There have been numerous reports regarding the upcoming reborn Ford Bronco and how it'll be the most formidable competitor the Jeep Wrangler has experienced in years. The new Bronco, for example, will supposedly offer a removable roof and doors and, to better compete with Jeep's access to the Mopar parts catalog, Ford has reportedly teamed up with parts supplier Yakima for a host of add-on accessories. Remember, the new Bronco will ride on the same body-on-frame chassis as the midsize Ranger pickup truck.

Also likely to share the Ranger's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic, we haven't heard whether additional transmissions will be offered. The Fast Lane Car, which received its info from a Ford dealership, suggests that the Bronco will be made available with either a manual or automatic transmission. In addition, the SUV will feature 33-inch off-road tires with 17-inch wheels.

A Ford dealership was the one who spilled the beans, though Ford itself refuses to comment on future product. Until Ford officially confirms, the manual gearbox and big tires and wheel remains a rumor. But it's not completely farfetched given the Bronco's retro-inspired design and off-road legacy. Ford simply wants to give the hot-selling Jeep Wrangler trouble, so it needs to offer customers features that will lure them away. A manual option and big wheels are a great start. Remember, the Wrangler offers a six-speed manual and the 2019 Wrangler Rubicon comes standard with 33-inch off-road, all-terrain tires.

Heck, its fender flares are high-clearance and can also accommodate up to 35-inch tires. It makes complete sense for Ford to compete directly with Jeep in this regard. After all, if you're going to build a proper SUV it must have the off-road chops to compete head-on against the segment leader. When will the 2021 Ford Bronco officially debut? Unknown at this time, but we do expect the so-called "Baby Bronco," an Escape-based crossover with SUV-like styling, to arrive first sometime next year.