What’s New in the 2026 Ford Bronco? Features and Upgrades To Look Forward To

Ford’s legendary off-road vehicle returns with major improvements that build on everything we love about the 2026 Bronco. Adventure seekers across Brewster, New York, and the Hudson Valley region are going to be impressed with the fresh technology, boosted performance, and comfort upgrades that make this 2026 model perfect for tackling our area’s wild terrain. Come to see us at Brewster Ford to explore everything this new model has to offer and find out how we can help you to finance the purchase of a brand new Ford Bronco.

Breaking Down the 2026 Ford Bronco’s Most Anticipated Changes

The Ford Bronco redesign introduces some significant updates on the 2025 model year. The front end receives a major makeover — a wider grille flaunting bold BRONCO lettering plus LED light strips that’ll help you spot every rock and root on dark trails. These changes enhance the truck’s profile while making those late-night Hudson Valley backroad adventures much safer.

The suspension has been upgraded to include Bilstein 8112 DSA+ coilovers that feature serious technology advancements, including a 2.65-inch threaded body, a 60mm main piston, and internal ZoneControl CR to improve comfort. Ford will also be introducing a Bronco hybrid option that promises both power and fuel savings, while its updated SYNC 5 system delivers significant improvements over the previous version.

If you’re a daily driver, you’ll really appreciate the bigger fender flares: not just for show, these will allow you to fit wider tires for better traction and prevent trail mud from coating your doors after rainy weekend trips. The hardtop panels have been completely redesigned with more robust cross beams and lighter latches.

Powertrain and Performance Improvements

Ford has improved the engine lineup, with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four engine now delivering better torque tuning for towing duties and improved fuel economy. When you’re driving over Hudson Valley rocks or threading through tight forest paths, the refined low-end torque provides greater control and precision.

If you want more power, the twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 engine brings stronger low-end muscle for serious hill climbing. The real game-changer, though, will be the hybrid powertrain that Ford is introducing, with the potential to deliver in excess of 30 mpg combined, a big advance on the current gas engine performances of 17-19 mpg in the city and 18-21 mpg on the highway. This amounts to a significant improvement when you’re commuting to work Monday through Friday, then hitting the trails on weekends.

Off-Road Capability and Trail Technology

Trail technology receives some smart upgrades without losing the Bronco’s rugged soul. The updated Terrain Management System handles steep descents and climbs with more confidence, perfect for our rolling Hudson Valley landscape and rocky outcrops.

Ford has improved its camera specifications, too. Badlands, Wildtrak, and Raptor models feature crystal-clear front and rear trail cameras for navigating tight spots without scratching your paint. Fox and Bilstein shocks with front coilover designs make rough trails way more comfortable on Badlands, Wildtrak, and Raptor models.

The Bronco will still be able to wade through 33.5 inches of water, and its 11.6-inch ground clearance means that most obstacles won’t even slow you down. Every Bronco is fitted with the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite that includes blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, collision prevention, and automatic high beams. Whether you’re exploring New York’s backcountry or running errands in town, these features provide the ideal support.

Base vs. Premium Trim Comparisons

The trim lineup maintains four of its familiar favorites: the Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Raptor models. But select trims now offer hybrid variants. Budget-minded trail enthusiasts will appreciate the Big Bend’s rugged 18-inch wheels and carbonized gray grille styling. And if you’re looking for something even classier, the Outer Banks delivers body-color painted fender flares, leather seating, and heated front seats that are absolute essentials during Hudson Valley winters. For further cold-weather comfort, heated seats and steering wheels now feature on midlevel trims.

The 2026 model blends classic Bronco character with modern innovation so that you can add full-grain leather luxury or adventure-ready rugged interiors. Ford also provides comprehensive warranty coverage: a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty, plus five years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain. If you do need any work done, our service center is here to help.

Bronco Raptor Updates and Availability

The top-of-the-line Bronco Raptor retains the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine that delivers 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque, and acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. If you need towing power, the Raptor will haul 4,500 pounds — 1,000 pounds more than standard Broncos — which makes it ideal for pulling boats or ATVs to your favorite Hudson Valley spots.

Technology takes a major step forward with the Ford Bronco head-up display now available on Wildtrak and Raptor models. Speed, compass readings, and trail angles are all projected right onto your windshield so you never have to avert your eyes. High-resolution cameras make threading through tight spots less stressful, and the upgraded Fox and Bilstein shocks make even the roughest trails smooth sailing. Fuel economy sits at 15 mpg in the city and 16 mpg on the highway, with roughly 350 miles of highway range.

Interior Comfort and Technology Advancements

The cabin achieves the perfect balance between rugged and refined styling. SYNC 5’s 12-inch touch screen operates twice as fast as the previous system, thanks to a more powerful processing chip, so that maps load instantly, touch-screen responses are rapid, and trail map streaming happens without any annoying delays. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so your phone connects automatically for hands-free calls, messaging, and app access. Storage solutions have been improved with reinforced inserts designed for outdoor gear, such as ski poles, fishing equipment, or hiking essentials, a provision that Hudson Valley adventurers will appreciate.

Exterior Design Evolution: Bold New Styling Elements

For the 2026 model, Ford has delivered the biggest visual transformation since it revived the Bronco nameplate. The wider front end creates a more commanding road presence while improving aerodynamic efficiency at highway speeds. The redesigned grille featuring bold BRONCO lettering and integrated LED lighting strips makes a serious statement while improving nighttime trail visibility.

Personalization options receive a boost with new body-color accent packages for fender flares, mirror caps, and tailgate trim — now available in matching or contrasting finishes. You can customize your ride without going overboard with aftermarket modifications. These styling updates make the 2026 model look decidedly modern while preserving that unmistakable Bronco DNA we all recognize and love.

Your Next Adventure Awaits With the 2026 Bronco

The 2026 Ford Bronco delivers a genuine leap forward with its improved powertrains, smarter trail technology, more comfortable interiors, and bolder styling. Safety performance stays strong — the 2025 model earned an 8.6/10 safety rating from U.S. News & World Report, setting high expectations for the new model year.

Whether dealing with snow-covered winter roads or challenging weekend trails, this truck handles both situations equally well. If you’re ready to check out the 2026 Bronco, contact our team at Brewster Ford to schedule a test-drive, discuss pricing options, or secure your spot on our waiting list.

Images from ford.com

Posted in Ford Models | No Comments »