So apparently Ford is floating the concept of a new Bronco. I am 100% behind this idea, and I have some winning ideas that Ford can use as long as they give me a new Bronco for my efforts.
First, make a diesel version. No one is going to want a top-heavy SUV that goes fast, so diesel is fine. If I could get a fuel-efficient F-150 or Bronco as a daily driver, I would do so in a heartbeat. My old Ranger was very good in adverse conditions and off road, but it got at best 17mpg. My new job is 41 miles away, and 17mpg just won't cut it. If I could get a diesel bronco with a MANUAL 6spd, 4x4 that got say 25mpg, I would trade off my Mazda 6 in one millisecond.
Second, make a SHTF/TEOTWAWKI version with the diesel motor and manual transmission, and nice tinfoil hat accessories like an A/C 110v outlet (for charging a laptop/gps/mini DVD), slightly higher suspension and slightly beefy tires (not so aggressive that they generate unbearable road noise). Then add some extra lighting, and an oversized alternator to power all of the extras. A snorkel kit and waterproof wiring harness would be awesome, and I would pay a bit more to get it.
Third, price it under a Jeep Wrangler. I have an Army buddy who once said that Jeep stood for "Just Empty Every Pocket". It doesn't have to be WAY less than a Wrangler, just make it less, and price my SHTF version just under the Wrangler Rubicon.
You're welcome, Ford. I just made you another several billion dollars. Now go DO IT!
2 comments:
Isn't going to happen.
At least not in two-door form.
Two door vehicles have fallen victim to the focus group idea that because a simple majority of people want/need more doors, everything should have more doors.
Ford would rather be moderately appealing to a large group of people than hugely appealing to a small group of people.
The only thing I can't work out is why Ford performance vehicles still come with sticks - sometimes only sticks, as in the Mustang GT500, Focus ST and Fiesta ST.
Clearly, there remain some "individual" individuals at Ford that need taken care of.
Jeep seems to be able to find people who want a capable 4x4. Shame that Ford won't try to steal some Jeep customers and instead cater to the mommy-wagon crowd.
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