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Which Bronco is body-on-frame?

When it comes to Ford's iconic Bronco lineup, there's one model that stands out for its rugged, body-on-frame construction: the Bronco. This SUV is designed to tackle the toughest terrain, offering uncompromising off-road capabilities and a durable, long-lasting build.


What is a Body-on-Frame SUV?


A body-on-frame SUV, like the Bronco, is a vehicle where the body is mounted on a separate frame, rather than being integrated into a unibody design. This construction method provides several advantages, including increased durability, better towing capacity, and enhanced off-road performance. The body-on-frame design allows for greater flexibility in suspension and chassis modifications, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts who want to customize their vehicles for specific needs.


The Bronco's Rugged Roots


The Bronco has a long history of being a body-on-frame SUV, dating back to its introduction in 1966. This design has been a key part of the Bronco's identity, allowing it to excel in off-road situations and providing a solid foundation for the vehicle's legendary capabilities. The Bronco's body-on-frame construction has been a consistent feature throughout its various generations, ensuring that it remains a capable and durable choice for those who demand the best from their SUV.


Benefits of the Bronco's Body-on-Frame Design



  • Increased Durability: The separate body and frame construction of the Bronco makes it more resistant to damage and wear, ensuring a longer lifespan for the vehicle.

  • Enhanced Off-Road Performance: The body-on-frame design allows for greater suspension travel and articulation, enabling the Bronco to tackle challenging terrain with ease.

  • Improved Towing Capacity: The robust frame of the Bronco can handle heavier loads, making it a capable towing vehicle for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other equipment.

  • Customization Potential: The modular design of the body-on-frame Bronco allows for a wide range of modifications and customizations, appealing to enthusiasts who want to personalize their vehicles.


In conclusion, the Bronco's body-on-frame construction is a key part of what makes it a standout SUV in the Ford lineup. This rugged design provides unparalleled durability, off-road capability, and customization potential, making the Bronco a top choice for those who demand the best from their vehicles.

What platform is Bronco built on?


The Ford Bronco has two main platforms: the modern, non-sport Bronco uses a body-on-frame platform shared with the Ford Ranger, while the Bronco Sport uses Ford's unibody C2 platform shared with the Ford Escape and Ford Maverick. This means the two vehicles have different construction methods, with the standard Bronco being a more rugged, truck-based SUV and the Bronco Sport being a more car-like crossover with better on-road manners.
 
Standard Bronco

  • Construction: Body-on-frame
  • Shared platform: Shares its chassis with the Ford Ranger
  • Characteristics: Rugged, durable, and built for serious off-roading due to its truck-based foundation 

Bronco Sport
  • Construction: Unibody 
  • Shared platform: Uses the Ford C2 platform, which is also the foundation for the Ford Escape and Ford Maverick 
  • Characteristics: More car-like in its ride and handling, making it easier to maneuver in cities and suburban driving 



Is the Ford Bronco body on the frame?


Yes, the standard Ford Bronco is body-on-frame, built on a rugged platform similar to the Ford Ranger that makes it highly capable for off-roading. In contrast, the smaller Bronco Sport uses a unibody construction, like a car, which is designed for a smoother ride and everyday use rather than extreme off-road adventures.
 

  • Ford Bronco: Features a body-on-frame build, which is ideal for tough terrain due to its durability and strength. 
  • Ford Bronco Sport: Is built with a unibody construction, making it lighter and more suitable for daily driving and light off-road excursions. 



Is the new Bronco a frame or unibody?


Bronco is a larger, body-on-frame SUV with available 2- and 4-door layouts. Bronco Sport is a compact unibody SUV available as a 4-door only.



Is the Ford Bronco built on the Escape frame?


Bronco Sport: Built on a unibody platform shared with the Ford Escape, the Bronco Sport is more car-like in ride quality and maneuverability. It's compact size makes – it easier to park and navigate in cities. Regular Bronco: Uses a traditional body-on-frame truck chassis similar to the Ford Ranger.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.