2026 Ford Bronco Breakdown: The New Features Chicagoland Drivers Need to Know

Ford is marking six decades of Bronco history with a special 60th Anniversary model that blends retro style with modern attitude. You get red-and-white paint, bucking bronco logos placed with precision, and “60” badging stamped across the cabin and exterior. The Bronco lineup itself stays focused on capability, but this anniversary edition adds a little Chicago-style swagger. It rides on a Sasquatch-equipped Outer Banks setup, so you get the high-clearance stance and chunky tires right out of the box.

If you drive around areas like Palos Hills or Starved Rock, you’ll feel the difference in the way the suspension absorbs dips and ruts. The core Bronco trims return as well, giving you everything from the simple, two-door Base to the sand-flinging Raptor.

Here’s your first look at the new highlights:

• 60th Anniversary Edition
• Red and white exterior theme
• Bucking bronco badges
• “60” interior and exterior badging
• Sasquatch equipment on the special edition

2026 Ford Bronco: Trim Updates and Lineup Breakdown

Driving in Chicagoland demands versatility, and the 2026 Bronco lineup gives you options for open-road cruising, trail exploring, and winter commuting. The Base and Big Bend trims keep things simple with the 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost engine and your choice of manual or automatic. Outer Banks moves upscale, offering the 330 hp 2.7L EcoBoost and access to the 60th Anniversary package.

Badlands continues to be the sweet spot for hardcore off-roaders, and Heritage Edition mixes old-school vibes with modern engineering. The big news sits at the top: the Stroppe Edition and Raptor stay unapologetically aggressive. Stroppe gives you HOSS 3.0 with FOX dampers, and Raptor brings the 418 hp twin-turbo V6 with HOSS 4.0. Chicago winters will not get the last word on either of them.

These are the major trim details you can expect:

• Base and Big Bend with 300 hp 2.3L EcoBoost
• Outer Banks with available 2.7L EcoBoost
• Badlands with off-road gearing and manual availability
• Heritage Edition with retro accents
• Stroppe Edition with HOSS 3.0
• Raptor with 418 hp EcoBoost V6 and HOSS 4.0

2026 Ford Bronco Capability and Performance Enhancements

The 2026 Bronco still treats the outdoors like a playground. You get up to seven G.O.A.T. Modes that let the SUV adapt to mud, snow, sand, and tight gravel paths. The updated suspension tuning brings more composure on rough pavement, which comes in handy when city streets get chewed up after a freeze-thaw cycle.

Trail tech gives you tools like Trail Turn Assist and Trail Control that help you conquer messy environments. Ground clearance reaches up to 13.1 inches, and water fording hits 37 inches. If you tow small boats out to the Calumet River or haul gear up north, the maximum towing rating of 4,500 pounds covers most weekend needs.

Here’s a snapshot of the Bronco’s muscle:

• Up to 418 hp
• Seven available G.O.A.T. Modes
• HOSS suspension systems
• Up to 13.1 inches of ground clearance
• Up to 37 inches of water fording
• Max towing of 4,500 pounds

The 2026 Ford Bronco’s Interior, Tech, and Customization

Inside, the 2026 Bronco balances rugged practicality with smart comfort. Marine-grade vinyl seats and washable floors make cleanup painless after a muddy day near Kettle Moraine. Higher trims offer heated seats and a heated steering wheel, which you’ll appreciate during a February cold snap.

The tech upgrades are front and center. A 12-inch display comes standard, running wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 360-Degree Camera is a real advantage in tight parking garages around the Loop. The Ford Connectivity Package keeps your devices online and provides apps and maps through the onboard system. Custom roof choices, removable doors, heritage colors, and factory accessories let you build the Bronco exactly the way you want it.

These upgrades elevate your everyday drive:

• 12-inch center display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available 360-Degree Camera
• Ford Connectivity Package
• Removable doors
• Multiple roof and color combinations

If you want the newest Bronco on Chicago pavement or your favorite trail, Ford of Homewood has the trims, tech, and options ready to explore.