It really doesn’t feel like Ford debuted the new Bronco all that long ago. But remarkably, we’re approaching its fourth model year in production, and that means Ford’s neo/retro off-roader is about due for a mid-cycle refresh. The next-gen model — which should offer the first all-electric version — may not arrive until 2029, but the carmaker will certainly have a few tricks up its sleeve to keep the iconic off-roader fresh until then.
Here’s what we know about Ford’s Bronco refresh plans so far.
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Will the 2025 Ford Bronco get a hybrid?
A new hybrid powertrain may be the most significant change for the refreshed Ford Bronco. Ford has not confirmed this is happening (unless you count Jim Hackett’s assertion from last decade). But leaks about a hybrid Bronco date nearly to the initial model launch.
Motor Trend, for one, expects the Bronco to get a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The site projects it will be the 2.3-liter EcoBoost PHEV that Ford has confirmed for the Ranger in other markets. We don’t have the full specs on that engine yet, but it will put out more than 443 lb-ft of torque and deliver a claimed 28 miles of electric-only range.
Adding a hybrid Bronco would support Ford’s recent pivot to hybrids as EV sales have slowed. A hybrid may also become a competitive necessity. Jeep has the Wrangler 4xe. And Toyota may soon have hybrids in the Tacoma, Land Cruiser and potentially the new 4Runner.
Expect further streamlining of the Bronco lineup
Ford has made a bug push with vehicles like the new 2025 Explorer and the new 2024 F-150 to reduce production costs by curtailing the number of buildable configurations. We’ve seen Ford do some of that with the Bronco already: reducing complexity with equipment packages, eliminating the base model and making the 12-inch touchscreen standard across the board.
We expect Ford to continue streamlining in the upcoming refresh. Though there hasn’t been any indication of what that will entail or how extreme Ford is willing to go. For example … will the company axe the manual gearbox from the lineup?
When will the refreshed Ford Bronco arrive?
Ford has not confirmed a launch date for the new Bronco yet. Automotive News expects the refreshed Bronco to arrive sometime in the second half of 2024, which would likely be for the 2025 model year.
That said, it could come a little bit later. It’s possible that Ford could time the refresh (or perhaps delay the hybrid) to have something to launch for the Bronco’s 60th anniversary; the first-generation model entered production in August 1965 for the 1966 model year.
How much will the refreshed Ford Bronco cost?
We don’t expect a dramatic departure from the Bronco’s current pricing. Ford already eliminated the base model for 2024, and the now entry-level Big Bend starts above $40,000 with the destination and handling charge factored in.
A hybrid Bronco would likely be more expensive than a gas Bronco. We would guess that it starts in the neighborhood of the Wrangler 4xe (a little above $50,000) and tops out below $80,000, which could allow it to be eligible for a federal tax credit.
FordFord Bronco
Pros
- Intuitive and supremely capable off-road vehicle
- Independent front suspension for better on-road ride
- A ton of accessory options
Cons
- No hybrid option for better fuel economy
- Not the most luxurious interior
- Road noise
