The sixth-generation Ford Bronco debuted for the 2021 model year following a quarter-century absence, and that return was greeted with open arms, to say the least. Since then, the Ford Bronco has carved out a niche in the crowded off-road-focused SUV market, though somewhat surprisingly, it hasn’t yet received any sort of mid-cycle refresh. That continues to be the case with the 2026 Ford Bronco, which is only receiving a few updates for the new model year, meaning that we’ll have to wait at least another year to see more significant changes.
Nearly a year after the sixth-generation Ford Bronco debuted in 2021, a report surfaced claiming that the SUV was set to receive a refresh for the 2024 model year, but that obviously never happened. It was followed by another report last September that said the refreshed Bronco would arrive in the first half of 2025, but now, that point has also passed. Last week, the 2026 Ford Bronco 60th Anniversary Package debuted with a few special touches, and yet, the lineup isn’t getting any notable updates that would constitute a full-blown refresh.
In fact, aside from that new package that pays homage to the very first version of the SUV, the 2026 Ford Bronco lineup is only getting very minor changes such as optional A-pillar mounted grab handles designed to help out in terms of ingress and egress. Thus, that means the 2027 model year is the earlier that we can expect to see the Bronco receive a more notable update, and Ford may even opt to push that back further.
When the refreshed Ford Bronco does eventually debut, it’s expected to do so not only with the typical exterior styling updates and interior tweaks, but also, some sort of hybrid powertrain option. That could be an extended range electric vehicle (EREV) powertrain, which combines a large battery pack and electric motors with a gas generator, providing what is essentially the best of both worlds in terms of range and refueling speed. In fact, a brand new Bronco model just debuted for China that offers both EV and EREV options, making that seemingly more likely for the U.S. market as well.
Posting a big improvement in terms of scoring.
It isn't the first time, either.
The mid-size pickup has become a staple in that region.
An improvement from last year's test results.
The company is set to debut its next new model.
It still holds the lead year-to-date, however.
