2020 Debuts: Ford’s Exciting New Vehicle Lineup

Did you know it takes an estimated three years and roughly $1 billion to launch just one new vehicle model? And all those rides aren’t guaranteed to dazzle with mass-market appeal, either. “Many are bold bids for incremental business, niche cars that might not have received a green light in a shakier economy,” like high-dollar sports cars, limited-run special editions, and forward-thinking EVs, explains Bloomberg.

In a rebounding economy, this has, in turn, put automakers in a challenging situation. Particularly Ford, who abandoned sedans in 2018 when the writing on the wall screamed: JUST KEEP BUILDING MARKET-FRIENDLY TRUCKS, SUVS, AND CROSSOVERS!

The fully-redesigned Explorer, greatly-improved Escape, and resurrected Ranger were just the start. Ford is looking to the future—both near and distant—with a new vehicle lineup that prioritizes capability, style, and next-gen technology. And, 2020 was the moment to begin sharing that vision in earnest.

An electric Mustang crossover! A new generation of hybrid F-150s! THE BRONCO.

But then the entire world, quite literally, caught a cold. And not just any cold—a nasty, contagious, bringing-the-global-economy-to-a standstill, respiratory virus. As citizens sheltered in place under strict stay-at-home orders, an industry built on the freedom to move certainly felt the burn.

Sales stalled. Yearly predictions fell apart. And those shiny new vehicle debuts we were so excited about? Delayed.

Thankfully, as the world gets back to work, so does Ford’s new vehicle lineup. Below is a round-up of the automaker’s hottest new recruits for the 2021 model year. We also included some preliminary information on a few other intriguing projects the Blue Oval has in the works.

Next-Gen F-150

Entering its 14th generation, the perennial chart-topping F-150 revealed its new looks on June 25, delayed from late April. The postponed reveal means a revised production schedule, so Ford fans can expect the automaker to begin building its new F-150 in mid-October, with sales starting later this year.

Overall, the exterior redesign isn’t too radical. A slight nose job, new headlights, and a whopping 11 grille options give the F-150 a fresh facia, while different taillights and a wrap-around bumper update the back end. Interestingly, the body panels are all-new, despite sticking with Ford’s “durable, proven foundation” of a fully boxed high-strength steel frame wrapped in military-grade aluminum. These small changes work together to reduce drag and improve fuel consumption, making the 2021 Ford F-150 the most aerodynamic yet, according to the automaker.

The ‘big’ changes were saved for inside and under the hood.

Now that RAM has set the bar for modern truck cabins, automakers are scrambling to step up their own interiors, and Ford is no exception. Premium materials and new color choices lend some elegance to this legendary work truck, while more storage options and soil-resistant seats keep it functional.

Most noticeable is the snazzy new tech loaded into the dash. An available, all-new 12-inch infotainment center allows users to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously, while the available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster features truck-specific graphics and animations.

Other unique interior additions include a stowaway shifter, Max Recline Seats that fold flat to nearly 180 degrees, and a new optional Interior Work Surface (pictured), which creates a makeshift desk or table between the front seats.

Heading Hybrid

Under the hood, customers can choose from a bevy of carryover engines, which include a 5.0-liter V8, 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, 2.7 or 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6s, and the base, naturally aspirated 3.3-liter V6—or they can opt for the new PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

Available on every trim level from F-150 XL to Limited, the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 engine is the first gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain to enter the half-ton-truck market. The automaker boasts an EPA-estimated range of approximately 700 miles on a full tank of gas and up to 12,000 pounds of max towing in PowerBoost-equipped F-150s.

“PowerBoost combines Ford’s proven EcoBoost engine and 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with a 35-kilowatt (47-horsepower) electric motor integrated into the transmission, as well as software calibrated specially for truck use, including drive modes like tow/haul mode to help customers better manage towing heavy trailers,” says Ford. Plus, the electric motor uses regenerative braking to help recharge a 1.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery, which is packaged underneath the truck.

“Power isn’t only important under the hood,” adds Ford. The new Pro Power Onboard generator allows users to use their truck as a power source for electrical appliances, camping equipment, you name it. In fact, in the PowerBoost configuration, you can wield up to 7.2 kilowatts of output.

Other upgrades on the 2021 Ford F-150 include available hands-free driving, standard over-the-air updates, and all-new SYNC 4 infotainment software, as well as new truck-focused features like Zone Lighting, Trailer Theft Alert, and Trailer Light Check.

New F-150 Raptor

Again, RAM seems to be applying the pressure to its Detroit neighbors, this time in the form of its confirmed Hellcat-powered Rebel TRX. If Ford wants the Raptor to stay competitive, it’ll need to beef up its off-road dominance.

Ford has confirmed there will be a 2021 Raptor, but that’s about all the automaker has said. Rumors imply it should arrive shortly after the 2021 F-150 goes on sale, though we anticipate a release date further into next year. More interestingly, spy shots indicate a new coil-spring rear suspension setup, promising better articulation and improved ground clearance.

However, the real exciting bit is the rumored powertrain: the 700+ hp supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 from the Mustang Shelby GT500. There’s also a possibility that the new hybrid powertrain could be an option as well. “Such a power-plant would offer increased power, driving range, and will cost a premium. It makes sense to offer it in a top-of-a-line truck like the Raptor,” notes Andre Smirnov over at The Fast Lane.

All-New Bronco

Perhaps the most anticipated vehicle debut of 2020, the Ford Bronco saw its grand reveal delayed a few times. The sheet finally came off this long-awaited resurrected classic on July 13 in a very contemporary promo-video-media-spree across multiple channels. Considering limited-run first edition Broncos sold out ASAP, we’d say it was a success.

Reservations are now open for the remaining six editions, which range from a base model “essential” Bronco, starting just under $30k all the way up to a high-speed off-roader dubbed “Wildtrak” starting just over $50k. Ford’s goal was to design each Bronco series around different types of adventure, encouraging buyers to choose the series that best fits their lifestyle. Then, further customization can be done via the automaker’s more than 200 factory-backed accessories—and what is sure to be an astounding effort on the part of aftermarket suppliers.

Available in two- and four-door body styles, the 2021 Ford Bronco is built atop a fully boxed frame similar to the Ranger. Much like the Wrangler it aims to fight, both the roof and doors are easily removable. However, unlike its rival, the Bronco’s doors are frameless, meaning they store right in the cargo area and can travel the trail with you. While the windshield doesn’t fold down à la Jeep, Ford has added easy-to-remove fender flares to the list of new features. Owners can simply unbolt them to access the underbody or gain more suspension clearance.

Let’s Talk Power

Only EcoBoost is on the power menu, but Bronco fans shouldn’t be disappointed. Base power comes from the same 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder found in the Ranger, which pushes out 270 hp and 310 lb-ft and stands on par with the Wrangler’s optional 2.0-liter turbo. Those looking for more oomph can opt for the 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6 offering an impressive 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.

For now, there will be no diesel Bronco but rumors of a hybrid option have been swirling since August. TFL Car speculates a hybrid Bronco would pack an electrically assisted, twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 similar to that found in the the Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. In the Bronco, they estimate it would produce about 450 hp. With both Jeep and Land Rover releasing hybrid variants of their Wrangler and Defender models, respectively, we’d say a hybrid Bronco arriving sooner than later is a safe bet.

While a 10-speed automatic transmission is standard, a Getrag seven-speed manual is available for those keeping the base engine. But, as CNET points out, this ain’t any old manual. “This transmission is essentially a traditional six-speed unit with a dedicated crawler gear,” available with an incredibly low 95:1 crawl ratio “for peak climbing prowess.”

Other exciting features of the 2021 Ford Bronco include:

• Standard front and rear Dana differentials, with optional electronic lockers
• Standard four-wheel or available all-wheel-drive system
• Available 12.0-inch touchscreen
• Available rubberized flooring and marine-grade vinyl upholstery
• Optional 35-inch mud-terrain tires in Bronco’s excellently-named Sasquatch package
• Maximum ground clearance of 11.6 inches
• Available best-in-class water fording at 33.5 inches
• Available best-in-class departure angle of 37.2 degrees and breakover angle of 29 degrees

The good things in life are worth waiting for though, right? While deliveries are targeted for June 2021, Ford cautions that the high number of reservations for the 2021 Bronco may delay some deliveries until 2022.

A Family Affair

For those whose adventures don’t go quite so off-road, Ford offers the all-new Bronco Sport. This unibody crossover is a bit like a beefed-up Ford Escape, offering more capability and traditional SUV-styling. Available in four models, the Bronco Sport offers a standard 1.5-liter turbo I3, putting out 181 hp and 190 lb.-ft. of torque. While that’s not exactly heart-pounding, the optional 2.0-liter turbo I4 pushing 245 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque should at least quicken the pulse. Both engines come mated to an 8-speed auto but C/D reports the upgraded powerplant offers steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and upgraded cooling components.

All Bronco Sport models come standard with all-wheel drive, as well as 17-inch wheels and LED headlights.

Other noteworthy features of the 2021 Bronco Sport include:

• Standard safari-style roof
• Up to 8.8 inches of ground clearance
• TrailControl^TM off-road cruise control
• Maximum 23.6 inches of water fording capability
• Available rubberized flooring and marine-grade vinyl upholstery
• 180-degree split view camera
• Available wireless charging pad
• Enough cargo volume to fit two mountain bikes
• Rear gate featuring a glass hatch and a built-in bottle opener

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is expected to hit dealerships earlier than its big brother, likely late 2020.

Mustang Mach-E

The most unusual offering in Ford’s new vehicle lineup is also its most forward-thinking. Advertised as the new shape of freedom, Ford’s first all-electric crossover promises 0-60 thrills with zero emissions. It was inspired by the Mach-1 variant of the automaker’s beloved pony car, but shares nothing beyond the name. Blending Ford’s rich history with some seriously impressive future styling and technology, the Mustang Mach-E is a good representation of what the Blue Oval intends to do with that $11 billion investment in EVs.

The sleek new model will launch with two battery sizes and three power outputs in either rear- or all-wheel drive. The entry-level RWD Mach-E comes standard with a 68 kWh battery producing 266 hp, with an EPA range of 210 miles. An optional 88 kWh extended battery is available. It produces 290 hp and offers an estimated 300 miles of range. Every model has fast-charging capability and comes with a Ford mobile charger at purchase. If you can’t get to one of Ford’s public charging spots—now the largest network in North America—simply hook the mobile charger up to a 120-volt outlet overnight for an extra 30 miles of range, or a 240-volt outlet for up to 80 percent of battery power.

Luxury and Tech Collide

As expected, the lack of a traditional engine means owners benefit from some extra cargo space up front, 4.7 cu. ft. to be exact. Perhaps unexpectedly though, Ford notes the Mach-E’s front trunk is washable, and it features a drain, making it ideal for muddy outdoor gear… or maybe some cold beers on ice.

Spacious continues inside, with 29 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, and up to 60 with the back seats folded. The 2021 Mustang Mach-E interior also boasts a wide, streamlined dashboard wearing a massive 15.5 in vertically-mounted touchscreen. A 10.2 in digital cluster for the driver is also on-board, as well as customizable ambient interior lighting, B&O Sound System, panoramic roof, heated seats and steering wheel, wireless charging, and funky little buttons that pop open the doors.

Ford is currently taking orders for the 2021 Mustang Mach-E, with deliveries expected to begin in December.