Ever since the sixth-generation Ford Bronco debuted for the 2021 model year, many have been waiting patiently for a hybrid version of the rugged SUV. Such a combination seems inevitable, after all, given Ford’s big hybrid push and the fact that its direct competitor – the Jeep Wrangler – is already sold in 4xe plug-in hybrid form, and has been for years now. However, as we enter the 2024 model year, there’s been no indication that a Bronco hybrid is in the works yet – though the recently-revealed Ford 2.3L EcoBoost Hybrid powertrain would be the perfect fit for such a model.
The Ford 2.3L EcoBoost Hybrid was unveiled in the brand-new 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV just this past week, electrifying an engine that’s used in both the Ranger and Bronco already. Thus, that same powertrain would apparently be an easy fit for the Bronco, particularly since those two models share the Ford T6 platform and are built alongside each other at the Michigan Assembly plant.
With fuel economy and emissions standards on the rise, it seems almost inevitable that the rather inefficient Bronco is destined to add a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and/or all-electric model to its lineup, though it certainly isn’t a given. In fact, the Ranger PHEV isn’t slated to be sold in the U.S. – at least for now – and is only headed for Europe and Australia, the former of which is a hot spot for plug-ins.
Regardless, the Wrangler 4xe has been a smash hit with consumers in the U.S. since its launch, and that model is also receiving a refresh for the 2024 model year that expands the number of PHEV offerings in the lineup to include the new, entry-level Sport S 4xe, while all 4xe models are getting what Jeep calls the “Power Box,” which supplies 30 amps of electricity via four 120-volt outlets.
Thus, a Bronco hybrid packing the newly electrified 2.3L EcoBoost-based powertrain would be the perfect way to help it keep up with its most fierce competitor, all while offering those seeking a bit more efficiency precisely that. And, while FoMoCo is at it, it could also utilize the same powertrain in the Ford Explorer, which is offered in PHEV form in Europe, but not in the U.S.
We’ll have more on the 2024 Ford Bronco soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Bronco news, Bronco Raptor news, and ongoing Ford news coverage.
Comments
No! Do not turn the record setting, selling Bronco into a milktoast vehicle by adding the hybrid or EV power trains to the lineup! Not now! No need to! Ford only has so many build slots available and we’d hate to see any of those slots wasted just to satisfy a minuscule amount of so-called buyers. Our local Jeep dealer has a decent selection of Wranglers on their lot. That is until you get out to look at them! 9/10 are the 4xe versions! You might see them at the malls, but rarely on the trails! No need to cater to the “wanna-look-like we” off-road crowd that much! Vanity sells vehicles. If they want to look the part, make them buy the real version of the Bronco! Past sales figures prove that Ford will sell every one they can build. Besides, that group usually follows online trends and will no doubt be looking for the next influencers’ hot trend in a year or two. Do them a favor and make them buy a real Bronco today, so they don’t have to bend over for the (lack of) resale value tomorrow!
ah no, the bronco doesn’t need more weight and complexity.
nothing in fords “electrified” lineup does well in sales.
As long as they don’t leave the 2 door out aquation.
Bronco’s owners don’t like it. Great!
As I have said it before, this should have been in the Lincoln Corsair (at least 1 year ago). Cannot see how a Grand Highlander Max with 362hp can go faster than a Lincoln. But hey, it’s Ford with its sofa CEO.
When FORD see a TOYOTA, they retract in its own territory. Job well done, indeed. Even a Mazda CX-90 will run in a circle on any of the Ford luxury car.
Bravo, you got yourself a real “sanctuary”! It’s not “zoom zoom” anymore, but yes “sanctuary”. I think a Corolla can get you “sanctuary” too, except now even a Corolla can go GR.
This is what I’m holding out for. Really does feel like a no brainer. If they can find a way to squeeze it into a 2-door, even better.