The all-new 2021 Ford Bronco was supposed
to debut on March 17 but then the coronavirus storm came, forcing the Blue Oval
to postpone the off-roader’s launch. Ford insists it will lift the veils of the
new Bronco sometime this year and we can only keep our fingers crossed for
that. Until that happens, let’s take a look at the latest batch of spy shots
which show a two-door, short-wheelbase 2021 Bronco prototype undergoing
testing.
Compared to the previous sightings, the
off-roader has ditched its heavy roof camouflage, allowing us to get a clearer
image of its design and proportions – not that the leaked photos and renderings
haven’t done that already. Anyway, the prototype you see in these photos
appears to be outfitted with the rigid roof system, offering a good look at the
rear window and the hinges mounted at the top. Mind you, there’s not much else
to make of the design as the full body wrap keeps everything from sight. Still,
the leaked images from the Ford factory have already provided us with a very
good look at the Bronco’s exterior styling.
Under the boxy body, the 2021 Bronco is
expected to offer two different engines. The entry-level model could feature a
2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder that produces around 270 HP and 420 Nm of torque. Ford is said to also offer an optional 2.7-liter
EcoBoost V6 with approximately 325 HP and 542 Nm of
torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be standard while a Getrag
7-speed manual is said to be available.
As with the Jeep Wrangler which will be
its main rival, the Ford Bronco features a body-on-frame design courtesy of an
updated platform borrowed from the T6 Ranger. Expect serious off-road
capability thanks to a 4WD system with low and high gearing, independent front
suspension, solid rear axle with coil springs and struts, electronic terrain
management, and more.
