Fearless enough to conquer rocky terrain, the 2026 Ford Bronco brings something wild to the compact SUV class and adds a fresh package to its lineup. The 60th Anniversary package, new for 2026, builds on the Outer Banks trim with retro-inspired styling, including a two-tone grille with "Bronco" lettering.
Strip malls and suburban streets are the preferred domain for most small SUVs, but the Ford Bronco brings something different to the table. Along with the Jeep Wrangler, it is one of the precious few models in that class with the gumption to tackle rocks and mud. Standard four-wheel drive provides the traction needed to go beyond paved streets, and its removable top lets you get close to nature when you are out and about in the wild.
Two- and four-door models are available, and Ford offers eight trim levels: Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor.
The Base trim rides on 18-inch steel wheels and includes LED headlights and three tow hooks. The cabin stays cool with single-zone air conditioning, and a height-adjustable driver's seat with cloth upholstery serves as your perch behind the wheel. The list of standard tech amenities includes a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring. As you move up to higher trims, you gain features such as dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and leather upholstery.
If you are a hardcore off-roader, you will want to take a look at the Bronco's Raptor variant. It is the most rugged trim in a lineup that is already pretty rugged, with features like heavy-duty steel bash plates and Fox shock absorbers.
The Bronco comes standard with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower. A turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp is optional, and the Raptor includes a 418-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. A seven-speed manual transmission is standard, and a 10-speed automatic is optional.
City driving can sometimes be more treacherous than wilderness adventures, and the Bronco offers safety features that can protect you when you are driving to work or running errands. All 2026 Bronco SUVs have automatic high-beam headlights that brighten the path ahead, along with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The options list includes blind spot warning to help with safer lane changes. Rear cross-traffic warning, lane keeping assistance, and rear parking sensors are also available.
The Jeep Wrangler is the Bronco's most obvious rival. Both models are more at home off-road than on pavement, but the Bronco offers better on-road comfort. The Subaru Forester is also worth a look; choose the Wilderness trim if you are an avid trail-buster. All Forester SUVs have solid ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, but the Wilderness trim adds off-road capability with a higher ride height and all-terrain tires.
Ford is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of January 21, 2026, but it may have changed since then. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Warren Clarke is an automotive journalist specializing in vehicle reviews and consumer advice. In addition to JD Power, he's written for outlets including Credit Karma, Capital One Auto Navigator, U.S. News and World Report, and Car and Driver.
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