In a world where SUVs are everywher and all look alike, the unexpected arrival of a true American 4×4 brings originality and authenticity with it. Obviously, our European cities narrow streets don’t suit it and it’s more its off-road capabilities that will seduce professionals punters in mountainous areas. We tested it mainly on road, though.

On the outside, the Ford Bronco is quite loud : its Hot Pepper Red bodywork and numerous black plastic accessories ranging from the roof bars to the huge rearview mirrors, not forgetting the running boards or the spare wheel wrapped in a bag bearing the car’s famous logo. Shorter, wider and lower than a Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco sits better on the road and this will inevitably play a part in how we feel about it. The 504 liters boot isn’t that practical : access is only through a side opening door, while the window opens upwards. There’s plenty of room for two people in the rear but any third passenger will have to make do with a large central housing. The doors and roof are removable but our DIY skills not being very good, we didn’t dare take them apart.

I like it

Facing the driver is a typically american dashboard but nonetheless, it’s pretty modern. The thick rimmed steering wheel is pleasing to grab and features the usual buttons to adjust sound volume, the cruise control and the dashboard display. Equipment is lavish : electric seats, reversing camera and cross-traffic alert. The large central 10-inch screen displays the GPS, media system sources and important information for off-road driving, such as the wading angle or verticality. It works with Ford’s familiar SYNC4 system.

Quite clever

In 4×4 mode, the number of transmission settings available is quite astonishing. On top of the usual 2H, 4H and 4L positions, various road-oriented modes can be selected through the GOAT button : Normal, Eco or Sport. For rougher areas, there’s Slippery, Mud and Sand. We tested the Bronco mainly on roads and motorways and it must be said that it gives a good feeling behind the wheel thanks to its electric-powered steering. The 2.7 V6 petrol engine produces 335 bhp and a 536 Nm torque which are adequate to handle the vehicle’s 2348 kg.

I don’t like it

Although Americans still favor big petrol engines, we are convinced that a diesel lump is the best choice for such a large car not intended for Europe. Unfortunately, the Ford Bronco is only available with a petrol V6… It is very quiet and even silent its gas-guzzling habits are a real problem, especially if you add this up to all the taxes levied in Belgium ! Not sure we’ll be seeing many of these on Belgian roads.

Why I buy it

Broncos will only be available in limited numbers… if you’re desperate to get one, break your piggy bank. The Outer Banks is €77,170, while the Badlands we tested is €81,170. That would land you a highly capable vehicle able to climb trees that is quite exclusive in Europe at the same time. Its go anywhere nature is real and the various drive modes make it possible to dash through the any muddy pond or tackle a particularly steep slope. It remains to be seen who will really benefit from this 4X4 Ford’s capabilities, given that an SUV is more than enough for a lot of people. With its modern infotainment system, very good comfort and torquey engine, the Bronco is not afraid to swallow up highway miles. The steering feedback is pretty good and its running gear use good old proved formulas.

Why I don’t buy it

The Ford Bronco is typically american… it loves petrol unashamedly. Moving such a heavy machine at a decent pace means frequent refuellings. At the end of our 200 miles test, average fuel consumption was 20 mpg. That means you’ll need quite affluent to drive one once the tax and purchase price have been paid. Don’t expect much boot space or rear-seat roominess, either. If you like to enjoy sunny weather, the Bronco roof and doors are off in a few minutes and it twill enthuse children without them ! You can trust us on that as we drove around in a hood and doorless Willys Jeep when we were young ! (Translation: Dimitri Urbain)