With the Ford Bronco FilsonAs if the Ford Bronco couldn't get any more rugged or charming, Filson adds its own brand of masterful outdoor capability.Ford Bronco is known for its off-roading expertise; its G.O.A.T modes—go over any terrain—brought drivers to new heights on the trail. Filson is known for rugged outdoor clothing and accessories, building its name on products structured for those who work or recreate in the harshest outdoor conditions. Both are known to be water-and-dirt resistant and favored by the off-the-beaten-path adventure types.Now, they are one and the same with the debut of the Ford Bronco Filson.AdvertisementAdvertisementThis story is 100% human-researched and written based on actual first-person knowledge, extensive experience and expertise on the subject of cars and trucks. Additionally, I was Ford's guest for this preview but all opinions are my own.Get all our news in your inbox: Subscribe to our newsletter!A Collaboration That Elevates Both Ford and FilsonThe branded Ford Bronco Filson edition features a rear wheelcover with a unified logo – Credit: Natalie MerolaWhen performance meets functional design, from the interior details to the engine itself, the Ford Bronco Filson goes deeper than simply a trim. In the first-ever Bronco Filson, the duality of American craftsmanship from both Ford and Filson shine through.But it goes beyond simply contributing names and design ideas. Filson added durable fabrics and finishes in colors that can go the distance and textures that add resilience. Ford brought its best too, with a powerful engine that allows drivers to take on nature in a stylishly functional off-road SUV.With the Sasquatch off-road package a standard element on the Bronco Filson, as well as the more powerful Raptor engine, the Bronco Filson is by its nature a premium trim that sits at the top of Bronco's lineup.What Drives Her: Have you followed our podcast?Ford's Best Engine and Suspension Were Really the Only ChoiceThe Ford Bronco Filson – Credit: Natalie MerolaHarsh trails need a confident driver, and as a big Bronco Raptor fan myself, I was happy to see that Ford brought this 3.0-liter V6 engine to the Bronco Filson. If it is anything like the "Braptor" as I lovingly call it, the power delivery is seamless and quick.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdding to the premium feel of more driving and less jostling are Fox shocks to soften rocky roads and standard 35-inch rugged-terrain tires to conquer the trail. As an off-roader, it is a big deal to have tires that don't sacrifice grip. The bragging rights that these are the largest standard tires on any premium 4×4 SUV is a bonus.Filson Design Elements are Inspired from Fin, Feather, and ForestEven the steering wheel in the Ford Bronco Filson takes on a more rugged feel – Credit: Natalie MerolaThe color palette that Ford and Filson chose is inspired from the places you'll immerse yourself into nature: fin, feather, and forest. Blending in with the activities and animals that are often the point of the adventure lets us feel even more a part of it all. Exterior colors like Marsh Gray, Avalanche Gray, Desert Sand, Shadow Black, Oxford White and Bronco Filson-exclusive Field Green Metallic—based on the Filson field jacket— are inspired by the terrains and landscapes where adventures happen. Inside, trail-ready color palettes, purposeful materials and functional accessories commemorate the collaboration.More Exclusive Details Add To the Bronco Filson CharmThe Filson upholstered seats in the Ford Bronco Filson – Credit: Natalie MerolaAlso unique to the Bronco Filson is a unique new grille inspired by Filson's textured goods, Bronco lettering, badging and fender flares. There are pillar hand grips to assist with getting in and out and retractable powered running boards are available. For the first time, Ford is offering ventilated front seats.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe most eye-catching color in the First Edition model is the exclusive Iron Sands Copper Metallic exterior paint color. It's accompanied by a distinct and unique fender badge and a custom serialized console badge. If you collect and pass down Filson outfitting or Ford models from generation to generation, you can easily see the design inspiration from the Filson Tin Cloth short-lined cruiser jacket and how the interior materials perform with confidence. The Filson-inspired cargo storage bags are similar to the ones on their jackets and bags; it's a nice touch.The Wildland Fire Rig Inspired the Ford Bronco Filson CollabThe ultimate Ford Bronco Filson might be the Firecrew Edition with a useful roof rack and open rear ideal for carrying gear into the wild – Credit: Natalie MerolaBack in 2020 when Ford first announced the return of the Bronco, they imagined the Wildland Fire Rig. It not only featured heritage graphics and a vintage look, but it demonstrated capability with an open cargo area and a rugged roof rack for working crews in the woodlands.This inspired the design in the first-ever Bronco Filson; it needed a rugged aesthetic and functionality with big, meaty tires, ample ground clearance, terrain management capabilities and durable interior materials to ensure easy cleanup and function.To build a Bronco Filson that would be rugged and durable enough, Ford teamed up with the U.S. Forest Service, search and rescue organizations, and outdoor adventurers to ensure the Ford Bronco Filson lives up to the brand collaboration. The result is a purpose-built Bronco and made to outlast its early owners and become a heritage vehicle that everyone will love as much for the memories as the family trips to favorite fishing spots, camping sites and hiking trails. Off-Road Performance and Long-Lasting Materials Create a Heritage EditionFilson helped Ford to design new cargo mats and soft storage boxes – Credit: Natalie MerolaAlthough I do not have generations of campers in my family, I can see how one trailblazer in a family inspires others to want to spend more time outside. Being able to bring the comforts of home and have masterful driving tech adds to the experience. Making the Ford Bronco Raptor just as resilient over the years as it is on the trail meant focusing on more intentional materials that can make the generation-to-generation legacy transition is part of the goal of this model. AdvertisementAdvertisementThe confidence both brands evoke has already spanned the years and counts generations of fans. With combined utility and capability, both better over time, like wearing your favorite wool or wax-coated jacket. Or like a leather jacket that becomes more classic with time.And that's the opportunity, to own a heritage 4×4 that generations ahead will cherish. For those who dream of that sort of gift for their kids, or who simply want the ultimate Bronco, can sign up now for updates and early access; deliveries are expected in the Fall. There is also a limited-edition Bronco x Filson clothing collection launching June 4 exclusively at Filson stores and web site. Pricing and availability hasn't been announced yet and will be available through the online site in the near future.