If you’re of a certain vintage in life, like me, you remember the lust-worthy Ford Eddie Bauer trims offered on their various SUVs, trucks and even their Aerostar. These two-tone beauties paired Ford with the outdoor-themed retailer who probably had their peak popularity at the same time in the mid to late 90s (yes, the late 1900’s according to my kids).
Ford is back at it with their Bronco vehicle line, but this time they swap out one Pacific Northwest-based outfitter for another in Filson. The Bronco Filson goes beyond surface level badging to bring a new blend of off-road performance and refinement to the lineup.
While top dog, er horse?, status still belongs to the Bronco Raptor, the Bronco Filson doesn’t seem that far behind. The Filson shares the Bronco’s 3.0-liter turbo V6 engine, with a “specific tune” which I take to mean a bit de-rated. For lineup comparisons the Raptor-tune 3.0 V6 pumps out 418 horsepower and and 440 lb-ft of torque, while the Stroppe and other Broncos make do with an optional 2.7-liter 330 horsepower unit.
Not content for on-road pleasantries, the Bronco Filson also comes standard with the Sasquatch Package, which includes appropriately chonky 35″ all-terrain tires, Fox shocks and locking diffs front and rear. This definitely has the chops to handle whatever you’re going to throw it into. But its on-road manners are also enhanced through a stiffer structure, which allowed for a slightly softer suspension setup. Bronco Filson is quieter too, by a claimed 20%, with acoustic glass and improved airflow, although let’s face it you’re still punching a brick through the wind.
Step inside, now with the help of power-deploying running boards, and you will find a suitably Filson-inspired cabin in terms of color and materials. Many of the surfaces are now leather-wrapped, including the dash and entry assist grips. The front seats are also ventilated now, a Bronco first.
While the Filson trim intends to stay in the lineup (will it move to other vehicles perhaps?) a limited First Edition will be offered as orders open this Fall, with pricing expecting to start in the $75,000 range. Does this tempt you from the world of Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens, Land Rover Defenders or Lexus GX Overtrails? Does this negate the need for a rumored Lincoln Bronco?
Leave a Reply