It has been a long time coming, but the wait is worth it. That wait involves the revived Ford Bronco, an all-new model released in 2021.
We were not able to drive the new Bronco in 2021, but we did test drive its crossover sibling, the Ford Bronco Sport. While the Sport is underpinned by the same platform as the Ford Escape, the Bronco is a traditional body-on-frame sport utility vehicle along the lines of the Jeep Wrangler. Indeed, the Wrangler is the new Bronco’s chief competitor, with the Toyota 4Runner a less significant rival.
As for this writing, this is our first day with the Bronco, with a week left to put it through the paces. As such, we are devoting this article to covering the Two-Door Outer Banks Edition version, our test model. To that end we offer the following information about it:
The current Ford Bronco launches this model’s sixth generation. We haven’t seen a Bronco since the 1990s, therefore its re-introduction is a big deal. Importantly, this model is a true off-road focus SUV. It is offered in two- and four-door configurations and remains faithful to its rugged mission.
Standard Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine
The standard engine for the Bronco is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine. This one has an output of 275 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque with regular fuel. If you prefer premium fuel the performance output rises to 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque.
Also available is a 2.7-liter turbocharged V6 engine. This one makes 315 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque with regular gasoline. Opt for premium fuel and the numbers bump up to 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines work with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Bronco is fitted exclusively with four-wheel drive.
Special Editions
How do you want to dress your Bronco? You can take it in Base trim or you can opt for various permutations. These include Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Wildtrak editions. New for 2022 is the Everglades trim followed by the Bronco Raptor, the latter arriving this summer. It is doubtful that any buyer will settle on a Bronco without opting for the various trim and package upgrades.
As for prices, they start at $30,800 and climb well above $50,000 at the top end. Destination, taxes, and registration fees are extra.
Breaking Down the Outer Banks
The Outer Banks trim comes with several special features, including body-color painted fender flares, leather-wrapped seats, and a 12-inch capacitive touch screen.
Further, the Outer Banks edition builds on all the features of the Big Bend series. It comes with a terrain management system, six drive modes, 18-inch black-painted machined-face aluminum wheels, and 32-inch all-terrain tires.
Our test model added a $3,590 High Package. This group includes a 360-degree-view camera, luxury package, adaptive cruise control, and a B&O audio system with navigation. A heated steering wheel and a wireless charging pad complete this equipment group.
Among the options included with our test model is as follows: cyber orange metallic tri-coat paint for $595. Also, a rear locking differential for $795. A cargo area protector nets $120, while keyless entry comes in at $110. The roof rails go for $395, while the leather interior adds $2,195.
Therefore, the breakdown for this model includes the $38,955 base price. Add in a destination and delivery charge of $1,495. The total options package is $7,770. The out-the-door price for our sample model came in at $48,220.
Looking Ahead
We have so much more to share about this model, therefore consider this article a primer. We will follow up with more photos, including the roof and doors removed. Lastly, we will head out to find some rigorous off-road trails to put this rugged SUV through the paces.
See Also — Raptor, the Ford Truck Performance Brand
Photos copyright Stumpwater Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved.
