If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It: Ford’s Bronco Mid-Cycle Refresh

Ford’s sixth-generation off-roader has been around since 2021, so a mid-cycle refresh for the 2025 model year is not a surprise. Usually manufacturers introduce new sheet metal, change the interior, add features, or make improvements to the powertrain. So, when Ford invited us to their Proving Grounds in Romeo, Michigan on a rainy Monday morning to look at some Broncos, we were intrigued. It turns out, though, that Ford decided to change very little on the Bronco.

“Our customers asked for a smarter, better equipped, and more stylish Bronco that was more livable everyday and just as capable of off-road adventures,” explained Bronco Brand Manager Jason Hyde. “We responded with new standard technology and comfort features, heritage-inspired trims and options, and a durable exterior protection option.” So, what does that mean exactly?

For all trim levels, the changes are minor and mostly involve the interior. Ford, like so many automakers these days, is going all-in on screens. A 12-inch digital display replaces today’s 8.0-inch display and physical speedometer. Other changes include second-row air conditioning vents in the center console on four-door Broncos, extra interior lighting integrated into the roll bar, and more sound deadening. On vehicles so equipped, the Bang & Olufsen audio system receives two extra speakers for a total of 12. Pretty exciting stuff.

If you were hoping for some standard exterior updates, you’ll have to hit up the options list. Ford touted the new Black Appearance package, which makes the mirror caps, fender flares, door handles, grille, and removable hardtop, you guessed it, black. A factory-installed matte paint-protection film is available on all non-Raptor Broncos. The film will certainly be chosen more for its looks rather than for its protection from trail scrapes. Ford also showed off the retro-styled Free Wheeling and the Stroppe editions, which we reported on last month.

Speaking of editions, Ford demoted the entry-level off-road Black Diamond edition to an option package on the lower-end Big Bend trim. The Everglades edition will be gone entirely. The good news is that the no-frills base Bronco, which was on hiatus last year, is back, 16-inch steel wheels and all. And yes, you can still option a seven-speed manual to back the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine.

Ford’s Bronco configurator is now live. The 2025 Base model starts at $40,585 with $2590 of destination and acquisition fees factored in. Big Bend models start at $42,960 with the same fees, and the top-of-the-line Raptor begins at an eye-watering $92,920.