2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport get down in the dirt

You can't learn everything from riding shotgun, but you can pick up a fair bit.

With the 2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport still a ways away from dealerships, Ford brought me out to Holly Oaks ORV Park in Holly, Michigan, to take a ride (but not a drive) in these hotly anticipated SUVs.

Without giving away the whole kit and caboodle in the first five sentences, I can tell you with assurance that Ford isn't blowing smoke when it says these two Broncos can really hit the dirt.

After some time in the passenger seat, it's obvious that both of these vehicles have been designed to live up to the capability that the Bronco nameplate has possessed during its history.

 And in addition to being able to party when the roads turn to terra firma, it's clear that great care was taken to ensure the occupants get a slightly more mature and refined experience no matter what is under the tires.

Of course, there are still metric tons of questions left unanswered. 

When it comes to how it feels to actually drive these cars and live with all the tech that's baked in there, we'll have to wait just a bit longer.

But for those waiting for any good Bronco news with bated breath, you'll be happy to know Ford is definitely on the right path.

Look for the Bronco to start hitting dealers later this year.

Keep scrolling or clicking to check out even more pictures of the 2021 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport.