Recent sightings of the camouflage-wrapped 2021 Ford Bronco have had fans waiting with Christmas morning anticipation and the hope that enough hints were dropped to get just the gift they want. There’s plenty to look forward to since the last Broncos rolled off the assembly line in 1996.

If the expected three grille designs of the newly launched SUV are any indication of the options, the Ranger-based frame and Sport builds promise to offer plenty of selection.

2021 Ford Bronco body styling

The 2021 Ford Bronco is slated to be a midsize body-on-frame, off-road-focused SUV based on the Ford Ranger, according to MotorTrend. Standard with four-wheel drive, its exterior styling is expected to be reminiscent of its predecessors. Its two- and four-door configurations are expected to offer a removable roof and detachable doors.

The smaller 2021 Bronco Sport will be featured on an off-road type unibody crossover frame that is approximately the same size as the Escape. The difference being that the Sport will offer greater off-road capabilities.

According to Ford Authority, the three grille designs each convey unique detailing intended to appeal to a wide client base. Both the Bronco and the Sport will offer the package options.

The Modern design is the 2021 Ford Bronco default grille bearing a black base with Bronco written across it in illuminated block lettering. The illumination graphic extends into the middle of each headlight.

The Bronco’s classic grille is a throwback to what’s assumed to be the first generation model. Its grid-like pattern was typically featured in white with “Bronco” inscribed in a contrasting color. The 2021 Bronco’s third grille option is titled the Custom and is referred to as a “shiny and upscale look,” which may translate into a chrome base.

The color palette is expected to encompass 10 factory paint choices, ranging from Blue Metallic to Orange Pearl.

Under the 2021 Ford Bronco’s hood

It’s expected that the Ford Bronco will come standard with the Ranger’s EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbo-four engine. It will deliver 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. An option of a 2.7-liter or 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo engine may be offered. The 10-speed automatic transmission will be the only option. It will, however, provide a hybrid alternative.

The Sport model is expected to be powered by a standard turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder engine. An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder may also be available. A hybrid powertrain option will also be offered, utilizing the Escape Hybrid’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four with an electric motor. Equipped with front-wheel-drive, the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport will also be available with an optional all-wheel-drive system.

The new Ford Bronco’s safety features

Safety has become a focal point of new vehicle manufacturing, and the 2021 Ford Bronco is no exception. So, while the doors and roof are removable, there are expected to be checks in place to enhance its safety.

Its deployable telescopic assembly may provide inflatable airbags stored at strategic points in the vehicle with air that flows through the tubes inflating them when necessary. The bags would stretch across doors to provide additional protection.

The Bronco’s rumored aluminum construction is another safety benefit in that it’s lighter than steel, offering better energy absorption and larger crush zones.

Not quite ready for the reveal

With the novel coronavirus pandemic taking center stage, Ford’s much anticipated 2021 Bronco reveal has been postponed. In the interest of its employees’ health, the manufacturer’s plants had been shut down, with the North American plant reopening on May 18, 2020.

It will just make the unwrapping of that much-anticipated package all the more treasured.