Could the Chinese-made Ford Bronco be available in the Philippines?

In China, the Ford Bronco has long been a symbol of rugged American automotive prowess, but its price tag has been a significant roadblock for many enthusiasts. A brand new Ford Bronco, fresh off the assembly line, would set you back anywhere from $96,200 to $165,000 in China. To put that into perspective, this is more than double the cost of the same off-roader in the United States. It was a glaring disparity that left many Chinese consumers dreaming of owning this iconic SUV. In the Philipines, gray market Ford Broncos also costs a pretty penny

However, the Blue Oval has finally found a solution to this pricing dilemma, and it comes in the form of a locally produced Bronco designed specifically for the People's Republic. The unveiling of this Chinese Bronco is accompanied by a set of first-look photos, and upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the vehicle bears minimal alterations when compared to its American counterpart.

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has graciously shared the first images of this Chinese-produced Bronco, and keen observers will note a subtle change in the form of a small Ford emblem gracing the front grille, positioned just above the familiar "Bronco" lettering. According to the specifications provided by MIIT, the Chinese Bronco measures approximately 4826 mm in length, 2070 mm in width, and 1988 mm in height, featuring a wheelbase spanning 2949 mm. A cursory comparison with the US model reveals that the Chinese variant is marginally wider and taller, although this may be attributed to differences in wheel sizes and wheel arches.

Under the hood of the Chinese Bronco, reports from Car News China suggest the presence of a 2.3-liter engine. This powerplant, produced under the Changan Ford joint venture, churns out 271 hp and 455 Nm of torque. While it may be slightly less potent than its American counterpart, boasting 300 hp and 440 Nm of torque, it's still no slouch. Notably, the four-cylinder turbo engine is said to be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, as opposed to the US Bronco's 10-speed automatic gearbox. As for the interior, there are no significant overhauls planned.

Production of the Chinese Bronco is slated to commence in early 2024, offering a glimmer of hope to enthusiasts eager to explore the country's diverse terrain

The MIIT-released photos depict two distinct four-door Bronco variants, leading to speculation that the two-door version may not be offered in the Chinese market. While details regarding trim levels and equipment packages remain somewhat scarce at this point, it's clear that the Chinese automotive landscape is about to witness the arrival of a more accessible and locally produced Ford Bronco, much to the delight of off-road enthusiasts across China.

This could also be the opportunity for Ford Philippines to appease off-road enthusiasts in the Philippines to get the much-revered off-roader in the market. Let’s wait and see.