Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Menu

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

Reading time 9 Min.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The unique one Ford Bronco is about to make its European debut: Customers will soon be able to order the latest generation of the US off-road legend in selected countries. The robust all-wheel drive vehicle comes across the Atlantic in strictly limited quantities and in two model variants, which stand out from each other with their own body details. The Outer Banks version appeals to hardcore off-road fans, while the Bronco Badlands caters specifically to extreme off-road touring. Both have a 2,7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers 246 kW (335 hp)* and maximum torque of 563 Newton meters. State-of-the-art drive technologies such as a short off-road ratio, "Trail Control" and seven driving modes ensure that it rightly bears its nickname "GOAT": The abbreviation stands for "Goes over any Terrain" and means something like "No terrain suits him too difficult". The Bronco Outer Banks is available in Germany from €74.500, the Badlands version is available from €78.500.

the Ford Bronco in Europe

Ford has the current issue of the Bronco rethought from scratch. Her Body- and interior design picks up unmistakable elements of the 1966 ancestor, but was also inspired by the robust pickups of Ford's successful F-Series and the performance claim of the Ford Mustang. The result is an unmistakable off-road vehicle with a distinctive character, which continues the special history of this series in a modern way.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

In the development of the new Ford Bronco The focus was on convincing off-road talents as well as particularly innovative and practical solutions - such as four removable doors1, which can be easily stowed on board, and integrated attachment points for work or sports equipment. When things get really rough off the beaten track, the ultra-durable components and surfaces are easy to clean afterwards. Depending on the model version, Ford also offers a special range of accessories, such as neoprene covers for the seat covers, storage bags for the doors and a soft mesh top.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

"Like no other model, the Bronco symbolizes Ford's special sense of freedom and adventure," emphasizes Jon Williams, Managing Director of Ford Blue Europe. “It combines the latest drive technology with an inspiring, intelligent design. After a 25-year break, we were able to ignite a wave of enthusiasm with the new model in America that we could hardly have imagined in this form. Now we are happy to be able to let European customers enjoy this special Bronco spirit for the first time.”

The new Ford Bronco wants to continue its success story in Europe

With its powerful proportions and iconic silhouette, the first Bronco generation was already a symbol of special performance, fun driving and freedom. To ensure that these attributes characterize the new model as well, the Ford designers scanned and digitized the characteristic contours of the original version in their original size. The result is compact body overhangs and distinctive shapes that interpret the unmistakable appearance in a modern way and underline the special off-road capabilities of the new Bronco.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The cubic basic concept of the body, for example, ensures that the driver can better assess the Bronco's external dimensions - a clear advantage, especially when maneuvering in demanding terrain. In this sense, the so-called "trail visors" on the front fenders act as dipsticks. Practically, these black plastic elements also serve as fastening elements, for example to lash surfboards or canoes to the roof. They can withstand tensile forces of up to 68 kilograms2 stand.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The standard hardtop consists of four easily removable parts. They each have a sound-absorbing headliner that improves noise comfort while driving. The two front elements can be stowed directly on board. Also the four doors1 can be dismantled in favor of a special fresh air experience and an even better overview on off-road tours. With a special tool, this can be done in just eight minutes. Thanks to their frameless design, they weigh little and can be safely stowed in the vehicle in tailor-made storage bags and easily transported.

The robust plastic fender flares are conveniently screwed on. In this way, they can be replaced quickly and without further damage after contact with others in the field. The radiator grille extends across the entire width of the vehicle and is framed by two circular main headlights. Just like the front bumper, it can be easily removed and exchanged for other variants - for example to give the Bronco a more individual appearance.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The standard equipment of the new Bronco also includes so-called "Easter eggs" - small but fine details that the Bronco owner may only discover over time. For example, this could be graphics that refer to the original model from 1966, a bottle opener integrated into the interior, or the GPS data of those places and regions in which the developers subjected the model to special tests.

"When re-creating the Bronco, we put a lot of effort into preserving the authenticity of this lineup, right down to details like special embossing for bolt heads," said Paul Wraith, Ford Bronco chief designer. “We wanted to make sure our customers could enjoy that special Bronco experience. It doesn’t matter whether it’s on their everyday journeys or on a detour into the wilderness.”

Built for tough challenges, ready for any task

With its ability to pave the way off the beaten path, the Bronco series quickly earned the nickname "GOAT" - an abbreviation for "Goes over any Terrain" or in German "No terrain is too difficult for him" and at the same time an allusion to the mountain goat, which likes to climb and is sure of its terrain. The new model follows in exactly these footsteps.

The 2,7 liter EcoBoost petrol engine provides the basis for this on the drive side. With dual turbocharging and intake manifold direct fuel injection, it delivers 246 kW (335 hp). The maximum torque reaches 563 Newton meters. The efficiency of the engine and the driving performance benefit from an electronically controlled boost pressure valve and high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. The cylinder block of the V6 engine is made of compressed graphite iron. Compared to conventional cast iron constructions, it is more rigid without having to accept any disadvantages in terms of weight.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The standard 10-speed automatic transmission impresses with its pleasant shifting comfort both on and off-road. In the shortest low-range off-road ratio of 64,33:1, the Bronco feels its way at 2.500 rpm at 6 km/h - this makes driving through particularly rough terrain easier and reduces the risk of the engine stalling.

As befits a real off-roader, the new Ford Bronco has a two-stage transfer case. The Outer Banks model is an electronically controlled system that allows off-road gearing to be activated while driving at the push of a button. An electro-mechanical variant is used in the Bronco Badlands. Depending on the road conditions, it automatically activates pure front or all-wheel drive. The transition is seamless and hardly noticeable, the driver can fully concentrate on the road ahead. Furthermore, a lockable front differential and a system with which the front anti-roll bar can be decoupled in favor of better traction further increase the off-road capabilities.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

The new Ford Bronco rests on a box-shaped chassis made of high-strength steel with a total of seven cross members and is characterized by high torsional rigidity. At up to 259 millimeters, the spring travel is particularly long and thus provides a further basis for the vehicle's outstanding off-road characteristics.

The Bronco Badlands also features high-spec, position-sensitive Bilstein shocks from the factory. They are characterized by an external additional reservoir for the hydraulic fluid. Advantage: It provides additional cooling when the dampers are subjected to intensive stress, while the damping forces automatically increase when the spring travel is fully utilized. This enables improved suspension comfort on and off paved roads.

Ford Bronco: Built to be strong

To protect sensitive vehicle components from damage when driving in difficult terrain, Ford offers an additional underbody protection package for the Bronco. In addition to a front shield, it includes an oil pan guard and other plates that cover not only the engine but also the transmission, rear axle drive shafts and fuel tank. The optionally available side protection can absorb the full weight of the vehicle when it comes into contact with rocks. Sturdy towing hooks at the front and rear are standard equipment. The roof bar made of high-strength boron steel accommodates the integrated head-window airbags. Side airbags in the seat backrests and front airbags for the front occupants complete the safety package.

Off-road technologies that support every adventure trip

In off-road use, state-of-the-art assistance functions ensure that not only off-road professionals but also less experienced newcomers can experience the potential of the new Bronco. The focus is on the Bronco's Terrain Management System. With a total of seven GOAT riding modes, it always has the right program ready for practically any condition. The "Normal", "Eco" and "Slippery" modes are primarily intended for everyday road use. "Mud", "Sand" and "Stony" as well as the "Baja" program specially designed for sporty off-road driving are added for trips to off-road parks, for example. They influence the response of the steering and the accelerator pedal as well as the shifting strategy of the 10-speed automatic transmission.

Ford has bundled other highly developed off-road vehicle assistance functions for the new Bronco in a "Trail Toolbox". "Trail Control", for example, is similar to a cruise control system: at a preselected speed of up to 31 km/h, the electronic system automatically takes over braking and acceleration off-road - the driver can fully concentrate on steering. "Trail Turn Assist" minimizes the turning circle by up to 40 percent by applying the brakes to the wheels on the inside of the curve to influence the torque distribution. With "Trail One-Pedal-Drive", the Bronco can be accelerated and braked with just the accelerator pedal: as soon as the driver lifts the vehicle, the vehicle decelerates sharply. In this way, it can be conducted more easily over demanding courses. If the new Bronco acts as a towing vehicle, "Advance Trac" with roll movement control and trailer stabilization ensure a relaxed and safe journey.

Tough on the outside, smart on the inside

Even from the outside, the new Ford Bronco leaves no doubt as to its off-road qualities. The highly functionally designed interior continues this line: It convinces with modern technological functions as well as with a practically indestructible robustness that also withstands use under adverse conditions. The design of the instrument panel takes up characteristic design features of the first Bronco generation, while the color composition is based on natural tones and outdoor equipment. The selected materials are characterized by high durability.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

When it comes to comfort, the Ford Bronco doesn't demand any compromises from its passengers. In addition to an eight-inch TFT display in the instrument panel, the off-roader also has a twelve-inch LCD touchscreen, which forms the basis for the modern Ford SYNC 4 communication and entertainment system. It benefits from the wireless Ford Power-Up function in the long term. It enables updates "over the air" (OTA) and keeps the software of the Ford Bronco up to date without having to visit the workshop. Also particularly practical: the special holder for additional devices on the dashboard is suitable for cameras or cell phones, for example. Corresponding 12 volt and USB connections are provided directly.

A B&O Premium Sound System ensures great musical enjoyment on board3 with ten loudspeakers including a subwoofer. The FordPass app4 enables access to the Internet. Mobile phones can use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto5 be integrated. To facilitate maneuvering in rough terrain, the standard 360-degree camera system shows the remaining free space around the wheels on the central display, which the driver cannot see from his seat.

Ford Bronco: The birth of an icon

  • The first generation of the Bronco was launched in the USA in 1966 and combined the best of two very different worlds: Technically it was based on military vehicles from Ford, while the Mustang contributed to the performance concept. The result was a resilient four-wheel drive model that was fun and set the course for a whole new automotive segment with its sporty attitude.
  • The original Bronco soon proved its robustness and agility in motorsport: in 1969, it won a particularly ruthless off-road competition with the Baja 1000 – a success that no other standard off-road vehicle was able to repeat for more than 50 years. Ford sold more than 200.000 units of the first generation Bronco in the United States. By 1996 and over four further model generations, the total production number exceeded the million mark. The new Bronco rolls off the assembly line at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, North America.

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

Don't worry, of course that was far from being the case when it came to auto / auto tuning. Our magazine still has tens of thousands other tuning reports in stock. Do you want to see them all? Then just click HERE and look around. Or you can read through the following thematically appropriate vehicle reports. Another interesting vehicle is sure to be included.

other related posts

end time vehicle? Ford Bronco 6×6 Dark Horse from Apocalypse!

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

Ford Puma ST Powershift - with 168 hp fully on the attack!

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

Elegance Wheels forged wheels on the Shelby Mustang GT500!

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!

Ford Maverick pickup pays homage to Marty McFly's Toyota!

In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!
In a limited edition: the Ford Bronco is also coming to us!
Photo credit: Ford
"tuningblog.eu" - on the subject of autotuning and car styling, we keep you up to date with our tuning magazine and present you with the latest tuned vehicles from all over the world every day. It is best if you subscribe to our feed and will be informed automatically as soon as there is something new about this post. And of course to all other contributions.

About Thomas Wachsmuth

Thomas Wachsmuth - He has been an integral part of tuningblog.eu since 2013. His passion for cars is so intense that he invests every available penny in them. While he dreams of a BMW E31 850CSI and a Hennessey 6x6 Ford F-150, he currently drives a rather inconspicuous BMW 540i (G31/LCI). His collection of books, magazines and brochures on the subject of car tuning has now reached such proportions that he himself has become a walking reference work for the tuning scene.  More about Thomas

Leave a Comment

Your e-mail address will not be published. Required fields are marked with * marked