Lucas Bell 
We know for a fact that the Ford Bronco SUV is set to end its 24-year sales hiatus this spring, but Ford has done a masterful job at keeping information about the rugged off-roader out of our hands. That being said, digging through USPTO filings has helped us try and piece together what Ford might have in mind for the legendary nameplate. Now however, we have our first few pieces of actual Bronco product to look at.
First came an image that reportedly shows the headlight assembly from the upcoming Ford Bronco, courtesy of the Bronco6G forum. The photo was supposedly taken by someone who is working on the reborn off-roader, which was then shared by a forum member. The design of the HID headlight unit is an interesting combination of retro and modern, which is in line with how we think the truck itself will be styled.
Shortly after the headlight image was posted, another photo appeared on Bronco6G related to the smaller “Baby” Bronco that is expected to launch after the full-size SUV. This photo shows a grille and headlight assembly that is more oval shaped than that found on the full-size Bronco, and it bears a lot of resemblance to the images that leaked from Ford’s annual dealer meeting in Las Vegas last year. If you look toward the center of the part, the Bronco nameplate is clearly visible, further cementing the authenticity of this image.
Not much is known about the junior-sized Bronco at this point, but it we have seen it testing its off-road abilities at the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Ford is likely aiming the Baby Bronco to compete with the likes of the Jeep Compass and Toyota Rav4, while the larger Ford Bronco will compete against the more traditional off-road ready SUVs.
We expect more information will trickle out as the Ford Bronco launch draws nearer, but until then USPTO filings will continue to help inform our thoughts as to what we should expect. As of now, we won’t be surprised to see the Bronco launch with features like removable doors and body panels ala the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator pick-up, as well as a roadster-style removable roof.
