What replaced the Ford Bronco?
The Ford Expedition largely replaced the Bronco as Ford’s flagship full-size SUV after the original Bronco was discontinued in 1996.
When Ford retired the classic Bronco in 1996, the company shifted its emphasis to a larger, more family-friendly full-size SUV: the Ford Expedition, which arrived for the 1997 model year. The Explorer continued to serve the mid-size SUV market, while the Bronco nameplate would later be revived in 2020 as a distinct, off-road–focused model. This article lays out how the replacement happened in the 1990s and how the Bronco’s modern revival fits into Ford’s current lineup.
Replacement in Ford's lineup (the 1990s)
Key players in Ford's post-Bronco era and how they fit together in the SUV lineup:
- Ford Expedition (introduced for the 1997 model year) — the direct successor to the Bronco’s full-size SUV niche, offering three-row seating and rugged capability.
- Ford Explorer — continued to occupy the mid-size SUV market, providing a different size and balance of utility compared to the Expedition.
- Other Ford trucks and SUVs — including updates to the F-Series, which provided robust work-ready options but did not replace the Bronco as a passenger SUV.
In practical terms, Ford shifted its emphasis to the Expedition for large, family-friendly, off-road-capable SUVs, while the Explorer absorbed the mid-size segment. The Bronco II line, which had existed earlier, did not directly replace the original Bronco.
Modern revival and current lineup
Beyond the historical replacement, Ford later revived the Bronco name as its own modern, off-road-oriented model. This section highlights how the revival fits into Ford’s contemporary SUV strategy.
- Bronco revival (introduced for the 2021 model year) — a new generation of the Bronco returned as a separate, dedicated off-road SUV rather than a direct continuation of the original 1966–1996 model.
- Two- and four-door configurations — designed for serious off-road capability with removable doors and roof options.
- Contemporary technology and powertrains — modern Turbocharged and EcoBoost engine options, improved terrain management, and advanced traction control features.
- Coexistence with Expedition and Explorer — the revived Bronco adds a rugged, off-road-focused option to Ford’s SUV family rather than replacing the Expedition or Explorer.
The revival demonstrates how Ford reimagined the Bronco as a standalone brand-positioned model while the Expedition remains Ford’s flagship full-size SUV and the Explorer continues in the mid-size segment.
Summary
Historically, the Ford Expedition replaced the Bronco as Ford’s main full-size SUV when the Bronco was discontinued after the 1996 model year. The Explorer remained the mid-size option, and the Bronco nameplate was revived in 2020 as a modern, off-road–focused model that sits alongside, rather than replaces, Ford’s existing SUV lineup. Together, Expedition, Explorer, and the revived Bronco form a diverse family that covers large, mid-size, and off-road niches.
Is Ford discontinuing the Bronco?
No, Ford is not discontinuing the Bronco, but it is adjusting production and discontinuing some specific trims. Ford has slowed production due to sales not meeting targets, but the current generation is expected to continue production for a few more years. Some trims, like the Wildtrak, have been discontinued, while others, like the base model, have been brought back for the 2025 model year.
- Production adjustments: Ford is reassigning workers from the Bronco production line to other facilities, but the assembly plant will maintain its three-crew schedule for now.
- Trim changes: Ford has discontinued the Wildtrak trim but revived the base model for 2025. Other trims have also been discontinued, but new special editions have been introduced.
- Future outlook: While the current generation is expected to be produced until at least 2026, the next generation of the Bronco is anticipated to be around 2029.
Is Ford making a 2026 Bronco?
Yes, there will be a 2026 Ford Bronco, which marks the 60th anniversary of the vehicle and includes new features and packages. Key updates for the 2026 model include a new 60th Anniversary Package, a new 4-door Stroppe model, potential for a hybrid powertrain, and a refreshed front end with new styling details.
This video provides an overview of the 2026 Bronco's key features and updates: 59sLong McArthurYouTube · Oct 17, 2025
New and notable features
- 60th Anniversary Package: A special package is available on the Outer Banks trim, which includes a 60th Anniversary Package with unique badging, special wheels, and other styling cues.
- Hybrid option: A hybrid powertrain may be introduced, combining a 2.3-liter engine with an electric motor for instant torque and improved fuel efficiency.
- Stroppe model: The Stroppe model will be available as a 4-door configuration, which was not previously an option, and the 2-door Stroppe is discontinued.
- Engine and performance: The standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine has updated tuning for better low-end torque, and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 will have refined calibrations for improved throttle response and fuel efficiency.
- Technology and styling:
- New tech includes an optional 360-degree camera and a digital rearview mirror.
- Exterior styling features a redesigned front end with new LED lighting, new body-color options for trim pieces, updated wheel designs, and new roof and door options including a power-retractable hardtop.
- Trim level changes:
- The 2-door Stroppe is discontinued.
- The stabilizer bar disconnect is now optional on the Badlands trim.
- Color options:
- New color options for 2026 include Avalanche and Wimbledon White (for the 60th Anniversary Package).
- Discontinued colors include Azure Gray, Robins Egg Blue, and Eruption Green.
What car replaced the Ford Bronco?
Ford Expedition
Following a decline in demand for large two-door SUVs, Ford discontinued the Bronco after the 1996 model year, replacing it with the four-door Ford Expedition; followed by the larger Ford Excursion.
Is Ford coming out with a new SUV in 2025?
Get Out There
Maybe you've never been on an off-road * adventure ...or maybe you're a natural. Either way, the new 2025 Bronco Sport® SUV is equipped to take you off the pavement and back again.
