The 2021 Ford Bronco has roared back onto the scene, and it’s not just making noise – it’s turning heads and sparking conversations wherever it goes. Driving through Austin, Texas, in this resurrected legend, the reaction was immediate and palpable. Within moments of hitting the downtown streets, smartphones were out, capturing the Bronco’s bold stance and unmistakable silhouette. Every stop became an impromptu Q&A session: “How much does it cost?”, “When can I get my hands on one?”, “Did I choose the right trim?”. The excitement surrounding the new Bronco is undeniable, and frankly, it’s easy to see why. Ford, after all, essentially wrote the SUV playbook back in the 60s with the original Bronco, the vehicle that arguably coined the term “sport utility vehicle.”
Alt text: Front view of a 2021 Ford Bronco in Lightning Blue Metallic parked on a city street, showcasing its iconic design and rugged appeal.
This isn’t just nostalgia fueling the frenzy. The 2021 Bronco is genuinely impressive, delivering on the promise of both formidable off-road capability and surprisingly refined on-road manners. While the allure of conquering trails is strong, the reality is that even the most adventurous drivers spend the vast majority of their time on paved roads. Therefore, this Ford Bronco Review will delve into both aspects, starting with the off-road prowess that defines the Bronco’s spirit, before examining its everyday usability.
Off-Road Prowess: Built to Roam Any Terrain
Let’s face it, the off-road capability is the heart and soul of the Bronco legend. Buyers want to know that their new SUV can tackle challenging terrains, even if their daily commute is more suburban jungle than actual wilderness. Ford understands this, and the Bronco is packed with technology designed to empower both seasoned off-road veterans and weekend adventurers alike.
The centerpiece of this off-road arsenal is the G.O.A.T. Modes system. Paying homage to the original Bronco’s internal codename, “Goes Over Any Type of Terrain,” these modes are more than just a catchy acronym. With up to seven distinct settings, including Rock Crawl, Mud/Ruts, and Sand, the G.O.A.T. Modes intelligently optimize the Bronco’s systems for the specific challenge at hand. Switching modes orchestrates a symphony of adjustments, from the electronic front- and rear-differential lockers and 4×4 settings to the steering response and throttle control. Essentially, the Bronco’s onboard computer takes command, fine-tuning every electronically adjustable parameter to maximize traction and control, making off-roading significantly more accessible and manageable.
Alt text: Close-up view of the 2021 Ford Bronco’s front wheel and suspension, highlighting the robust off-road components and aggressive mud-terrain tire.
Beyond the G.O.A.T. Modes, Ford has incorporated innovative technologies that might raise an eyebrow among purists but prove incredibly effective in practice. Trail Control, for instance, functions as a low-speed cruise control specifically designed for off-roading. Allowing drivers to set speeds in increments as precise as half-MPH, Trail Control manages throttle and braking, freeing the driver to focus solely on steering through tricky obstacles. Similarly, Trail One-Pedal Drive simplifies low-speed maneuvering by merging throttle and brake control into a single pedal, much like in an electric vehicle. Press to accelerate, release to brake – a surprisingly intuitive system that streamlines complex two-pedal techniques often required in challenging off-road situations.
Alt text: Interior view of the 2021 Ford Bronco’s dashboard, showcasing the G.O.A.T. Modes selector and user-friendly controls designed for off-road driving.
One of the most ingenious features is Trail Turn Assist. Engage this, crank the steering wheel to its limit, and the Bronco intelligently applies a brake to the inside rear wheel. This seemingly simple action dramatically tightens the turning radius, allowing the Bronco to navigate exceptionally tight trails and switchbacks. It’s a testament to Ford’s innovative approach to off-road technology – a blend of clever engineering and electronic control that enhances capability without sacrificing the raw, adventurous spirit of off-roading.
While some hardcore off-road enthusiasts might initially scoff at the technological augmentation, features like push-button 4×4 engagement and drive mode selection ultimately democratize off-roading. They make the Bronco’s impressive capabilities more accessible to a wider range of drivers, encouraging exploration and adventure. And in our book, anything that lowers the barrier to entry for enjoying the great outdoors is a welcome development.
On-Road Refinement: Comfort and Composure on the Pavement
Impressive off-road credentials are a must for the Bronco, but its on-road performance is equally, if not more, critical. Let’s be realistic; the vast majority of Broncos will spend their lives ferrying families, tackling grocery runs, and navigating daily commutes. Therefore, a comfortable and composed on-road experience is paramount for everyday usability.
Alt text: Side profile of the 2021 Ford Bronco driving on a paved road, illustrating its surprisingly stable and comfortable on-road handling.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of Jeep Wranglers, the Bronco’s closest competitor, I can confidently say the Bronco is at least on par, and arguably surpasses the Wrangler in on-road refinement. Even with substantial 35-inch off-road tires and a suspension system engineered for rugged terrain, the Bronco exhibits remarkably little body roll in corners. While there’s a slight nose dive under hard braking, it’s significantly less pronounced than in many other off-road-focused vehicles. This translates to a more planted and confident feel on the road, especially at highway speeds.
The interior of the Bronco is thoughtfully designed, prioritizing both functionality and user-friendliness. While the seats could benefit from a touch more cushioning for long journeys, and the start/stop button placement is slightly awkward, the overall layout is intuitive. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, and storage solutions are plentiful, accommodating everything from everyday essentials to weekend adventure gear. Ford has clearly invested significant effort in creating an interior that is both ruggedly stylish and genuinely practical for daily use.
Alt text: Interior of the 2021 Ford Bronco showcasing the spacious cabin, user-friendly infotainment system, and ample storage space.
For the on-road evaluation, a Lightning Blue Metallic four-door Bronco in the fully loaded First Edition trim was selected. This limited-edition model, now sold out, represents the pinnacle of the Bronco lineup, encompassing every available option at a price of $63,210. However, the Bronco range is remarkably diverse, starting with the base model at a compelling $29,995. This broad spectrum of trims and options ensures there’s a Bronco configuration to suit a wide range of budgets and needs.
The First Edition includes the coveted Sasquatch package, an off-road-centric upgrade that, unlike the Jeep Wrangler’s similar offerings, is available across the entire Bronco trim range. The Sasquatch package is a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts, adding 35-inch mud-terrain tires, electronic-locking front and rear axles, enhanced suspension, and Bilstein shock absorbers. This means that even a relatively basic two-door Bronco, when equipped with the Sasquatch Package (and the mandatory Advanced 4×4 option), transforms into a highly capable off-roader for around $38,025.
Alt text: A 2021 Ford Bronco with the Sasquatch package, emphasizing its increased ground clearance, large mud-terrain tires, and off-road ready stance.
Comparing this to the Jeep Wrangler, achieving similar off-road capabilities necessitates spending upwards of $41,000, and even then, 35-inch tires are not a factory option. Jeep is responding with the new Xtreme Recon package for the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, which will include 35-inch tires, but it’s expected to be significantly more expensive than a comparable Bronco Sasquatch. This escalating competition is ultimately beneficial for consumers, driving innovation and providing more choices for off-road enthusiasts.
Alt text: Rear view of a 2021 Ford Bronco highlighting its distinctive taillights, spare tire mount, and rugged rear bumper design.
Ford’s return to the off-road SUV segment is undoubtedly shaking things up, prompting Jeep to innovate and further refine its Wrangler. As a Ford representative aptly stated during a Bronco briefing, while perhaps not entirely fair, there’s a grain of truth in the assertion that Jeep hasn’t faced this level of direct competition in decades.
It’s crucial to differentiate the 2021 Ford Bronco from its smaller sibling, the Ford Bronco Sport, which is based on the Ford Escape platform. The early launch of the Bronco Sport has unfortunately led to some confusion, with many mistakenly associating it with the full-fledged Bronco. However, the two are distinct vehicles catering to different needs and preferences. The Bronco Sport is a capable and stylish compact SUV, but the Bronco is the true off-road warrior, the reincarnation of the legendary original.
Alt text: A 2021 Ford Bronco driving through a scenic off-road trail, demonstrating its off-road capabilities and adventurous spirit.
Production of the 2021 Ford Bronco has commenced, and vehicles are beginning to reach dealerships. However, due to high demand and pre-existing reservations stretching well into 2022, acquiring a new Bronco might require patience. Interestingly, it’s suggested that orders for lower-trim models might be fulfilled sooner than those for the top-tier, feature-rich editions, potentially due to ongoing semiconductor shortages impacting the availability of advanced technology components.
Conclusion: The Bronco is Back, and it’s Better Than Ever
After a 25-year hiatus, the Ford Bronco has not just returned; it has triumphantly reclaimed its position as a force to be reckoned with in the off-road SUV segment. This Ford Bronco review concludes that the hype is indeed justified. The 2021 Bronco delivers on its promise of exceptional off-road capability, complemented by a surprisingly refined on-road driving experience. It’s a vehicle that seamlessly blends iconic heritage with modern technology, appealing to both hardcore off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers seeking adventure and versatility. The wait has been long, but the new Ford Bronco proves to be well worth it.
