Ford is set to honor its off-road legacy with the 2025 Bronco Stroppe Special Edition, a modern interpretation of the original Baja Bronco that dominated the desert racing scene in the ’60s and ’70s. This limited-edition model draws inspiration from the Stroppe Baja Bronco, which is celebrated for its rugged performance and racing pedigree, especially at the iconic Baja 1000 race.
Jason Hyde, the Bronco Brand Manager, emphasizes the connection to the past: “When you purchased a Stroppe Baja Bronco in 1971, it rolled out of Bill Stroppe’s factory ready to tackle the Baja 1000. That capability was at the core of our development process for the new Bronco Stroppe Special Edition.” The new model incorporates modern technology while paying homage to the spirit of its predecessor.
Performance and Features –
The 2025 Bronco Stroppe Special Edition is exclusively available as a two-door model, taking the place of the Wildtrak in the Bronco lineup. It boasts a standard EcoBoost 2.7-liter V6 engine, Fox Internal Bypass Dampers, and the innovative Baja G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) Mode, ensuring superior performance on challenging terrains. The vehicle also includes a Stabilizer Bar Disconnect and the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension 3.0 (HOSS 3.0), which contributes to its off-road capabilities.
Hyde adds, “With features like 35-inch Goodyear Territory RT tires, we designed this Bronco to deliver off-road performance worthy of the Stroppe name.”
A Nod to Classic Styling –
The Bronco Stroppe Special Edition features a striking design that echoes the original Baja Bronco’s aesthetic. It showcases a modern take on the classic Calypso Coral, Wimbledon White, and Astra Blue color scheme. The new heritage colors include Oxford White and Code Orange, with the latter making its debut outside the Raptor family. An Atlas Blue painted hardtop adds to its distinct look.
Additional design elements include:
- A functional matte black hood to reduce glare during high-speed desert runs
- A Frozen White grille with a Code Orange “Bronco” wordmark
- Unique removable side steps with integrated rock rails
- Squared-off high-clearance fenders in Code Orange
- 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels with a matte-black beadlock ring
Inside, the Bronco Stroppe Special Edition features a white instrument mid-panel with Code Orange accents throughout the cabin, including the “Bronco” wordmark on the dash and contrasting stitching on the seats.
Celebrating Off-Road Legacy –
The legacy of Bill Stroppe, hailed as a “legendary builder of winning off-road vehicles” by the Off-Road Motorsport Hall of Fame, continues to influence Ford’s designs today. His work in the late ’60s led to significant victories for the Bronco, including the first outright win by a stock 4×4 at Baja in 1969.
“Bill Stroppe not only established Bronco’s competition legacy at events like the Baja 1000 and NORRA Mexican 1000, but Stroppe Baja Broncos put his off-road knowhow on the road,” said Ford Archivist Ted Ryan. The new Bronco Stroppe Special Edition builds upon this rich history, incorporating advanced features such as G.O.A.T. Modes that enhance its off-road capabilities.
The 2025 Ford Bronco Stroppe Special Edition represents a blend of heritage and modern technology, making it a compelling choice for off-road enthusiasts and fans of the Bronco brand alike. It is a fitting tribute to the Baja Bronco legacy while ensuring that today’s drivers experience high-performance off-roading like never before.
