FORD Philippines released last Friday, the highly anticipated all-new Bronco, in the Sasquatch package, marking its return into serious off-roading in the Philippines. Not to be shadowed by the bucking SUV is Ford’s latest Mustang. The sports coupe was publicly revealed a few weeks ago but has been only now officially launched.
“The SUV that started it all for Ford is finally here. We are excited that Filipinos get to finally experience the off-road performance of the all-new Bronco,” Mike Breen, managing director, Ford Philippines said.
The Bronco is not new in the Philippines. It was sold by Ford dealers in the late 60s to the 70s in the first-generation form. It was a robust, and real offroader. This newest Bronco marks the return of the iconic off-road SUV to the now less rugged Philippine roads.
“I took my dad’s Bronco everywhere,” said Tom Hofileña, an Ilonggo and now a resident of Palo Alto, in California. “It was technically the first SUV, and I remember it to be very spartan and rugged. No airconditioning and very raw. I am glad the new Bronco carries the same traits.”
The unveiling took place at a launch event in Okada Manila, where apart from the media and influencers, dealers, members of various Ford SUV clubs were invited.
The five-door SUV, with its bold lines and striking angles, is designed to turn heads both on and off the road. Ford Philippines has confirmed that the all-new Bronco will be onlu available in the Outer Banks variant with the Sasquatch Package, starting at P4.998M. Additionally, a complimentary Peace of Mind service inspection package is included to provide owners with a worry-free ownership experience.
Hakam Hamarneh, product development engineer for Ford International Markets Group explained that the Bronoc is equipped with a powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, and delivers 335 PS of power and 555 Nm of torque.
During the short product presentation explaining both the history and DNA of the Bronco, it was very interesting to note that its benchmark was the Polaris RZR, and extreme off-road vehicle which was built on a tubular frame and was able of tackling various terrain and weather.
“Just tell the Bronco where you need to go and it’ll take you there,” Hamarneh said confidently as he explained the Advanced 4×4 system with its G.O.A.T. Modes–short for Goes Over Any Type of Terrain–ensures optimal performance in various terrains and weather conditions.
The Sasquatch Package further enhances the Bronco’s off-road capabilities with features like the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system, electronic-locking front and rear axles, high-clearance suspension, and 35-inch mud-terrain tires.
Inside, the Bronco boasts a spacious and comfortable interior with leather-trimmed seats and ample legroom. The SYNC 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, enhanced voice recognition, and a 360-degree camera adds to the driving experience, while the premium B&O Sound System with 10 speakers provides immersive audio.
Safety is also a priority with the inclusion of Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology, a suite of driver-assist technologies that includes features like Auto High-Beam Headlights, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.
The all-new Bronco is available for online reservation through the Ford Philippines website and is expected to arrive at dealerships starting in mid-June 2024. It comes in a variety of colors, including Eruption Green, Race Red, Cactus Gray, Oxford White, Azure Gray, and Shadow Black.
“With its iconic design and rugged terrain capabilities, adventure seekers are in for a thrill as it can take on extreme conditions in the great outdoors.
Ford didn’t stop with the Sasquatch. It also officially released its iconic sports coupe, the 7th-generation Mustang.
The new Mustang comes in two variants: the 5.0L GT Premium Fastback and the 2.3L EcoBoost Premium Fastback, with starting retail prices of P3.999M and P3.499M respectively.
Both variants boast enhanced performance features, including the MagneRide Damping System for improved comfort and control, Brembo brakes for superior stopping power, and a Quad Chrome Tip Exhaust with Active Valve Functionality that allows drivers to adjust the exhaust note. They also come with 19-inch aluminum wheels with unique designs for each variant and RECARO leather-trimmed sport seats.
The GT Premium Fastback variant is powered by a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 engine paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, producing 493 PS of power and 567 Nm of torque. The EcoBoost Premium Fastback variant features a 2.3L EcoBoost engine with the same transmission, delivering 319 PS of power and 475 Nm of torque.
A notable addition to the 7th Gen Mustang is a segment-first electronic drift brake, designed to enhance rear-wheel-drive drifting capabilities. This feature is standard with the Performance Pack on all Mustang models.
Technological advancements are also a highlight of the new Mustang. It features a 13-inch colored center display with SYNC 4, enhanced voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and wireless mobile charging. A 12-inch digital cluster provides real-time information for the driver.
For safety, the Mustang comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, which includes Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross Traffic Alert, Auto High Beam Headlights, Post Impact Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Evasive Steer Assist.
The 7th Gen Mustang is available for online reservation through the Ford Philippines website and will be available in various colors, including Vapor Blue, Iconic Silver, Race Red, Oxford White, Shadow Black, Grabber Blue, and Yellow Splash.
