2025 Ford Bronco review (Big Bend Edition)
“I shall start this review, perhaps rather strangely, by saying that this vehicle was just not for me. That’s not to say that I didn’t like and enjoy it. It’s just that at 64 years old, my wild adventure days are perhaps well in my rear-view mirror.
However, I must also say that I totally get this vehicle. In fact, thinking back to my youthful days of racing motocross and riding Trials motorcycles, I’d have pretty much begged or borrowed to get behind the wheel of something like this. Yes, with a bumper-mounted dirt bike carrier and this amazing 4×4 adventure vehicle, you wouldn’t have seen me for dust on the weekends.
So come with me as I evaluate this exciting Bronco and let’s see if you’ll agree with my assessment.”
Exterior styling
At first glance, one has to say that Ford has done a glorious job of staying true to the heritage of its famed Bronco nameplate. The exterior perfectly reflects that old school box-like styling, while combining this with modern updates, such as the modern retro round headlights. The large square hood, plus the additional grab handles/tie downs on the front fenders, do an amazing job of allowing the driver to know the precise location of the front of his/her vehicle at any given time. This is a true asset when off-roading, but equally useful when maneuvering into tight parking lot spaces.
In a similar vein, the rear mounted spare tire allows for the rear-view camera to be positioned further from the bodywork, giving a wide/impressive viewpoint, especially when projected onto the large 12 inch SYNC4 touchscreen display which my test vehicle sported. Again, not only useful in parking lots, but a great benefit to off-roaders while reversing on trails. Add to this rock rails, tow hooks, and full underbody steel protection plates (which Ford likes to call “Bash Plates”), and it’s plain to see that this vehicle was not built solely for pavement use. 32 inch All-Terrain tires on rugged 17 inch rims complete this look.
Then, of course, we have to mention to removable hard-shell roof panels which add roof off convertible fun, combined with a solid covering for those wintery snow-covered days. The best of both worlds, you might say.
Interior
The inside of the Bronco follows very much the exterior, in as much as it is very stylish and yet super purposeful. The first thing you’ll notice is the easy-to-clean rubber flooring throughout and the wipe-down vinyl seating which comes with the Black Diamond Package. It’s perfect for those who enjoy getting a little muddy, yet equally pleasing to those with ice cream loving youngsters riding in the back seats. Speaking of which, the back seats, (not the children), fold down almost flat and there’s plenty enough room to sleep back there. The large roof would quite likely support a sizeable roof-top tent. This is often a consideration for those who wish to spend more than just one day at a time out adventuring.
Naturally, there’s a whole host of convenience and safety features which go along with this, including dual zone heating/ac, Roll Stability Control, Tilt/Telescopic Steering, Terrain Management, Perimeter Alarm, Personal Safety System, together with the usual array of airbags etc.
All in all, a well-appointed, yet practical interior which suits the overall design of the vehicle.
The Drive
Power comes from a 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine (2.7 L V6, 3.0 L V6 are also available), which is then fed via a 10-speed auto transmission to 2, or all 4 wheels, on demand through a Terrain Management System W/G.O.A.T. modes. This should be more than capable of taking adventurers where they wish to adventure to, and to see them back out safely.
The ride is possibly on the firmer side of most SUVs/CUVs, but it is not what I would call harsh. It fact, I was pleasantly surprised by just how comfortable the ride was. The electronic power assist steering does an extremely good job and is almost car-like in feel. Likewise, even with the somewhat aggressive tires, the soundproofing does an excellent job of isolating exterior road noise.
It also has to be said that there’s more than a little fun factor provided from its somewhat raspy exhaust note. Step on the happy pedal and the Bronco not only gets up and goes, but it delights in sharing this with passers-by. Fortunately, it’s a growly but pleasant sound. Dare I say, tempting to indulge in?
Pricing & other specs
My test vehicle, the Big Bend (second trim level) 4-door powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost (300HP) starts off at a base of $52,965 (MSRP). The 10-speed transmission adds another $1,495 to this and, should you wish to spec as my tester with the Black Diamond Package, this will add a further $6,290. So all in all, a new Bronco is going to run you somewhere in the region of $50 to 70k depending on the specifications. That, I must say, places it well positioned in its chosen market.
Full economy is given as 12.9L/100kms (City) and 10.9L/100kms (Hwy) with a combined of 12.0L/100kms (or 24MPG), and the towing capacity is rated at 3500lbs.
Conclusion
I started off this review by declaring that this vehicle was not for me. I need to clarify that by saying, I absolutely loved the vehicle. Unfortunately, while I would indeed enjoy owning and driving one of these long term, I could no longer truly do this vehicle justice. My days of off-roading, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, dirt bike riding, sailboarding, surfing (and any other adventurous/energetic activity you care to add to that list) are long gone. Sure, I have friends of my age who still compete in marathons and go off-road camping on a regular basis. Sadly that’s no longer me (OK I’ll confess, I never have run a marathon!).
But age is not the real issue here. What is, is do you have that adventurous spirit or not?
Truly, this vehicle has been purposely designed and built for those who are young, or at least young at heart, whether you’re just starting out, or if you have a young family who like to get out there and have fun together. Even if you are my age, yet still have that longing urge for adventure (oh how I envy you!), this vehicle was built for you too.
It’s a vehicle which, with a little imagination, allows you the freedom to go and do whatever you wish. From wilderness camping to forest trail exploring, from remote lake kayaking to mountain biking deep in the woods. Basically, if you can dream of an activity and location, the Bronco will assist you in achieving your goals.
All of which has got me thinking. Perhaps I should take up a new hobby and get out there more? Be adventurous again.
Yes, I think I’ll put my feet up, have a cup of tea, and ponder that for a while.
In the meantime, get yourselves down to your local Ford dealer and check out the 2025 Bronco.
After all, adventure awaits!