2028 Ford Bronco: All-New SUV Family Previews

2028 Ford Bronco: When Ford revived the Bronco nameplate for the 2021 model year, the American and global automotive world got excited right away. The roots of this SUV stretch back to 1966, when the original concept, conceived by automotive legend Lee Iacocca, was designed to challenge the dominance of the Jeep CJ-5 and International Scout. That original run lasted five generations before the Bronco was discontinued in 1996.

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When the latest generation launched, Ford brought back more than the round headlights and boxy silhouette. The Blue Oval also injected a modern engineering philosophy: open-air modularity combined with Independent Front Suspension (IFS).

That approach solves a classic problem of true off-road SUVs. A Jeep Wrangler with a solid front axle can feel shaky and rough on the road. Ford has managed to build a hardcore off-roader that still tracks straight, stable and comfortable on the way home.

Entering 2028, the Bronco is at the peak of its maturity. With balanced proportions, extremely short front and rear overhangs, and a blend of extreme terrain toughness and everyday comfort, the 2028 Ford Bronco sets the benchmark in the American adventure SUV segment.

Key Features

Frameless modular body design: The doors can be removed by one person. On four-door models, the frameless doors store neatly in the rear cargo area. The fender flares use quarter-turn fasteners, so you can replace one yourself in the garage if a tree branch damages it.
Sasquatch Package: This available package takes off-road capability to the next level with locking front and rear differentials, high-clearance fender flares, position-sensitive Bilstein shocks, and 35-inch tires (or 29-inch Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires on the Bronco Sport). It is standard on the Heritage Edition.
Water- and mud-friendly cabin: Marine-grade vinyl seats are waterproof. Hose down the interior after a dusty weekend in the desert and the water drains out automatically.
SYNC 4 and off-road telemetry: A 12-inch touchscreen (13.2 inches on the Bronco Sport) is the control center for entertainment, wireless connectivity and real-time telemetry showing pitch, roll and wheel articulation.
Bronco Off-Roadeo bonus: Every new Bronco buyer gets a ticket to Bronco Off-Roadeo, a one-day off-road driving school led by professional instructors on demanding US trails. You can test the limits of Ford’s engineering without risking your own vehicle.

What’s New for 2028

For 2028, development focus is expected to center on electrification and special editions.

Hybrid powertrain: Ford Blue has committed to offering at least one hybrid variant across its internal combustion lineup by 2030, so the Bronco and Bronco Sport are expected to get a hybrid option.
No major mid-cycle refresh: Contrary to early rumors, the 2028 model year is not expected to bring a radical redesign or refresh. The focus is on special-edition variants.
60th Anniversary Package: Based on the Outer Banks trim (2.3L I-4 or 2.7L V6 EcoBoost, Sasquatch Package, running boards), this collector’s edition is what we hope to see carried into the 2028 lineup.

2028 Ford Bronco Updates

Bronco Sport: The 2025 refresh brought a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 display, and the Sasquatch Package with Rally GOAT mode, rear Bilstein shocks and a 360-degree camera with Trail View. The next Bronco Sport update is reported to be on track for the 2028 model year.
Replacing the Ford Escape: With the Ford Escape set to be discontinued at the end of the 2026 model year, the Bronco Sport becomes crucial to Ford’s compact SUV lineup. A hybrid option in 2028 would be a strategic move.

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2028 Ford Bronco Specs

Specification Parameters	Technical details
Engine Options	2.3L EcoBoost I-4 / 2.7L EcoBoost V6 / 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor)
Fuel Requirements	93 Octane Gasoline (Premium) is Required for Maximum Performance
Transmission	7-Speed Manual (withCrawler Gear) / 10-Speed Automatic
Drive System	Advanced 4x4 withOn-Demand Engagement
Front Suspension	Independent Front Suspension (IFS)
Infotainment System	SYNC 4 with 12-inch / 13.2-inch Touchscreen
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty	3 Years / 36,000 Miles
Powertrain & Roadside Warranty	5 Years / 60,000 Miles

2028 Ford Bronco Redesign

For shoppers hoping for a total change in shape, industry reports indicate the Bronco will not be fully redesigned for the 2028 model year. Ford appears to be adopting a longer product life cycle for its rugged off-roader, similar to the strategy used for its main rival, the Jeep Wrangler.

The next-generation Bronco is reportedly scheduled to enter production in late 2029, as a 2029 or 2030 model. The 2028 model year is expected to keep the boxy design language the market loves while adding a hybrid variant.

A new Ford patent application for an unnamed SUV with a familiar throwback look offers a possible preview. The patent images closely resemble what could be the next-generation Bronco, expected around 2030.

The mystery SUV has a boxy shape with an enlarged grille, reminiscent of the Scout Traveler as much as the Bronco. Its proportions appear slightly smaller than the current Bronco. If the drawings are accurate, the rear door opening and wheel arches would be smaller too.

The front end shows a pair of vertical tow hooks integrated into a sturdy bumper, similar to the current Bronco Raptor. One notable change, though not guaranteed for production, is a top-hinged tailgate in place of the current swing-out rear door.

Two patents are worth a look. The first describes a modular storage system for removed doors, using support beams that attach to the doors and let them be stowed in the cargo area. The second explores sleeping arrangements: a folding platform that turns the rear three-quarters of the SUV into a flat floor, and a rooftop tent that uses the hood as a support structure.

The current Bronco has not changed generations since its 2021 revival, so it is due for a revamp by the end of the decade. A hybrid is expected as a 2028 model, and Ford is reportedly working on a Bronco pickup. Still, what Ford really needs is a new generation, and these patent images may be our first glimpse of it.

Bronco Sport: After its 2025 mid-cycle update, the next refresh is expected in 2028 and may introduce a hybrid engine.
Full-size Bronco: The focus is expected to be cabin technology, limited-edition variants and powertrain refinement, without changing the core look.

2028 Ford Bronco Rumors

Leaked Ford patents at the USPTO have sparked several rumors about the Bronco’s future:

– New design and top-hinged liftgate: A boxy SUV similar to the Bronco, with a larger rear opening and a slightly shorter wheelbase, and a top-hinged liftgate replacing the side-hinged swing gate.
– Integrated camping features: A folding rear platform for sleeping and a rooftop tent supported by the hood.
– Modular door storage: Support beams in the cargo area that would lock removed frameless doors safely inside the vehicle.
– Bronco pickup and right-hand drive: Pickup rumors continue to build toward 2030, along with a possible right-hand-drive version for markets such as Australia.

2028 Ford Bronco Interior

Technology

– SYNC 4 infotainment: The standard 12-inch touchscreen (13.2 inches on the Bronco Sport) boots quickly, has sharp graphics, and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
– Off-road telemetry screen: Shows pitch and roll angles and suspension articulation in real time.
– 360-degree camera with Trail View: Gives a direct view of obstacles in front of the wheels on tight trails.

Comfort

– Highway manners: Independent front suspension reduces steering wander and harsh vibration.
– Materials: Options range from leather to water-resistant, easy-to-clean marine-grade vinyl.
– Seating position: The high seat gives excellent visibility to the tip of the hood.

Storage

– Center console controls: Window and mirror switches sit on the center console so they keep working with the doors removed.
– Door storage: Four-door models can store all four removed doors in the cargo area.
– Patented folding shelf: A patent describes a folding shelf that converts into a flat sleeping area (not confirmed for production).

2028 Ford Bronco Exterior

– Short overhangs: Strong approach and departure angles keep the bumpers clear of rocks on steep descents.
– Easy-to-remove body parts: Modular fender flares come off with a quarter turn of the fasteners.
– Raptor bumper: The Raptor is distinguished by vertical tow hooks integrated into a thick front bumper.

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2028 Ford Bronco Engine

Ford offers three EcoBoost engines:

– 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: 300 hp and 325 lb-ft. A favorite of dedicated off-roaders, especially paired with the 7-speed manual and its extra-low crawler gear for technical rock crawling.
– 2.7L EcoBoost V6: 330 hp and 415 lb-ft. A popular all-rounder with strong mid-range punch, able to reach 60 mph in about 6 seconds.
– 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor): 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. The top variant reaches 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, helped by anti-lag technology from Ford’s racing program.

Fuel note: For maximum power and torque, premium (93 octane) fuel is recommended. On 87 octane, the engine computer may reduce boost and cost roughly 15 to 20 hp.

2028 Ford Bronco MPG

As a tall SUV with the aerodynamics of a flying brick, the Bronco makes fuel-economy compromises:

– 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: About 20 mpg city / 21 highway / 20 combined, dropping to around 18 mpg with the Sasquatch Package and 35-inch tires.
– 2.7L EcoBoost V6: About 19 mpg city / 21 highway / 20 combined, dropping to around 17 mpg with Sasquatch tires.
– 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Raptor): The thirstiest variant at 15 mpg city / 16 highway / 15 combined.

2028 Ford Bronco Colors

The 2028 palette keeps the rugged adventure colors, including Area 51, Cactus Gray, Shadow Black and Oxford White, plus retro accents on the Heritage Edition and 60th Anniversary Package. Avalanche Gray is a recent addition we expect to continue.

2028 Ford Bronco Models and Trims

2028 Ford Bronco Sport

The compact, tough crossover. For 2028, the Bronco Sport is expected to receive an important refresh with a hybrid powertrain option to fill the gap left by the Ford Escape.

The Bronco Sport’s first mid-cycle refresh arrived for the 2025 model year, bringing a new Sasquatch Package, a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 display. According to Automotive News, the next refresh is expected in 2028 and could include the long-awaited hybrid. A full redesign is not expected before the end of the decade, a shift from a September 2024 report that pointed to 2027.

Since all Ford Blue models are slated to get at least one hybrid option by 2030, the upcoming Bronco Sport refresh looks very likely to add one.

The Sasquatch Package on the Bronco Sport adds 29-inch 235/65R17 Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires, Rally GOAT mode, standard front bumper guards, underbody protection plates, four-point tow bars, integrated tie-downs, Bilstein rear shocks with position-sensitive damping and a piggyback reservoir, and new springs that raise ride height by four-tenths of an inch compared to the Badlands.

2028 Ford Bronco Raptor

We hope the 2028 Bronco Raptor remains the pinnacle of American off-road SUV performance. It combines 37-inch tires, extra-wide fender flares and Fox adaptive dampers for a battle-ready look.

Its big advantage is flexibility: it can jump dunes and crawl rocks without punishing the driver on highways or in city traffic. The trade-offs are high fuel consumption, cabin noise at speed and a hefty price tag.

Key features:

– 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 All-Terrain tires: Standard, for maximum grip on extreme terrain.
– Fox adaptive dampers: Adapted from the F-150 Raptor, with track-widened stance for stability.
– 3.0L twin-turbo V6: 418 hp and 440 lb-ft.
– 4WD and G.O.A.T. Modes: Paired with a 10-speed automatic.
– Modular roof and doors: The roof and all four doors remove for open-air driving.

Specifications:

– Type: 4-door, 5-passenger, front-engine, four-wheel-drive SUV
– Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged DOHC 24-valve V6
– Power: 418 hp at 5,750 rpm
– Torque: 440 lb-ft at 2,750 rpm
– Transmission: 10-speed automatic
– Wheelbase / length / width / height: 116.5 / 191.0 / 85.7 / 77.8 inches
– Curb weight: 5,764 lb
– Max towing: 4,500 lb

Interior and technology. The cabin pairs heavy-duty, easy-to-clean rubber flooring and marine-grade vinyl upholstery with auxiliary switches mounted on the overhead console. Leather-wrapped seats are available for buyers who want a touch of luxury. A 12-inch vertical touchscreen runs SYNC 4 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A dash-top rack holds a smartphone or GoPro near a 12-volt outlet, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system is part of the Lux package.

Comfort and space. The Raptor rides well on long trips and seats five, with a second row roomy enough for two adults. Cargo volume is 33.3 cubic feet, sized to hold all four doors behind the second row.

Performance. The twin-turbo V6 takes the Raptor from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and through the quarter mile in 14.4 seconds at 94 mph, with top speed electronically limited to 114 mph. Its 4,500-lb towing capacity beats the standard Bronco’s 3,500 lb.

Fuel economy. The EPA rating is 15 mpg city, 16 highway and 15 combined. In real-world highway testing at 75 mph, the Raptor returned 17 mpg, for a range of around 350 miles.

Exterior. A wider track, large fender flares, steel skid plates and 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tires give the Raptor its stance. Beadlock-capable 17-inch alloy wheels are available for serious off-roaders.

Safety. Standard driver aids include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera.

Price and warranty. Estimated starting MSRP is $81,990. Coverage includes a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

2028 Ford Bronco Big Bend

The Big Bend is the sweet spot of the Bronco family. It delivers the signature modular design, including the removable roof and doors, without the price of the top trims, and it combines real terrain capability with everyday comfort and a full set of modern features.

Powertrain

– Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost inline-4, turbocharged
– Power and torque: 300 hp and 325 lb-ft
– Transmission: 7-speed manual standard, 10-speed automatic optional
– Drive system: Part-time 4×4 with selectable engagement as standard, with Advanced 4×4 with Automatic On-Demand Engagement as an option
– Towing: Up to 3,500 lb when properly equipped

The 2.3L delivers solid response on pavement and rocks, supported by the independent front suspension (HOSS 1.0) for stable, precise control in varied conditions.

Terrain Management System (G.O.A.T. Modes)

The Bronco’s most iconic feature precisely manages traction, 4×4 power delivery and throttle response:

– Normal: Everyday road use
– Eco: Optimizes fuel economy
– Sport: More dynamic acceleration and feel
– Slippery: Fine-tunes traction for rain, snow or ice
– Sand: Built for deep sand or snow, keeping wheel momentum

Drivers can add Ford Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist and electronic-locking front and rear axles.

Exterior

– Removable doors and tops: Mirrors mount to the cowl, so they stay in place with the doors off.
– Roof: The 2-door has a removable hard top. The 4-door comes with a soft top as standard, with a dual-top option.
– Lighting and grille: Black molded-in-color grille with bold white BRONCO lettering, plus LED headlamps and daytime running lamps.
– Color: Avalanche Gray is a recent color option.
– Wheels and tires: 17-inch Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels with P255/75R17 all-terrain tires (about 32 inches).

Cabin

– Digital cluster: 12-inch LCD
– Infotainment: 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
– Seats: Cloth as standard, with waterproof marine-grade vinyl available
– Flooring: Optional rubber flooring with drain plugs for easy cleanup
– Mid package: Adds dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, Pro Power Onboard 400W, remote start and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features

Dimensions and cargo (4-door)

– Length: 189.4 inches
– Wheelbase: 116.1 inches
– Width: 86.3 inches
– Height: 73.0 inches
– Ground clearance: 8.4 inches
– Max cargo: Up to 83.0 cu ft (soft top, second row folded) or 77.6 cu ft (hard top)
– Curb weight: 4,864 to 4,868 lb, depending on configuration

Popular option packages

– Sasquatch Package: The most popular upgrade. It raises ride height, tunes the suspension for off-road use and adds 35-inch LT315/70R17 Rugged-Terrain tires on 17-inch Magnetic Gray wheels.
– Black Diamond Package: Adds heavy-duty bash plates and extra technical features.
– Free Wheeling Package: Retro-inspired colorful graphics inside and out.
– Black Appearance Package: An aggressive all-black look.

What we hope carries into 2028: Avalanche Gray paint, 17-inch Magnetic Gray Mid Gloss alloy wheels with machined flange for Sasquatch-equipped models, a complimentary one-year Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi hotspot, three years of SiriusXM 360L, a battery jumpstart kit and a branded tool kit.

Price. Ford has not confirmed pricing. Our estimate is a starting MSRP of $42,995, which would keep the Big Bend one of the most competitive high-tech 4×4 SUVs in its class.

2028 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands

The most capable Bronco Sport, with a 2.0L EcoBoost engine, special off-road suspension, higher ground clearance and G.O.A.T. driving modes.

2028 Ford Bronco Outer Banks

The trim that blends upscale comfort and lifestyle. It is the base for the 60th Anniversary Package, with a unique grille and retro accents.

2028 Ford Bronco Badlands

The serious off-road trim for the full-size Bronco, with a front sway-bar disconnect, waterproof marine-vinyl interior and floor drain plugs.

2028 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition

The Heritage Edition pairs 1960s design with modern performance and technology, following a “Throwback Looks, Modern Muscle” philosophy. We estimate a starting MSRP of $52,125, a complete package for drivers who want nostalgic style without giving up off-road toughness.

Exterior

– Oxford White grille and roof: An Oxford White grille with thick red “FORD” lettering, plus a removable Oxford White-painted hard top.
– Removable doors and roof: Doors and hard top come off whenever you want open-air driving.
– 17-inch classic white wheels: Oxford White-painted to match the roof.
– Squared fenders and graphics: Bolt-on squared fender flares and Heritage bodyside graphics.
– Extra protection: Powder-coated Baja bumpers front and rear, front bash plates, a powder-coated tube step, and tow hooks (two front, one rear).

Powertrain

– Standard engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with up to 300 hp and 325 lb-ft. A 7-speed manual is standard on the 4-door, with a 10-speed automatic available.
– Optional engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with up to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft, paired with a 10-speed automatic.
– Towing: Up to 3,500 lb when properly equipped.

Off-road capability

– Drive system: Advanced 4×4 with Automatic On-Demand Engagement.
– G.O.A.T. Modes: Five modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand) selected via a knob on the center console.
– Standard Sasquatch Package: 35-inch LT315/70R17 Rugged-Terrain tires, high-clearance fender flares, electronic-locking front and rear axles and HOSS 1.0 suspension.
– Optional trail aids: Ford Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, and Trail One-Pedal Drive (2.7L with 10-speed automatic only).

Interior

– Plaid cloth seats: Vintage ’60s feel, with heated front seats.
– Oxford White instrument panel: A contrasting retro dash.
– Two 12-inch screens: A digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
– Pro Power Onboard 400W: A 400-watt outlet for camping gear.
– Auxiliary switches: Six overhead switches with pre-run wiring for off-road lights or a winch.

What we hope to see in 2028: the 10-speed automatic option on the 2.3L, Avalanche Gray paint, 17-inch Magnetic Gray Mid Gloss wheels for Sasquatch-equipped models, and a one-year Ford Connectivity Package with Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM 360L for three years, a battery jumpstart kit and a branded tool kit.

Specification Category	2-Door Heritage Edition	4-Door Heritage Edition
Starting MSRP	$52,125	$52,125
Standard Engine	2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 (300 hp / 325 lb-ft)	2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 (300 hp / 325 lb-ft)
Available Engine	2.7L EcoBoost® V6 (330 hp / 415 lb-ft)	2.7L EcoBoost® V6 (330 hp / 415 lb-ft)
Transmissions	7-Speed Manual / 10-Speed Auto	7-Speed Manual / 10-Speed Auto
Drive System	Advanced 4x4 w/ Automatic On-Demand	Advanced 4x4 w/ Automatic On-Demand
Max Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs	3,500 lbs
Overall Length	173.2 in	189.5 in – 189.9 in
Wheelbase	100.4 in	116.1 in
Overall Width	86.6 in	86.3 in – 86.6 in
Overall Height	71.4 in	74.1 in – 78.6 in
Ground Clearance	11.5 in	11.5 in
Max Cargo Capacity	Up to 52 cu ft	Up to 83 cu ft
Curb Weight Range	4,871 lbs – 5,020 lbs	4,871 lbs – 5,020 lbs

2028 Ford Bronco Safety

Safety is supported by high-strength steel construction and the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of active safety technology:

– 360-degree camera with Trail View: Shows conditions around the vehicle accurately in critical terrain.
– Automatic Emergency Braking and Blind Spot Monitoring: Help drivers avoid collisions on the road and in parking areas.

2028 Ford Bronco Price

Estimated starting prices in the United States:

Bronco Big Bend: about $42,995
Bronco Outer Banks: about $47,000
Bronco Badlands: about $50,000
Bronco Heritage Edition: about $52,125
Bronco Sport (refreshed/hybrid): about $31,000 to $40,000
Bronco Raptor: about $81,990

These figures are estimates, and Ford has not confirmed final pricing.

2028 Ford Bronco Release Date

The 2028 Bronco and Bronco Sport (including the expected hybrid option) are estimated to reach dealers from late 2027 to early 2028. The next-generation Bronco is reportedly scheduled to enter production in late 2029, as a 2029 or 2030 model.

Verdict

The 2028 Ford Bronco remains the benchmark for American adventure SUVs, and it earns that spot by being genuinely good on the road as well as off it. Independent front suspension keeps it stable and comfortable on the highway, a rarity next to solid-axle rivals like the Jeep Wrangler, while the frameless doors, removable roof, Sasquatch hardware and SYNC 4 off-road telemetry make it a real weekend warrior. The Off-Roadeo school is a smart bonus.

The trade-offs are fair ones. Expect about 20 mpg combined, 15 mpg in the Raptor, and premium fuel is recommended for full power. The Raptor’s estimated price is steep, and the next full redesign is reportedly still a couple of years out, with the hybrid also expected rather than confirmed.

For most buyers, the Big Bend is the sweet spot, with estimated pricing in the low $40,000s. Choose the Badlands for serious off-roading, the Heritage Edition for retro style, and the Raptor for ultimate performance. The Bronco Sport, with its expected hybrid, looks set to step in for the Escape. Few SUVs make a daily commute and a rock trail feel this equally at home.