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Making its debut in 1965 as the world’s first ever SUV, the Ford Bronco embodied the character of its time and secured its place in history. It was a concrete expression of the growing interest in leisure time and an increased desire for freedom, adventure, and outdoor exploration in the 1960s.
Initially Codenamed Bronco and G.O.A.T. (Go Over All Terrain), this unique car fulfilled aspirations by filling a gap in the market for the much-desired combination of rugged capabilities and comfort. By doing so, Ford has designed a unique vehicle that combined key utility and sports features, and delivered exceptional adaptability, as well as a great on and off-road driving experience.
At its 1966 launch, the Bronco made a dynamic entry into the market in three unique styles. The Roadster, which is a basic and affordable open-air model with removable doors and an optional roof to offer an up close and personal experience with the great outdoors. The Sports Utility, wich was aimed at practicality, this half-cab variant featured a short top, seating for two to three passengers on a bench seat, and a practical pickup bed. The Wagon, which is a family-friendly option boasting a full-length hardtop and seating for up to five with a rear bench seat quickly emerged as a perennially popular choice.
Ford provided an extensive array of options and accessories for these versatile vehicles that could handle any terrain and task. Each model featured the now very familiar two door, boxy-shaped vehicle with round headlights. Under the hood, the Bronco’s power source was a robust 105 hp, 2.7L six-cylinder engine paired with a three-speed transmission and four-wheel drive. A year later, Ford introduced an optional 289-V-8 engine, which significantly increased horsepower and torque, thereby enhancing performance.
Introduced in 1973, the second-generation Bronco brought power steering, automatic transmission, and a new engine into the fold. However, its launch coincided with the oil crisis, leading to the postponement of other planned redesigns.
In 1978, the redesigned F-Series Bronco was successfully introduced, featuring a V8 engine that provided a smoother ride and enhanced passenger comfort, along with options like air conditioning and an AM/FM radio. Sales numbers of this popular model hit an incredible 180,000 within the first two years.
The ongoing fuel crisis shaped the Bronco design in the ‘80s by becoming smaller, lighter, and more fuel-efficient. Following that, the compact Bronco II was introduced, featuring the new Eddie Bauer trim package and a range of technological innovations, including making the Ford Bronco the first in the market to offer independent front suspension.
The late 1980s and early 1990s brought front end aerodynamic updates, electronic fuel injection, and safety features like anti-lock brakes and airbags.
Despite these advancements, the fifth generation, which was produced from 1992 to 1996, signaled the end of the road for the legendary two-door SUV. The Bronco's legacy, however, continued to influence future SUV designs and would leave an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of those who worked on it at Ford – as well as the myriad Bronco lovers who mourned the end of an era and remained steadfast in holding on to the hope of a revival.
A Star is Born
From the very beginning, the Bronco was a beloved choice among automotive experts and enthusiasts. Its distinctive features won their admiration and secured its place as a staple in popular culture. The nameplate’s cultural influence was and is undeniable. The seamless integration of the Bronco into the public’s collective conscience as the go-to vehicle, just as effective for off-roaders, farmers, surfers, and campers as it was for daily commutes, the Bronco established itself as a key element of everyday life.
As did celebrated racetrack appearances. Preceding the Bronco’s public release, legendary racing and off-road driver, car builder, and racing team owner, Bill Stroppe and his legendary partner, Parnelli Jones, were given a Bronco to prepare for a competition. Not long after, they started racing the Bronco, and their modified version, 'Big Oly,' became one of the most renowned off-road racing vehicles in history.
Stroppe’s and Parnelli’s continued success with the Bronco in prestigious races such as the Indianapolis 500, Riverside Grand Prix, Mint 400, and Baja 500 and 1000, including setting a new record at the 1969 Baja 1000, paved the way for the introduction of the high-performance, Stroppe-modified ‘Bronco Baja’ to Ford dealerships across the USA shortly thereafter.
The Bronco has consistently showcased star quality, drawing celebrity owners like three-time NASCAR champion Tony Stewart and making memorable appearances on iconic TV shows over the years. It has also graced the silver screen, making memorable appearances in movies like No Country for Old Men, Terminator 2, Speed, Rampage, The Racing Scene, and Charlie’s Angels, to name but a few.
Community Driven by Passion
The love for the Bronco never waned. The dream of a revival lived on in the hearts of not only the public but a group of diehard Ford employees passionate about the Bronco. The Bronco Underground, as they are affectionately named, saw their dreams eventually materialize with the launch of the Bronco sixth-generation in 2021.
After a 25-year hiatus and a focused campaign that involved designing prototypes, developing business plans, and persistent advocacy, the Bronco made a triumphant comeback at Ford. The story and lasting allure of the Bronco were vividly captured in Ford’s ‘Bring Back Bronco’ podcast, which showcased the cultural zeitgeist that fueled the revival and the profound emotional bond fans have with this iconic vehicle.
Comeback Unbridled
The sixth-generation Ford Bronco made its eagerly anticipated return on July 13, 2020, boasting a family of two-door, four-door, and sports models. The OG SUV made a triumphant comeback, retaining its iconic look, but chock-full of state-of-the-art technology features like the Terrain Management System™ that automatically adapts and optimizes its steering, handling, and powertrain performance in response, enhanced safety features, and a whopping eight driving modes, seven of which are G.O.A.T.™ modes.
Thanks to its powerful engine options, such as the 2.7L EcoBoost generating 310 hp and 542nm of torque and high-mounted air intake, the Bronco boasts best-in-class off-road capabilities, including departure angle, breakover angle, ground clearance, and water fording. The debut of the new Bronco sparked an extraordinary level of excitement, resulting in more than 150,000 reservations within the first three weeks.
Fans, old and new, were impressed with its off-road capabilities and delighted to discover nostalgic hidden features that gave an affectionate and authentic nod to the older generation of Bronco.
Some of those hidden features include circular headlights inspired by the 1965 original, a bucking bronco etched into the LED daytime running lights, and lasso-designed cargo tie-downs. Functional tie-downs on the front fenders also echo the original design. Every bolt in the Bronco is also stamped with the bucking bronco logo and allows for accessory additions.
Nostalgic elements are featured in details such as an ignition button shaped like the Bronco’s iconic headlights, an off-road mode selector that references the Bronco's G.O.A.T.™ modes, and the bucking bronco logo appearing on the steering wheel and gear selector in 10-speed automatic models.
Conquering the Dunes
The Bronco feels right at home in the Middle East where its status is revered as the original and best of the SUVs. With its variety of models, it is equally adept at navigating the region’s tough terrains and sand dunes as it is at handling its wide highways and expansive open roads.
The Outer Banks model combines style with exceptional functionality, making it ideal for navigating the scenic and rugged landscapes of the region. For an iconic 4x4, the Big Bend model, with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine and six G.O.A.T.™ modes, ensures versatile performance across all terrains.
The Badlands model, equipped with Fox Live Valve Shocks, the Sasquatch Package, and robust features, pushes off-roading to its limits, providing exceptional durability and reliability in harsh desert conditions.
A Legacy that Lives On
The Ford Bronco is more than just a vehicle; it's an enduring icon that inspires loyalty to its dedicated following, whether they are falling in love all over again or are experiencing the Bronco for the first time, who appreciate the charm and attraction of this remarkable off-roader.
The Bronco, retaining its iconic look, combines the best of the past in terms of design with the cutting-edge innovations and features Ford delivers in its premium offerings. Overall, the Bronco maintains its status as a top choice for off-road driving, captivating enthusiasts with its combination of classic design and contemporary advancements. For the latest updates in the world of automobiles, both locally and globally, visit the Auto News section.
