Saleen Automotive, renowned for its high-performance vehicles, has expanded its esteemed lineup by venturing into the rugged world of off-roading with the introduction of the Saleen Bronco. This limited edition “Big Oly” tribute is a powerhouse engineered to conquer diverse terrains, while simultaneously honoring the storied past of desert racing. Drawing inspiration from the legendary 1971-72 Baja 1000-winning Bronco driven by Parnelli Jones, the Saleen Bronco seamlessly merges innovative design and advanced off-road technology with the distinctive and uncompromising Saleen style. This new addition signifies Saleen’s commitment to delivering adrenaline-pumping performance beyond the conventional pavement, catering to enthusiasts who seek adventure and uncompromising capability from their vehicles.
Powertrain and Performance Details: At the core of the Saleen Bronco’s formidable capabilities lies a Saleen-calibrated 2.7L EcoBoost engine. This robust powerplant delivers an impressive 375 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, ensuring abundant power for challenging off-road expeditions and spirited drives alike. The vehicle’s advanced Saleen Racecraft mid-travel suspension system is a true game-changer, incorporating patented BVS Technology with a unique 5-link design. This sophisticated suspension setup is meticulously engineered to provide high-speed performance and exceptional control across punishing and challenging terrains, absorbing impacts and maintaining stability when conditions demand the most. Complementing this robust suspension are 37-inch BFGoodrich tires, specifically chosen to provide optimal traction and durability, allowing the Saleen Bronco to confidently navigate varied surfaces from loose sand to rocky trails.
Exterior Design and Functionality: The exterior of the Saleen Bronco exemplifies Saleen’s proven “form follows function” design philosophy, where every aesthetic element serves a practical purpose. The vehicle features an all-new front bumper with an integrated skid plate, significantly improving approach angles for obstacle clearance. A redesigned Saleen grille and a dual-vent heat extractor hood are integrated to enhance airflow and optimize drivetrain functionality, ensuring the engine remains cool even under extreme operating conditions. Custom front and rear fenders, complete with integrated vents, along with a redesigned rear bumper, provide enhanced high-clearance angles, crucial for traversing uneven landscapes without impediment. Rounding out the purposeful design are a high downforce rear wing, reminiscent of classic desert racers, KC HiLites for unparalleled visibility during nighttime or low-light adventures, and a rear exit exhaust system that not only boosts performance but also delivers the unmistakable Saleen signature sound.
Interior and Driver Experience: Inside the Saleen Bronco, a truly driver-centric experience awaits, blending rugged durability with refined comfort and bespoke Saleen touches. The cabin is equipped with Saleen’s premium leather seats, accented by elegant Alcantara suede inserts, providing both luxurious feel and supportive comfort during demanding drives. The Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, featuring subtle body-color accents, ensures a tactile and engaging connection between the driver and the vehicle. Steve Saleen highlights that the Bronco is tailored for enthusiasts who have followed the Saleen legacy but now crave escapades beyond paved roads. It embodies the brand’s core values—speed, technical prowess, and uncompromising style, presenting a harmonious fusion of nostalgic inspiration and cutting-edge off-road engineering.
Availability and Legacy: The Saleen Bronco, particularly the “Big Oly” edition, is poised to become a highly coveted collector’s piece among both Saleen enthusiasts and dedicated off-road aficionados. As a limited-production run, its exclusivity enhances its desirability. The vehicle is currently available for order through authorized Saleen dealers nationwide, as well as directly from Saleen Automotive. This strategic availability ensures that dedicated buyers have convenient access to acquire this unique blend of Saleen’s performance heritage and next-generation off-road capability. The Big Oly edition is not merely a vehicle; it represents a tangible connection to a legendary era of motorsports while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of modern off-road engineering.
Summary:
- The Saleen Bronco is a limited-edition off-road vehicle inspired by Parnelli Jones’s “Big Oly” Baja 1000-winning Bronco.
- Powered by a Saleen-calibrated 2.7L EcoBoost engine, producing 375 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque.
- Features advanced Saleen Racecraft mid-travel suspension with patented BVS Technology and a 5-link design.
- Equipped with 37-inch BFGoodrich tires for superior off-road traction.
- Exterior design includes high-clearance bumpers, a heat extractor hood, custom fenders, and a high downforce rear wing.
- Interior boasts premium leather seats with Alcantara, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and body-color accents.
- Available in the iconic Olympia Beer livery and Saleen Colorlab colors.
- Available for order through Saleen dealers and directly, marketed as a coveted collector’s piece.
Disclaimer: Performance specifications and vehicle features are subject to change and may vary based on market and individual configurations.
Source: Saleen
AI Assistance: Gemini
