The classic Ford Bronco is one of the most iconic cars of the 20th century. It was discontinued due to a lack of interest in two-door SUVs and was ultimately replaced with the Expedition SUV. However, even the current Ford Expedition isn’t as powerful off the track as its competition. This is why so many old-school Bronco fans were ecstatic to hear that the car was making a comeback. The redesigned 2021 Ford Bronco was revealed last week, but you’ll have to wait until April to drive it. Despite this, sales figures already indicate that the Bronco will be one of Ford’s most popular cars.

About the latest 2021 Bronco

The 2021 Ford Bronco comes with two potent powertrain options. A 2.3-liter four-cylinder is the standard offering, which can make 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. A twin-turbo V6 is also on tap, which provides 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Both of these are paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, but you can also get a seven-speed manual for the inline-four.

The models with the larger engine also come with a few enhanced components geared towards off-roading. Enhanced all-wheel drive, 35-inch all-terrain tires, superior dampers, electronically locking differentials, and even an off-roading performance app are included. The Bronco is also available in a two-door configuration with a soft top, perfect for open-air adventures.

A smaller model, dubbed the Ford Bronco Sport, is also currently available for preorder. Its powertrain options are slightly less impressive, but the available turbo four-cylinder engine can still make 245 hp. Just like the full-size Bronco, the more expensive models are outfitted with plenty of off-roading gear.

No matter which Bronco you’re after, the interior is spacious and functional. There’s a shelf at the front of the dashboard that keeps phones and other devices secure over rocky terrain. The cargo hold also has a few neat options like LED overhead lights and a fold-out work surface.

The pricey First Edition Ford Bronco Sport

While the higher trims have more equipment, they also come with large price tags. The First Edition Bronco Sport costs almost $40,000, while the bigger Bronco costs over $60,000. Due to its popularity, we’re also expecting to see some outrageous dealer markups.

The good news is that Ford is seemingly willing to keep up with demand. Preorders for the First Edition Ford Bronco, a total of 3,500 units, sold out in just a few hours, according to Auto Guide. Ford announced that it would be doubling the top-tier Bronco’s production so that more drivers could get their hands on one.

The Bronco is just what Ford needs

The promise of the Bronco’s long term success is definitely a good sign for Ford. The automaker’s sales have been on a downward trend for 2020, according to Ford Authority, with a nearly 34 percent decrease in sales. Its luxury division, Lincoln, also sold nearly 20 percent fewer units than it did last year.

Ford also doesn’t have the most exciting lineup compared to its competitors, save for the best-selling F-150. None of its SUVs particularly stand out amongst rivals like the Hyundai Tuscon or the Honda HR-V. However, with the capable Bronco models, Ford will finally have something substantial to offer to the off-roading crowd.

The Ford Bronco’s biggest rival

Only time will tell if the Bronco can outsell the Jeep Wrangler, which has the best off-roading reputation. We already know that the Bronco will have slightly more ground clearance than the Wrangler, up to 11.6 inches. However, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is far more affordable than the First Edition Ford Bronco. Still, if it means better off-roading performance, the fanciest 2021 Ford Bronco may be worth the extra money.