The new-car market brims with SUV choices, most of which ride on car-based, unibody platforms meant for pavement. Precious few have serious off-road chops, Jeep’s Wrangler and Land Rover’s Defender among them. The all-new, body-on-frame Bronco (not to be confused with Ford’s unibody Bronco Sport) joins that elite group.
It’s available with rock-crawling necessities such as bash plates, locking axles, lifted suspension, and an advanced 4WD system. The Bronco’s top—and its doors—are removable. Drain plugs in the floors enable an owner to hose out the interior. Hard plastics, durable upholstery, and simple controls define the Bronco.
But the dirty little secret is that most Broncos will never get very dirty. Smitten with the Bronco’s rugged aura, many owners will use them only as daily drivers. The Bronco has responsive steering, a tight turning circle, and a high seating position for an expansive outward view—all good for negotiating urban traffic.
But the Bronco’s fuel economy is poor (premium fuel recommended), it’s noisy on the highway, and while the ride isn’t kidney-hostile, it is quite stiff. Never mind. The Bronco is utterly charming, and buyer demand is ... well, through that removable roof.
