Ford Bronco Concept - Revisit from the Past

Revisit from the Past

"True to its heritage, the Bronco concept is a tough, genuine SUV that's all about function"

- J Mays, Ford Motor Company group vice president of design.

 

The new Ford Bronco Concept builds on the legend!

As the development of new 4x4's has been in the direction of more comfort and civilization a revisit from the rugged past comes as a fresh breeze. At the North American International Auto Show this year Ford introduced a new concept Bronco.

The look is definitely cool and reminds us of the legendary old Bronco of around 1970. But what about the hardware?

There are a few noteworthy features of interest for us off-road enthusiasts!

• The new small 2.0 liter 16 valve turbo diesel engine with intercooler should prove economical. The Duratorq TDCi engine delivers 128 hp and 331 Nm (244 foot-pounds) of torque.
• The engine even has a three second nitro oxide boost, adding extra 50 horsepower and even more torque.
• The new six-speed PowerShift transmission changes gears by opening and closing a single clutch, the PowerShift operates by shifting power from one clutch to another for better efficiency and more seamless shifting. It can be placed into manual mode at anytime and operated by a pair of shift paddles on the steering wheel like they use in Formula 1 racing.
• The weight of only 1.4 tons is ideal for off-roading and should give the wrangler some competition. The weight reduction is due to simplicity in design and the use of lighter materials in the interior.
• A new intelligentTM four-wheel-drive system engages the rear wheel automatically depending on constant checking on traction.

 

Ford Bronco Concept - Conclusion

The biggest concerns I have about the new design is it's use of Ford Escape technology. The Ford Escape is in my opinion only a toy and not a real 4x4. The drive train is too weak, just like a family car.

I would like to see the the new Bronco modified for 36" or 38" tires. How can I lift it? Then there is the concern that the wheels of 18 inches might indicate that my preferred size of 15" could mean some modifications to the brakes.

Good work Ford, now go and produce it so I can try it out!