Ford is shaking up its Bronco lineup for the 2026 model year by bringing back a legendary nameplate, though not in the way enthusiasts might expect. Rather than returning as a standalone trim level, the Wildtrak has been reimagined as an all-encompassing high-performance package designed for the four-door Bronco Badlands.
The New Wildtrak Package: A Premium Off-Road Bundle
The 2026 Wildtrak package is a significant investment, priced at $11,945. Instead of offering a single configuration, Ford has bundled several high-end features into one comprehensive upgrade. This move suggests a shift in how Ford manages its mid-to-high tier models, grouping expensive specialized equipment together to streamline production and target customers who want a “ready-to-go” off-road machine.
The package includes two major components:
1. The Black Appearance Package
This aesthetic upgrade (usually a $600 standalone option) provides a more aggressive look through:
– A black grille featuring white “Bronco” lettering.
– Blacked-out mirrors and door handles.
– A Shadow Black hardtop.
2. The Sasquatch Off-Road Package
The core of the Wildtrak’s capability comes from the $6,345 Sasquatch package. This isn’t just about looks; it is a heavy-duty mechanical overhaul that includes:
– Advanced Suspension: HOSS 3.0 suspension featuring FOX internal bypass dampers and a front stabilizer disconnect.
– Enhanced Traction: Electronic locking differentials and a more sophisticated four-wheel-drive system.
– Aggressive Stance: High-clearance fender flares, 17-inch black wheels, and massive 35-inch tires.
Performance and Power
To complement the rugged hardware, the Wildtrak package mandates the upgrade to the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This powertrain delivers:
– 330 hp (246 kW)
– 415 lb-ft (562 Nm) of torque
– A ten-speed automatic transmission
By bundling the engine with the off-road hardware, Ford ensures that the Wildtrak maintains the high power-to-weight ratio necessary to manage larger tires and heavy-duty suspension components in technical terrain.
Aesthetic Refinements and Color Options
Beyond the major mechanical updates, Ford is introducing several cosmetic tweaks for the 2026 model year:
- New Paint: The “Orange Fury Metallic Tri-coat,” a color previously seen on the Mustang, is now available.
- Expanded Roof Palette: Customers ordering the Bronco Raptor or Outer Banks can choose from several roof colors, including Avalanche Gray, Marsh Gray, Ruby Red, Velocity Blue, Desert Sand, and Orange Fury.
- Curated Combinations: In an effort to maintain a cohesive brand aesthetic, Ford has restricted certain “clashing” color combinations (such as a Velocity Blue body paired with an Orange Fury roof) to ensure a polished look straight from the factory.
Summary
Ford is repositioning the Wildtrak name as a premium “super-package” for the Badlands trim, combining high-end aesthetics with heavy-duty Sasquatch hardware and EcoBoost power. This strategy allows Ford to offer a highly capable, turnkey off-road vehicle while simplifying the customization process for the consumer.
