Ford Bronco:Review the specs, features and pros & cons

Ford Bronco Safety

Since there haven’t been any new builds since 1996, any Bronco you pick up before the 2020 remodel will be a bit behind on modern safety gear. With older generations especially, you’re looking mainly at seat belts and brakes. Safety features that came standard starting in the late 70s include:

Areo-halogen headlamps for maximum visibility, on all models since 1978
Four-wheel anti-lock brakes to help reduce skidding during sudden stops, as of the 1987 model
Driver-side airbag to protect you in the event of a crash, from 1994 onwards

Ford Bronco Interior

The Ford Bronco comes standard with well-made, sturdy and supportive seats finished in soft cloth. Upgraded leather seats bring a bit of luxe, as does the leather-wrapped steering wheel that affords excellent grip and control. Optional extras at higher trim levels include climate control, for keeping the temperature just right, and privacy glass if you prefer to drive without an audience. If you’re planning on transporting equipment frequently, some models offer retractable netting over the cargo area to help keep your things in place.

Ford Bronco Technology

For its age, the Bronco still offers a handful of tech tricks, like auto locking on later models so you can secure the vehicle at the press of a button. Useful items in the Eddie Bauer edition include an on-board compass to help with navigation, outside temperature display so that you're aware if the weather drops below freezing on ice-prone roads, as well as map lights for finding your belongings in the cabin at night. Higher trim levels, such as the XLT Sport, offered the following features in their latest 1996 model:

• Signal mirrors to alert you of oncoming traffic
• Available electronic stereo system complete with disc player

Ford Bronco Space

This is where the Bronco stands out. It’s a massive vehicle, so by nature has swathes of space for passengers and cargo. If you need to accommodate extra large items, the seats fold down to make more space. A helpful extra, the swing-down tailgate makes it easy to load and unload cargo. As for hauling, the Bronco’s combination of size and power gives it a colossal towing capacity of 6,600 to 7,000 lbs depending on whether it’s equipped with a V6 or V8 engine.

Ford Bronco Comfort

With seats designed to absorb some of the bumps of off-road driving and front seats featuring lumbar support, the Bronco is a comfortable choice. Its body-on-frame construction and heavy-duty, gas-pressurized shock absorbers keep the ride smooth and stable even over difficult terrain—a reminder that the Bronco was a top-of-the-line off-road vehicle in its time.