There’s been a lot of talk lately about the Bronco and whether Ford is bringing it back or not. While it’s all speculation at this point, we can’t help but wonder what this beloved SUV would look like with a modern Ford twist. But what made the Ford Bronco such a hit and why is it a big topic now? Is it the few truck concepts Ford has shown? Let’s explore a bit of history and look at the concept vehicle that got people talking.
The original Ford Bronco was conceived in 1966, and it was Ford’s response to the Jeep CJ-5 and International Harvester Scout. Unlike other Ford vehicles of the time, the first Bronco was built on its own platform and it was marketed as an off-road vehicle exclusively. The first version was powered by an inline-six engine with a 2.8 liter displacement. Ford found some success with the first model and slowly added more engine options, like the 4.7-liter Windsor V8 and its 4.9-liter sibling.
Bronco gained new enthusiasts when it entered off-road races like the Baja 500 and Mint 400. It even got a special racing edition trim, the “Baja Bronco,” which featured an automatic transmission, a roll bar, upgraded bumpers, and a unique blue, red, white and black paint.
Starting with the second generation Bronco, Ford began using a shortened version of the F-Series chassis, which gave the company more versatility. Ford kept improving the Bronco, with full redesigns on years 1978, 1980, 1987 and 1992.
In 1996, in front of a 95 million television audience, the Ford Bronco became part of American history, as the LAPD chased O.J. Simpson through the streets of Los Angeles. Later that year, Ford announced the discontinuation of the popular SUV, to be replaced by the four-door Expedition.
Eight years later, at the 2004 North American International Auto Sow, Ford announced a Bronco concept vehicle. Ever since the announcement, Bronco fans rejoiced and welcomed the idea of a new Bronco. However, plans were allegedly dropped when the 2013 Ford Escape was revealed.
After the first concept, fans in online communities and forums have speculated if there is ever going to be a new Ford Bronco. Some went as far as saying the new model was scheduled for 2015 or 2016, but the company has kept quiet.
Since the Bronco was a small to medium size SUV, it would be logical it could share Ford Explorer’s or F-150’s platform. We would definetly welcome the idea of a 2016 Bronco and would gladly show it at Lamarque Ford. Stop by the dealership today or visit us online to view our full inventory.
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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.
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