Ford Philippines recently took the motoring media to Pampanga to give us a taste of its two legendary models, namely the 2024 Mustang GT and the 2024 Bronco Outer Banks Sasquatch Edition. We took the Mustang for a few laps around Clark International Speedway and then drove the Bronco on a specially prepared off-road course nearby.
I talked about my Mustang experience HERE, but this time I'll be discussing my short adventure around the lahar-filled banks of Sacobia River.
Following its launch announcement, the increasing excitement about the new Bronco was understandable. This is a model that holds great historical value to the brand, and although the Philippines was never a major market for the Bronco, its legendary status was known worldwide. And after a 28-year hiatus, everyone has been eager to give the reborn legend a go.
Locally, the 2024 Bronco sits at the pinnacle of Ford's 4x4 lineup, proudly positioned above the Ranger Raptor, and has quickly become a symbol of Ford's off-road prowess and spirit for adventure.
Design and exterior
The Outer Banks Sasquatch Edition Bronco that we're getting combines luxury and performance capability into one package, making it a study in rugged elegance. The Outer Banks trim focuses on providing a more upscale experience with premium materials and finishes, while the Sasquatch package equips the SUV with bigger tires, more performance-oriented wheels, and beefier suspension components.
The SUV's retro-modern design pays homage to its heritage while introducing modernity. The squared-off body, round headlights, and simplified taillights evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the original 1966 Bronco. The Bronco's bold lines, high-clearance suspension, and 35-inch mud terrain tires give it a fierce and raw look that tells everyone it would rather be playing in the dirt than on the pavement. Its smooth and simple design lines hide the fact that it has removable doors and tops, easily converting the Bronco into an open-air adventure beast. Its undeniable masculine appeal is partly thanks to wide fender flares and burly 17-inch wheels. According to the literature, these wheels are "beadlock-capable," meaning they are factory-ready to accept beadlock rings should your off-roading activities require it.
Engine and transmission
Under the hood, the Bronco is powered by a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering a robust 335 PS and a healthy 555 Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth power delivery and optimal performance across various driving conditions. The Bronco's engine and transmission combination provide ample low-end torque, making it adept at tackling steep inclines and rugged trails.
The Bronco's Advanced 4x4 with On-Demand Engagement system intelligently distributes power to all wheels, enhancing traction and stability. Coupled with the 4.7 final drive ratio and electronic-locking front and rear axles, the Bronco ensures maximum grip and torque, no matter the terrain. This system was put to the test in the lahar dunes of Sacobia, where its capabilities were showcased in full.
Interior and technology
Step inside the Bronco, and you'll find a cabin that seamlessly blends functionality with modern technology. Thanks to the Outer Banks trim level, the interior features leather seats in a striking dark space gray and navy pier color scheme. Both the driver's seat and the front passenger seat offer multiple power adjustments, and controls are mostly located away from the removable doors, making for a visually busy but functional center line.
The centerpiece of the Bronco's interior is the SYNC® 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch colored touchscreen. This system offers enhanced voice recognition and swipe capability, making it easier to access various vehicle controls. The touchscreen also serves as a monitor for the 360-degree camera, which provides a comprehensive view of the surroundings, crucial for navigating challenging terrains. Additionally, the Bronco is equipped with a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, delivering an immersive audio experience with its 10 speakers and subwoofer.
Suspension and handling
The Bronco's High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system, complemented by position-sensitive Bilstein shock absorbers, ensures stability at high speeds and precision at lower speeds. This suspension setup was particularly impressive during the media drive, where the Bronco tackled steep inclines, river crossings, and rocky surfaces with remarkable poise. One standout feature of the Bronco's suspension system is the Trail Turn Assist. This feature applies brakes to the inside rear wheel at low speeds, effectively pivoting the vehicle around that wheel as you gradually press on the throttle. Despite the mechanical noise it produces, the Trail Turn Assist proved invaluable in maneuvering through the challenging course carved out of the lahar dunes.
Safety features and tech
The Ford Bronco's Co-Pilot360 Technology is an extensive suite of advanced driver-assist features designed to enhance safety and convenience. It includes Auto High-Beam Headlights and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). The Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert warns drivers of dangers just outside one’s line of sight, enhancing situational awareness. The Lane-Keeping System, which includes Lane-Keeping Alert and Lane-Keeping Assist, helps prevent unintentional lane departures with gentle steering corrections and alerts. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) detects potential collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or reduce the impact, while Post-Collision Braking helps prevent secondary collisions by applying the brakes after an initial impact. Enhanced Active Park Assist simplifies parking by controlling the steering while the driver handles acceleration and braking, and Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ includes Evasive Steering Assist and Navigation with real-time traffic updates.
Driving experience
Driving the Bronco in Pampanga was an exhilarating experience as it was surprisingly easy to drive in rough terrain. The course, designed to mimic real-world off-road conditions, included dips, climbs, and river crossings, alternating between water, mud, rocks, and sandy surfaces that highlighted the SUV's exceptional off-road capabilities. The Bronco handled each obstacle with ease, thanks to its advanced 4x4 system and GOAT (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes.
These modes allow drivers to adjust the vehicle's settings to match various off-road conditions, enhancing both performance and safety. I would like to take special note of the Trail Turn Assist feature, which, when activated, gives you almost videogame-level turning capabilities. According to our experienced 4x4 instructors, that feature alone is a godsend when tackling really tight, uneven trail corners.
The Bronco's high seating position and squared-off hood provided excellent visibility, further aided by the 360-degree camera system. This feature eliminated guesswork when navigating steep inclines or crossing embankments, providing clear views of the terrain and obstacles. The SUV's impeccable traction allowed it to power through loose, powdery surfaces, while the electronic-locking differentials ensured optimal grip on rocky paths. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine delivered consistent power throughout the drive, with its peak torque available at just 3,000 rpm. This low-end grunt was particularly useful when climbing steep inclines or pulling through deep mud. The 10-speed automatic transmission's wide ratio range allowed for smooth power delivery, making the Bronco as comfortable on the highway as it is capable off-road.
Verdict
Priced at ₱4,998,000, the Bronco is a relatively affordable way to own an apocalypse truck. With its powerful engine, performance suspension, and tech-rich drivetrain, it's a formidable off-road machine designed to bring videogame-like drivability to those who seek adventure beyond the pavement.