Why did Ford stop making Broncos?

Ford halted the original Bronco in 1996 due to declining sales, a strategic shift in Ford’s SUV lineup, and safety/regulatory pressures tied to the Bronco II. The Bronco name later reappeared in 2020 as a modern revival designed to compete with rugged off-road SUVs.

To understand the question fully, it helps to split Ford’s Bronco history into two eras: the 1966–1996 original Bronco family (including the Bronco II in the 1980s) and the 2020 revival that followed. This article examines why the first generation was discontinued, how market dynamics and regulatory concerns shaped that decision, and why Ford later brought the Bronco back with a contemporary, off-road-ready model.

Original Bronco era: decline and discontinuation

Key factors that contributed to Ford’s decision to end the original Bronco line in the mid-1990s are detailed below.

• Safety concerns and reputational impact from the Bronco II era, including rollover risk and related lawsuits, which damaged consumer confidence.


• Sales decline as consumer tastes shifted toward lighter, more fuel-efficient SUVs and the market moved away from large, truck-based family vehicles.


• Ford’s strategic reallocation of resources toward updated large-SUVs and pickups, notably the Expedition, and toward a platform redesign that would be costly to upgrade for safety and emissions compliance.


• Intensifying competition from Jeep, Chevrolet, and other brands offering more modern or category-focused setups, which squeezed the Bronco’s market share.

Taken together, these factors made the Bronco less viable as a long-term cornerstone of Ford’s lineup, prompting its discontinuation in 1996 as Ford redirected emphasis to newer, more efficient, and more profitable SUVs and trucks.

The Bronco returns: revival in the 2020s

Ford reintroduced the Bronco in response to a different set of market dynamics and consumer desires, outlined below.

• A surge in demand for rugged, off-road capable SUVs and a strong wave of nostalgia that boosted interest in retro-styled models, helped by the enduring success of the Jeep Wrangler.


• Development of a modern, body-on-frame platform with advanced off-road technology, removable roof and doors, and multiple powertrain options to meet contemporary performance and durability standards.


• Expansion of the lineup beyond a two-door model to include four-door variants and the smaller Bronco Sport, broadening appeal across different geographies and use cases.


• Ongoing updates and special variants (such as the high-performance Bronco Raptor) that keep the model competitive in a fast-evolving off-road segment.

The 2020 revival marks a distinct chapter from the 1960s–1990s Bronco: a modern, technology-rich SUV designed to compete with today’s rugged offerings while leveraging enduring brand heritage.

Summary

Ford discontinued the original Bronco in 1996 due to a combination of weakening sales, safety concerns surrounding the Bronco II, and a strategic shift toward newer, more profitable SUVs and pickups. The name returned in 2020 as a contemporary, off-road‑focused vehicle built to appeal to buyers drawn to rugged capability and nostalgic branding, highlighting how market conditions and consumer preferences can drive two very different chapters under the same model name.

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. 

Will there be a 2027 Ford Bronco?

The Bronco isn't the only hybrid model expected from Ford in 2027. We anticipate the automaker will launch three additional hybrid vehicles that year: the 2027 Expedition Hybrid, 2027 Explorer Hybrid, and 2027 Mustang Hybrid. More information on the 2027 Ford Bronco Hybrid should become available within the next year.

Which Ford Bronco years to avoid?

You should avoid the 2021 and 2022 Ford Broncos due to numerous recalls and quality issues, especially with the hard tops. For classic Broncos, 1988 is a year to avoid because of electrical problems, and 1993 had issues with recalls, parking brakes, and transfer cases. 
This video discusses reasons to avoid buying a Ford Bronco, including recalls and quality issues: 53sMaie HavenYouTube · Apr 23, 2025
Modern Ford Broncos (2021-Present)

• 2021 and 2022: These initial model years are associated with numerous recalls and quality complaints, particularly related to the hard top, engine, and various interior and exterior fit-and-finish problems. 

Classic Ford Broncos

• 1988: This model year had a problematic electrical system. 
• 1993: This year was plagued with recalls, including fire risks, parking brake issues, and problems with the transfer case slipping out of gear. 
• 1980-1982: These models have a frame design with holes that can make it brittle and weak. 
• 1990-1996: Many Broncos from this era can experience issues with the intake manifold gasket, leading to high engine idle, especially with high mileage. 

This video discusses common problems in Ford Broncos: 59sExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Jul 4, 2025
What to consider instead

• Modern Broncos: Ford has addressed many of the initial issues in later models, so a 2024 or newer might be a better choice, although 2024 and 2025 models still had recalls for issues like improper fastener installation. 
• Classic Broncos: Aim for the fifth generation (1992-1996) or later, as these models are generally more reliable and safer. 

Is Ford going to make a 2025 Bronco?

Every 2025 Ford Bronco includes new standard equipment and features, starting with a 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster that replaces today's 8.0-inch display and physical speedometer.