The stick shift was supposed to be dead by now. Automakers have spent years replacing manual gearboxes with faster, more efficient automatics across every segment — from economy cars to sports cars. And yet, one rugged body-on-frame off-road SUV not only keeps the manual alive but takes it a step further, offering something no other vehicle on sale today can match: a seven-speed manual transmission.
Most manual transmissions available today use six-speed gearboxes and are found in performance vehicles. The last seven-speed manual transmission on the market features an ultra-low crawler gear as its seventh gear, designed to provide maximum torque and control during low-speed off-road driving.
Ford brought the Bronco back in 2021, reviving the iconic off-roader after a 25-year hiatus to directly challenge the Jeep Wrangler, one of the few vehicles still offering a manual transmission (along with removable doors and roof). The Wrangler’s six-speed manual pairs with the 285-hp 3.6-liter V6, though its long-term future remains uncertain — Jeep has come close to discontinuing it before.
The Bronco’s seven-speed manual adds even more appeal for driving purists, though it is paired exclusively with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which produces 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful turbocharged V6 is automatic-only, as is the high-performance Bronco Raptor with its 418-hp twin-turbo V6 and 37-inch tires. Buyers can spec the seven-speed manual on the Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Badlands, and Heritage Edition trims. The manual is also compatible with the Sasquatch Package — which adds 35-inch tires, Bilstein shocks, and upgraded off-road hardware — making it one of the most capable SUVs on the market.
The seven-speed manual is sourced from Getrag and features six traditional forward gears plus an additional crawler gear, marked with a “C” on the shift knob. This ultra-low ratio gear lets the Bronco crawl over rocks, steep inclines, and rugged terrain with precise control and optimal traction. It’s Ford’s only manual transmission outside of a Mustang. Combined with the advanced four-wheel-drive system and electronic locking differential, the manual Bronco achieves a 94.8:1 crawl ratio. Add the optional Sasquatch Package, and you have a seriously capable four-wheel-drive SUV that’s more engaging to drive than almost anything else in its class.
Besides the Bronco Raptor, Broncos equipped with the optional Sasquatch Package are the most capable versions of the SUV. Initially, the Sasquatch Package was only available with the automatic transmission, but Ford later added the seven-speed manual as an option. The package is now available on every trim, including the base model, and bundles a wealth of off-road equipment that would otherwise require expensive aftermarket upgrades.
|
Approach Angle |
43.2 degrees |
|---|---|
|
Breakover Angle |
29.0 degrees |
|
Departure Angle |
37.2 degrees |
|
Ground Clearance |
11.6 inches |
|
Max Water Fording |
33.5 inches |
Pricing for the Ford Bronco starts at $39,890 for a two-door Base model, and the seven-speed manual transmission is a standard option, making the Bronco one of the few new vehicles still offering a stick shift. Choosing the 10-speed automatic costs an additional $1,495. Higher trims, such as the Heritage and Badlands, come with more off-road features and technology, and fully loaded versions equipped with the Sasquatch Package and other upgrades can approach nearly $80,000, positioning the Bronco as not just a rugged off-roader but also a premium adventure vehicle. Whatever version you’re looking for, the Bronco provides a wide range of configurations to meet diverse needs.
The Bronco’s Base trim is the entry-level option, delivering essential off-road capability at an accessible price. It comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, paired with the seven-speed manual transmission. The Base model includes four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, 16-inch steel wheels, and all-terrain tires. An 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, manual cloth seats, and a choice of removable hardtop or soft top round out the package.
The Big Bend trim builds on the Base with added comfort and convenience. It steps up to 17-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires and upgrades the interior with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control. Technology highlights include keyless entry, remote start, and a larger 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Like all Broncos, the Big Bend comes with standard four-wheel drive and the option to add the Sasquatch Package for enhanced off-road performance.
For more serious off-road use, the Bronco Badlands adds Bilstein position-sensitive monotube shocks, front and rear locking differentials, and a disconnecting front sway bar to maximize articulation on rough terrain. It rides on 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch alloy wheels and adds rock rails and steel front and rear bumpers. Inside, marine-grade vinyl seats and washout flooring make cleanup easy after a day on the trail. The Badlands also includes the G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) terrain management system with seven selectable driving modes.
Inspired by the original 1966 Bronco, the Heritage Edition features a white grille with red “FORD” lettering, an Oxford White roof, and vintage-inspired graphics. Based on the Badlands trim, it is powered by the 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine and is available with either the seven-speed manual transmission or the optional automatic.
The Jeep Wrangler is the only other SUV currently available with a manual transmission. Its six-speed manual gearbox pairs with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, delivering 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This transmission is offered across a wide range of trims, including the Sport, Sport S, Willys, and Rubicon. On Rubicon models, the manual works with a 4:1 low-range transfer case, providing crawl ratios up to 84:1 — ideal for navigating steep, technical terrain. While the automatic transmission adds roughly $2,500 to the Wrangler’s price, the manual remains a budget-friendly choice for buyers who want a more engaging driving experience.
Sources: Ford, Jeep.
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