Ford is quietly launching a dramatically different version of its iconic Bronco – but not in the United States. Instead, the all-new Bronco Basecamp is debuting in China, and it offers substantially more power and advanced tech for a price that rivals the smaller, less capable Bronco Sport sold in North America.
The China Market Advantage
Ford’s sales in China have plummeted over the last decade, falling from 1.2 million units in 2014 to under 200,000 last year. The company is now aggressively tailoring models to Chinese preferences in a bid to regain market share. The Bronco Basecamp, developed through a joint venture with Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC), is a prime example of this strategy.
While the design evokes the Bronco family, it’s not simply a rebadged American model. Ford is betting that by delivering a compelling package for local tastes, it can reverse its disastrous sales decline.
Pricing and Performance: A Stark Contrast
The Bronco Basecamp starts at 229,800 yuan ($32,300 USD), with top trims reaching 282,800 yuan ($39,800 USD). This pricing is remarkably similar to the US-market Bronco Sport, which begins at $31,695 and peaks at $40,115 before taxes. However, the Chinese version delivers far more for the money.
The American Bronco Sport offers either a weak 1.5-liter three-cylinder or a marginally better 2.0-liter turbo four. The Basecamp, on the other hand, is available in two configurations:
- Fully Electric: Boasting a 105.4 kWh battery and dual motors generating 445 hp, with a range of up to 404 miles (650 km).
- Range-Extender: Combines a 1.5-liter turbo engine with dual electric motors and a 43.7 kWh battery, producing 416 hp with 137 miles (220 km) of electric-only range, and a total range of 758 miles (1,220 km).
This means Chinese buyers get a powerful, long-range EV or a hybrid with incredible range for a price comparable to a less capable American gasoline vehicle.
Size and Tech: A Step Above
The Bronco Basecamp is physically larger than both the American Bronco and Bronco Sport. Its 116.1-inch wheelbase matches the full-size US Bronco, while its overall length of 197.8 inches exceeds both American models by a significant margin.
But the differences extend beyond size. The Basecamp comes standard with:
- A roof-mounted LiDAR system for advanced driver assistance.
- Over 30 sensors and cameras for enhanced safety.
- A massive 15.6-inch infotainment display.
- A digital gauge cluster.
- An enormous 70-inch head-up display.
These features are absent or optional on most American Bronco models, underscoring the technological gap.
No Plans for Export
Despite the Bronco Basecamp’s appeal, Ford has no current plans to export it to North America. The company has not even hinted at the possibility, leaving US buyers to wonder what could have been.
For now, the Bronco Basecamp remains a China-exclusive offering, highlighting the diverging strategies Ford is pursuing in different markets. It’s a reminder that global automakers often prioritize regional preferences over consistency, even when it means leaving loyal customers behind.
