The legendary Ford Bronco has returned. After 25 years since the nameplate was retired and nearly half a century since the final early Bronco rolled off the line in 1977, Ford revived the Bronco for 2021 with a design that honors its roots while offering modern capability and refinement. This new Bronco aims to deliver authentic off-road performance without compromise.
I once owned a 1970 Bronco and remember its raw character vividly — a three-on-the-tree shifter later moved to the floor, basic five-point belts, a loud 302 engine with aggressive exhaust, and large 35-inch tires. The 2021 Bronco channels that same adventurous spirit but with contemporary engineering, safety, and comfort.
Styling cues from the early Broncos are clear and intentional, yet the new model doesn’t feel like a retro copy. Instead, it blends classic design language with modern proportions and technology to create a vehicle that looks period-correct while functioning as a fully capable contemporary SUV.
Ford offers the Bronco as a two-door or four-door off-road-ready SUV, plus the Bronco Sport — a softer, city-friendly variant with competent off-road ability for occasional backcountry trips. In this piece, the focus is on the rugged off-road Bronco and what makes it a serious contender against long-standing rivals like the Jeep Wrangler.
Ford teased the Bronco for months, building substantial anticipation. The result lives up to expectations: it’s not a cosmetic exercise but a purpose-built off-roader designed to satisfy the growing community of four-wheel-drive enthusiasts.
Below are key highlights that illustrate why the Bronco stands out.
35-Inch Tires
One of the most obvious features is the massive 35-inch tires available as standard equipment on the Wildtrak, Badlands, and First Edition trims. For comparison, the Jeep Rubicon often runs on 33-inch tires, so the Bronco’s 35s are notably larger. These bigger tires increase ground clearance and improve obstacle traversal — essential benefits for serious off-roaders — though they can slightly reduce fuel economy and on-road performance. For many enthusiasts, the trade-off is worth it for the added capability.
EcoBoost Power
The 2.7-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 is the engine many buyers will prefer. It produces around 310 horsepower and a class-leading 400 lb-ft of torque, making the Bronco impressive for towing and hauling. With towing capability near 3,500 pounds and a payload capacity over 1,300 pounds, the Bronco is well-suited for overlanding rigs, rooftop tents, and gear-loaded adventures.
Crawl Mode
The Bronco includes an off-road crawl control system that functions similarly to other makers’ crawl modes. It maintains a steady low speed so the driver can concentrate on steering and line choice rather than throttle modulation. This system is particularly useful on technical trails and steep descents.
Drivers can choose from multiple selectable drive modes — including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand — plus off-road-focused settings like Baja, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. These modes adjust traction control, throttle response, and drivetrain settings to optimize performance in diverse conditions.
Unobstructed Sky View (No Crossbar)
Ford engineers eliminated the traditional crossbar that sits across the roof in many removable-top SUVs, delivering a clearer sky view and increased headroom while keeping structural integrity and safety intact. This design choice enhances the open-air experience for owners who remove the roof panels or doors for warm-weather driving and off-road excursions.
That crossbar in rival models often limits interior space and feels like a cosmetic compromise; removing it makes the cabin feel larger and improves the overall open-air experience.
There are additional features worth noting, such as the large touchscreen infotainment system, integrated off-road mapping, and an interior that balances rugged durability with thoughtful design. But beyond specs, the Bronco’s real appeal is the way it combines heritage styling with modern functionality for outdoor-minded drivers.
The 2021 Bronco debuts with seven different trims, a wide palette of eye-catching colors, and more than 200 factory-backed accessories to personalize your build. With a starting MSRP around $29,995, Ford has positioned the Bronco to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from weekend adventurers to dedicated off-roaders. Reservations opened with a modest deposit, and demand has been strong.
