Maybe the Ford Bronco is Targeting the Jeep Wrangler After All
Sources indicate Ford is using the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as a benchmark vehicle for its new Bronco SUV.
The Bronco-related latest rumors come from Gear Patrol, citing a Ford engineer closely involved with the project. According to the anonymous source the new Bronco is already in its third design phase, when only one is typical for a vehicle’s development. “They just commissioned another design study, because they feel it looks too much like a Wrangler,” the source said. But to give you an idea of the direction Ford is heading, the person referenced the Ford Troller (seen above), which is only sold in Brazil. But you’ll have to imagine a four-door version of the Troller, as Ford believes there’s no market for a two-door model.
SEE ALSO: New Ford Bronco Reportedly Not Targeting Jeep Wrangler
The new Bronco will have a removable modular roof that comes off in three sections, and the American automaker is wanting it to be comparable to the Wrangler in every way, except rock crawling. As for a high-performance Raptor version, that’s not even in the works yet.
As for the powertrain, Ford is expected to use something similar to the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine used in the Ford Fusion, generating around 325 horsepower. There’s even discussions about a possible hybrid variant. For now, Ford is aiming to keep pricing around the $30,000 range when it releases in 2020.
[Source: Gear Patrol]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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i'm relieved there's no V8 option, old tech, would be exciting to see it as all electric. No V8's on mars.
Late on this, but wish there was going to be a 2-door version - hell, I'd even take that Troller shown (looks nice). I don't need or want 4-doors, and I want a short wheelbase with a tight turn radius. Oh well, guess I'll stick to my VehiCROSS and Jeep TJ for now...