Despite its unfortunate timing of launch and subsequent initial problems, Ford’s comeback of the Bronco 4×4 has been a remarkable triumph, drawing in both off-road fans and casual 4×4 customers seeking an alternative to the market’s primary mainstream rival, the Jeep Wrangler.
Similar to the Jeep, the Bronco is among the few mass-produced cars still offered with a manual transmission, and the well-received transmission has gained popularity since the SUV began selling in 2021—so much so that it’s easy to overlook that the most sought-after of the car’s introductory configurations was restricted to an automatic transmission. Ford’s decision to limit the Sasquatch package to the automatic felt particularly outrageous because Ford had made a significant fuss about permitting customers to opt for the off-road features even on the most basic Bronco. Requiring customers to also choose the automatic seemed contradictory to that principle.
That limitation was temporary. Enthusiasts voiced their concerns emphatically, and Ford took notice. By 2022, customers could select the ‘Squatch with the six-speed manual. And if the company could rewind time, that choice would have been available at launch, Bronco development engineer Seth Goslawski shared with The Drive in an exclusive discussion.
“Um, yes, launching with the Sasquatch package was evidently a game changer for this segment, and even for the off-road industry, right?” Goslawski remarked. “It kind of established a new standard, I would say.”
“If you recall our launch in ’21, the Sasquatch package was available on everything except the manual,” Goslawski noted. “And I’d say there was almost a roar from all the enthusiasts. We responded—pretty much within the year.”
Indeed, and not merely by providing the combination on a specialized, pricey model. Ford made adjustments to allow customers to order the base Bronco with the ‘squatch and six-speed; the same was true for the Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Badlands models. Ford has since rearranged the packages in a 2025 consolidation that will be regarded as the closest thing the new Bronco has received to a mid-cycle refresh.
“Okay, we understand you, we ought to have launched with the [Sasquatch] manual,” Goslawski reflected.
With the current offerings, the Bronco genuinely exemplifies the customizable approach Ford promised at its debut.
“If you want to get an entry-level Bronco and then choose that Sasquatch option, [you can],” Goslawski explained. “Because, as you know, it’s quite challenging to perform final drive swaps and have, you know, the drivetrain upgraded, all that kind of stuff. Therefore, it’s basically the simple factory integration that you can achieve with that.”
However, as Goslawski observes, the possibilities remain limitless. Ever since the Sasquatch incident, Ford is more capable of adapting to evolving customer preferences.
“If you’re looking to do something extraordinary, you can opt for a base Bronco, select that, and you know, assemble it the way you want to,” he stated. “Offering that range of option packages [to customers] is beneficial. And we will persist in adjusting as the market necessitates or as customers express their desires for different packages; we are always going to attempt to heed that and see how we can respond.”
Automakers sometimes face backlash from enthusiasts who demand options that they ultimately don’t purchase. Some can’t rationalize the inclusion of a manual despite robust customer feedback. Yet when I inquired with Goslawski, he affirmed that Ford has not regretted its reversal for even a moment.
“Not in the slightest,” he said. If anything, he wishes they had done it that way from the start.
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### Ford’s Only Regret Regarding the Manual Bronco Sasquatch: Availability Delays
The Ford Bronco has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years, winning over off-road fans and casual drivers. Among its different configurations, the Bronco Sasquatch package is notable for its robust capabilities and off-road performance. However, a striking point that has garnered attention is Ford’s regret regarding the slow launch of the manual transmission option for the Bronco Sasquatch.
#### The Bronco Sasquatch Package
The Sasquatch package is tailored for hardcore off-road performance, featuring larger tires, enhanced suspension, and improved ground clearance. This package particularly attracts those looking for adventure and the excitement of navigating tough terrains. The blend of the Bronco’s nostalgic design and cutting-edge off-road technology has made it a favored choice among outdoor fans.
#### Manual Transmission Aficionados
For many driving enthusiasts, a manual transmission provides a more immersive and connected driving experience. The capability to shift gears manually grants greater control over the vehicle, especially in off-road scenarios where precision matters. Ford acknowledged this interest and offered a manual transmission option for the Bronco, but the timing of its rollout has sparked controversy.
#### Delayed Launch
Initially, the manual transmission was anticipated to debut with the launch, but various production challenges and supply chain problems caused delays. Consequently, many customers eager to experience the Bronco Sasquatch with a manual had to wait longer than they would have liked. This delay has frustrated both Ford and its customers, as the manual option is a crucial selling point for the vehicle.
#### Effects on Sales and Customer Happiness
The postponement of the manual transmission’s release has affected sales and customer satisfaction. Numerous potential buyers specifically interested in the manual option either chose to wait or considered alternative vehicles. This change in consumer behavior emphasizes the significance of fulfilling customer expectations, particularly for a model marketed as an off-road icon.
#### Ford’s Reaction
In light of the input from fans and prospective buyers, Ford has acknowledged the dissatisfaction regarding the delayed launch of the manual transmission for the Bronco Sasquatch. The company has vowed to speed up the production process and ensure that the manual option is available as quickly as possible. Ford’s responsiveness to its customer base showcases its commitment to sustaining the Bronco’s reputation as a driver-oriented vehicle.
#### Future Prospects
As Ford continues to tackle the challenges of production and supply chain logistics, the excitement for the manual Bronco Sasquatch remains high. Enthusiasts are keen to experience the synergy of the Bronco’s rugged capabilities and the thrilling driving experience offered by a manual transmission. Ford’s regret about the delay serves as a reminder of the importance of timely product launches in meeting customer desires.
In summary, while the Ford Bronco Sasquatch has attracted considerable attention for its off-road features, the slow introduction of the manual transmission option emerges as a notable regret for the company. As Ford endeavors to resolve these challenges, the hope is that the manual Bronco Sasquatch will soon be available to fulfill the wishes of driving enthusiasts and solidify the Bronco’s standing in the off-road vehicle market.