There are a few legendary names that come to mind when one thinks of old-school American SUVs, and the Ford Bronco ranks pretty high on that list. Since its inception in 1965, the Bronco has carved out a niche for itself as a rugged and capable vehicle, capable of tackling challenging terrains while providing comfort and style.
It is one of the few cars that managed a super successful comeback after a hiatus of 25 years! The Ford Bronco holds a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, adventurers, and off-road aficionados. In this edition of the DubiCars Car Spotlight, we take a look at the history, generations, and models of the Ford Bronco.
Origins Of The Ford Bronco
After the Second World War, America had become an industrial giant. Ford was one of the car manufacturers involved in the production of equipment for the war effort and after the war, it needed to bounce back. As a result, multiple new products and segments were looked at.
In 1964, the Ford Mustang was launched, becoming one of the most iconic cars of all time. Read all about the . The same people responsible for the creation of the Mustang were also simultaneously involved in developing a new product for a segment Ford had never taken to before — the compact off-road SUV segment.
First Generation | 1965 – 1977
The compact off-road SUV segment was dominated by the Jeep CJ-5 based on the WW II Willys Jeep. Here’s a detailed look into the . Ford wanted to take on the Jeep CJ with their very own off-road SUV and this led to the development of the Bronco.
In 1964, the Ford Bronco was approved for production and it went on sale in 1965. The first-gen Ford Bronco was based on an all-new chassis specifically developed for the SUV. Its size placed it right in between the Jeep CJ-5 & CJ-7, making it attractive to buyers.
It featured a simple yet robust design, with a removable fiberglass roof and a choice of either a hardtop or a soft top. Under the bonnet, one could choose between 2.8-litre inline-6, 3.3-litre inline-6, 4.7-litre V8, and 4.9-litre V8 engine options. With its short wheelbase and nimble handling, the Bronco quickly gained a reputation as a capable off-roader.
Second Generation | 1977 – 1979
In 1977, Ford unveiled the second-generation Bronco, marking a significant evolution in both design and capabilities. This iteration of the Bronco featured a larger and more refined body, and it was based on the larger platform of the Ford F-Series, which offered increased interior space and improved comfort.
The second-generation Bronco also introduced a range of new features and options like power steering and air conditioning. Additionally, Ford offered the Bronco in two and four-door configurations, providing greater versatility for buyers.
Enhanced suspension and drivetrain systems made it even more capable. Older engines were discontinued and the second-gen Bronco was sold only with a 5.8-litre V8 or a 6.6-litre V8. Two new 4-speed manual gearboxes replaced the old 3-speed units.
Third Generation | 1979 – 1986
Building on the success of the second generation, Ford introduced the third-generation Bronco in 1979. This iteration further refined the design and performance of the Bronco. The third-generation Bronco featured a more premium design, with sleeker lines and improved fuel efficiency.
Inside, the Bronco offered a range of modern amenities, including power windows, power door locks, and a premium audio system. Under the bonnet, the third-generation Bronco continued to offer a selection of powerful engines, including the 4.9-litre and the 5.8-litre V8. The inline-6 made a comeback too, but this time, it was a 4.9-litre unit.
The Bronco also received electronic locking differentials, further enhancing its off-road ability. Many regard this as the best of the classic Bronco generations.
Fourth Generation | 1986 – 1991
In 1986, Ford introduced the fourth-generation Bronco, marking another significant leap forward in terms of design and technology. This generation of the Bronco featured a more modern design, with updated styling cues that reflected the trends of the era.
The fourth-generation Bronco also introduced a range of new features and innovations, including fuel injection technology, which improved fuel efficiency and performance. Additionally, features like ABS and skid plates for the rear differential became standard equipment. Ford also introduced push-button control for the 4WD system.
Engine options included a 4.9-litre inline-6, a 4.9-litre V8, and a 5.8-litre V8. Gearbox options included the age-old 3-speed automatic, modern 4-speed automatic units, and a 5-speed manual.
Fifth Generation | 1991 – 1996
In 1991, Ford unveiled the fifth-generation Bronco, with a range of new features and improvements. The SUV featured styling cues that reflected the changing tastes of consumers. It also had modern features such as remote keyless entry, powered mirrors, turn signal indicators integrated into the mirrors, etc.
This generation was powered by the same inline-6 and V8 engines as the previous generation. In the past few years, Ford had observed a decline in demand for large two-door SUVs. Hence, Ford decided to discontinue the Bronco. Instead, the American auto giant launched the full-size Ford Expedition in 1997 as a replacement for the Bronco.
Sixth Generation | 2021 – Present
After a hiatus of nearly 25 years, Ford resurrected the Bronco nameplate with the introduction of the sixth-generation model in 2021. This highly anticipated release marked the return of an icon, with the new Bronco boasting a blend of modern technology and classic styling cues that pay homage to its predecessors.
The sixth-generation Bronco was designed with off-road performance in mind, featuring a rugged body-on-frame construction and advanced four-wheel-drive systems. Buyers can choose from a range of engine options, including an efficient turbo-petrol inline-4 for the very first time. More powerful variants received a twin-turbo V6 engine.
In addition to its off-road capabilities, the sixth-generation Bronco also offers a range of modern amenities and technologies, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and advanced driver assistance features. With its combination of classic styling and modern performance, the new Bronco has quickly become a hit with enthusiasts and consumers alike.
Most Popular Ford Bronco Generations In The UAE
The sixth-generation Ford Bronco gained popularity quite rapidly with hundreds of thousands of units sold globally. Hence, it is unsurprisingly the most popular generation in the UAE. Classic car enthusiasts on the other hand prefer the first, second, and third generations of the Bronco. Here’s how you can register a classic car in the UAE.
Ford Bronco Prices In The UAE
Prices for a new Ford Bronco range from AED 274,995 to AED 405,000 depending on the trim and model chosen. Prices for used sixth-gen Bronco SUVs start from around AED 170,000.
Find new Ford Bronco for sale in the UAE & used Ford Bronco for sale in the UAE.
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