The Ford Bronco, an iconic name in the world of off-roading, has finally landed in the Philippines. This arrival is nothing short of monumental for local enthusiasts. Introduced in 1966 and spanning five generations before being discontinued in the mid-90s, the Bronco has always been a symbol of rugged freedom. Now, with its sixth-generation revival in 2021, the Bronco makes its debut in the Philippines in the Outer Banks guise.
Ford Philippines has recognized the burgeoning off-roading community in the country, and what better way to cater to this market than by introducing a legend? The new Bronco shares its robust T6 platform with the Ford Ranger and Everest, albeit with significant modifications to ensure it stays true to its roots. This SUV is here to challenge the Jeep Wrangler, bringing a much-needed rivalry to the segment.
The first thing that strikes you about the new Bronco is its imposing presence. Its boxy design and macho aesthetics are a nod to its heritage. The 5-door body is both practical and commanding, making it a perfect fit for both urban jungles and off-road trails. The removable hard top and doors add a sense of adventure, allowing drivers to experience the elements in a way few other vehicles can offer.
The Bronco’s exterior is further enhanced by LED headlights that provide excellent visibility, especially on those moonless nights in the wilderness. The 17-inch Black High Gloss Aluminum wheels with Alloy Beauty Ring and beadlock-capable functionality, paired with massive 35-inch tires, make a bold statement. These are complemented by Position-Sensitive Bilstein Shock Absorbers, ensuring the Bronco can handle the roughest terrains with ease.
In the metal, the Bronco looks even more substantial than it does in photos. Despite being shorter than the Everest, it’s wider and taller, perfect dimensions for off-roading. Ford has successfully retained the Bronco’s “Bronconess,” and I can’t help but admire its rugged charm.
Step inside, and the Bronco’s interior continues to impress. The leather seats in Dark Space Gray and Navy Pier exude a sense of rugged luxury. The driver’s seat is a 10-way power adjust, while the front passenger seat offers 8-way adjustments, ensuring comfort for both driver and passengers on long journeys.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a 12-inch touchscreen loaded with SYNC 4 and Voice Recognition, offering seamless connectivity and control. Whether navigating through city streets or uncharted territories, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 10 speakers ensures an immersive audio experience. The boxy design also translates into a spacious interior, providing ample headroom and legroom for all occupants.
Safety is paramount in the new Bronco, and Ford has equipped it with the latest in safety technology. The Ford Co-Pilot 360 system includes a suite of features designed to keep you safe. The 360-camera provides a bird’s eye view of your surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces a breeze. Adaptive Cruise Control takes the stress out of long drives, while the Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert ensures you’re always aware of vehicles around you. The Lane Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking further enhance safety, giving you peace of mind.
Under the hood, the Bronco is powered by a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, the sole option available in the Philippines. This is no compromise, as this engine delivers a robust 330 horsepower and 555 Nm of torque, making it the most powerful engine option before the V6-powered Bronco Raptor.
Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Bronco offers smooth and responsive shifts. The Advanced 4×4 system with On-Demand Engagement and electronic front and rear differential lockers ensure the Bronco is ready for any challenge. The GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) Modes offer preset drive modes tailored to various terrains.
Priced at P4,998,000, the Ford Bronco Outer Banks with the Sasquatch Package sits comfortably between the range of its main competitor, the Jeep Wrangler. Considering it is imported from the US, this price point is just right. It positions the Bronco as an appealing option for those looking for a blend of performance, heritage, and modern comforts.
The arrival of the Ford Bronco in the Philippines is more than just the introduction of a new vehicle; it’s the beginning of a new chapter in the country’s off-roading narrative. With its blend of classic appeal and modern technology, the Bronco is set to conquer not just the trails but also the hearts of Filipino enthusiasts. The legend of the Bronco lives on, and it’s ready to create new stories on the rugged landscapes of the Philippines.