When Ford announced a revival of the Bronco, the response was highly positive. The Bronco line is well-loved by many old-school off-road enthusiasts, who were saddened by its departure in 1996. While there’s not a lot of concrete info about the latest model, many are speculating about what can be expected from this classic SUV as it hits the market once more.

The price tag of the 2020 Ford Bronco has yet to be announced, it’s expected to be closely matched with the Jeep Wrangler 2018. Its competition is only one factor of the 2020 Ford Bronco cost; in order to get a better idea, we need to consider everything else we know about the latest Bronco so far.

Under the Hood

One of the biggest mysteries about the 2020 Ford Bronco is what sort of engine it will have. We can look at the Wrangler and Ford F-150 for clues, but it’s expected to have either a 2.3 turbo-four or a 3.6 liter twin-turbocharged V-6. Ford may be saving the latter for one of their higher-performance models, and because the Bronco will be sharing a platform with the Ranger, the most likely engine is the 2.3-liter engine.

While a few rumors have suggested a six or seven-speed manual transmission, the Bronco will most likely have a ten-speed automatic. It will be equipped with RWD standard, with an option for 4WD.

Exterior Appearance

Will Ford be able to recreate the appeal of the classic Bronco for the modern age? While a few renderings have been created, we still don’t know what the final product will look like. A prototype was recently caught on film, but not a lot of details can be seen. The Bronco is expected to be a four-door SUV, like the Jeep Wrangler, and will be able to seat five, but a two-door version is also likely. A removable roof, known as the “Air Roof”, is also expected to be one of its features.

Additionally, pictures of a smaller Bronco model were teased at a recent dealership meeting. This model is being called the “baby Bronco” and will probably be a crossover. It’s expected to be released a few months before the standard Bronco.

Chassis

1978 Broncos were closely modeled after the Ford F-100, sharing the same drivetrain and chassis. Similarly, the new Bronco’s frame is expected to emulate the modern Ford Ranger. This means a fully-boxed frame made from solid steel, the design typical of most successful SUVs. Looking at recent spy shots, the Bronco is suspected to have a solid rear axle with coil springs, which proved successful for the Jeep Wrangler. Skid plates will be placed in front of the drivetrain to protect its inner workings.

2020 Ford Bronco Cost

Even with all these factors, the final cost of the Ford Bronco will only be an estimation. It should also be noted that its fiercest competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, is currently being offered at just under $28,000. In addition to being able to go anywhere, these next-generation SUVs continue to grow more sophisticated with each new model, warranting the higher price tag. Because of that, we expect the 2020 Ford Bronco to start north of $30,000 with higher trims costing significantly more.

For diehard fans of the Bronco, cost will probably only be a minor issue. Ford is hyping up this midsize 4×4 to be a powerful, all-terrain machine that will surpass its competition. We’re hoping to see the 2020 Ford Bronco make its grand debut early next year.

All images provided by the manufacturer unless otherwise noted.