Why did Ford cancel the Bronco?
Ford did not cancel the modern Bronco; the Bronco nameplate faded in the 1990s and was revived in 2020, and today Ford continues to produce the Bronco and Bronco Sport. The original Bronco and its smaller Bronco II were discontinued in 1996 as Ford restructured its SUV lineup.
Historical turning points: The original Bronco and Bronco II
Here's a quick look at the key moments in the Bronco’s early life and its mid-1990s cancellation.
- 1966: Ford launches the first-generation Bronco, a compact, rugged off-road SUV built for trail use and light-duty work.
- 1983: Ford introduces the Bronco II as a smaller, two-door model designed to compete with mid-size rivals.
- 1990s: Safety concerns and shifting consumer demand contribute to declining sales of both Bronco variants.
- 1996: Production ends for both the Bronco and Bronco II; the nameplate goes dormant for decades.
These milestones show why Ford retired the Bronco family in the mid-1990s as it redirected resources toward newer SUV platforms.
Why the Bronco II and the original Bronco were canceled
The cancellation stemmed from a combination of safety concerns — notably rollover risk highlighted in consumer and regulatory discussions — and a broader market shift toward newer SUV platforms that offered more space, better efficiency, and modern electronics. Declining sales sealed the decision.
Revival and the modern Bronco lineup
The Bronco name resurfaced in 2020 after years of fan demand and a strategic push by Ford to re-enter the off-road segment dominated by the Jeep Wrangler. The modern Bronco uses a body-on-frame design with serious off-road capability, removable doors and roof, and a modular approach to powertrains and equipment. The Bronco Sport followed as a smaller, unibody sibling designed for daily driving with light off-road ability.
To understand how Ford kept the Bronco alive and expanded it, consider these points:
- 2020: The official return of the Bronco marks Ford’s re-entry into rugged off-road SUVs with modern technology and a strong aftermarket ecosystem.
- 2021–2023: Production faced supply-chain constraints, leading to waiting lists and staggered deliveries, but demand remained high among enthusiasts.
- 2022–2024: Introduction of the Bronco Raptor and expanded trim levels; a broader dealer network and accessories program helped broaden appeal.
These factors show that Ford actively invested in the Bronco as a core off-road brand, not canceled in the modern era.
Current status and common misconceptions
As of 2025, Ford continues to offer the Bronco and Bronco Sport, with ongoing updates and new variants planned. Some confusion arises from the mid-1990s discontinuation of the original Bronco family or from temporary production pauses tied to semiconductor shortages and other supply-chain issues rather than a formal cancellation of the program itself.
Common misunderstanding: confusion with the 1990s era
Many readers encounter the idea that Ford "canceled the Bronco" because the nameplate disappeared in the 1990s. In truth, the company retired the original Bronco and Bronco II, then revived the name decades later with a renewed product strategy in 2020 and beyond.
Summary
The Bronco’s history is twofold: a mid-1990s retirement of the original Bronco family due to safety concerns and shifting market demand, followed by a modern revival in 2020 that transformed the Bronco into Ford’s flagship off-road lineup alongside the Bronco Sport and Bronco Raptor. The current status is active production and ongoing evolution, with no cancellation of the contemporary Bronco program.
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.
Is Ford recalling the Bronco?
The company says it's because of an instrument panel display failure. So the affected vehicles are the 25. And 26 Bronco and Bronco Sport.
Why did Ford discontinue Bronco?
The last Bronco rolled off the assembly line on June 12, 1996 at the Michigan Truck Plant. The taste of the American consumers was changing, and the stalwart two-door sport utility vehicle was being replaced in the Ford lineup by the four-door Expedition.
Is there going to be a 2025 Bronco?
Either way, the new 2025 Bronco Sport® SUV is equipped to take you off the pavement and back again. New features instill confidence in your ability to go way off course.
