The Ford Bronco is back after an absence of nearly 25 years. That’s an eternity in the automotive world, but the wait appears to be worth it as there is still tons to talk about even after months of extensive leaks.
With that in mind, we decided to take a look at some of the Bronco’s coolest and somewhat obscure features.
Built With Modifications In Mind
During last week’s technical briefing, Ford officials revealed customers will likely spend thousands of dollars modifying their Broncos. To help them spend that cash, the SUV is launching with more than 200 factory-backed accessories for “maximum personalization.”
While it’s one thing to offer an assortment of aftermarket components, it’s another thing to actually install them. Thankfully, Ford took this into consideration and made the Bronco extremely easy to work on. For example, the fender flares can come off in matter of seconds. The Blue Oval also said the model has a “Lego-like” design and components can easily be swapped in and out.
Dashboard Mounting Bar
Automakers are paying more attention to smartphones, but most companies call it quits at a wireless charger and Android Auto / Apple CarPlay. That leaves drivers turning to an assortment of suction cups and air vent clips to hold their phone.
Ford has given this a lot of thought, so they created a “bring-your-own-device rack” which resides above the dashboard. It’s designed to hold smartphones and GoPro cameras, and this should make recording your next off-road adventure a breeze. The automaker also went a step further and made 12-volt power connections easily accessible so you don’t have cords running all over the cabin.
You Can Go Topless
When developing the Bronco, fans told Ford there was a few things the model absolutely needed. One of them was a removable roof.
Thankfully, Ford responded by giving the Bronco a modular hardtop which comes off in sections. Two-door models have three (front right, front left and rear), while four-door models have an extra panel over the rear seats.
The panels can be removed by one person via latches in the cabin. Likewise, the rear quarter windows can be taken off in “three easy steps – snap, push and lift away.” The doors can also be easily removed and stored onboard in four-door models.
Trail Maps
When you’re off-roading, typical vehicle navigation systems aren’t very helpful. Ford wanted to change that so they developed an off-road navigation system which features more than a 1,000 curated trail maps.
The company tapped NeoTreks for their AccuTerra Map database and Ford describes the result as a “game-changer” for the off-road community. It’s also worth mentioning the maps are accessible offline, which is a good thing because cell reception can be spotty in the wilderness.
It’s A Real Bronco And A Wrangler Competitor
Years ago, there were rumors the Bronco would be little more than an Everest designed for the U.S. market. Thankfully, that isn’t the case as the Bronco embraces the spirit of the original without being too retro.
The model is also interesting, innovative and a legitimate Jeep Wrangler competitor. The latter is long overdue and it’s about time as Jeep has gotten greedy. In particular, they want $2,750 for an eight-speed automatic transmission and extra for air conditioning on the two-door Wrangler Sport.
With a new competitor on the horizon, Jeep has something to think about and will reportedly make previously optional equipment standard. This is great news for consumers as there’s more choice and, in all likelihood, better value.
