able be to opt for a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 that develops around 325 hp (242 kW / 330 PS) and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of torque. This makes sense as it’s in line with the Bronco R comments and the engine is already available on the F-150.
Speaking of the powertrain, the engines will reportedly be paired to a ten-speed automatic transmission. However, a manual could also be in the works. If the model does indeed get a stick, it would be one of the few SUVs with a DIY gearbox.
Ford has already confirmed the Bronco will ride on modified version of the T6 architecture which underpins the Ranger, but C&D says the SUV is envisioned as “more of a high-speed desert runner than a low-speed rock crawler.”
Given this focus, the model will reportedly have an independent front suspension and a live rear axle with leaf springs. To appease the hardcore crowd, there could be a rugged variant with a limited-slip front and locking rear differential. This particular model could also adopt an anti-roll bar with an electronic disconnect.
While a lot remains unknown, we’ll find out full details soon enough as the Bronco will be unveiled this spring.
