Ford confirms Bronco's return

UPDATED: A public spat between Republican presidential hopeful, Donald Trump, and Ford has seen the US car-maker workers' union accidentally confirm the return of the classic Bronco nameplate.

The argument started during the recent presidential debates when Trump criticised Ford for moving production of its Focus hatch from Michigan in the US to across the border in Mexico.

Responding to the attack that Ford is cashing in on cheap labour at the expense of US jobs, Ford's CEO, Mark Fields, said his firm was responsible for "massive investment and job growth" in the US.

Chiming into support Fields, United Automobile Workers union boss Bill Johnson, told the Detroit Free Press: "We hate to see the products go to Mexico, but with the Ranger and the Bronco coming to Michigan Assembly that absolutely secures the future for our people a lot more than the Focus does".

Johnson confirming the return of the Bronco in the interview has not been denied by Ford.

Locally produced in Australia from 1981 to 1987, the cult Ford SUV first went on sale back in 1966.

Available in half-cab, roadster or wagon, the Bronco became an icon for its toughness and dependability in the US and stayed on sale for five-generations until it was eventually replaced in 1996 by the Expedition. In that period the smaller Bronco II was also launched.

In what form the Bronco will re-appear in the USA (and perhaps other markets) is unclear. One suggestion is that it'sexpected to be made in short-wheelbase, long-wheelbase and extra-long wheel base for an eight-seat version.

The other (more probable) alternative is a Ranger (T6) based medium-sized SUV more akin to Bronco II.
-- with staff