I think it’s more likely that it was a potential liability issue hitting the button accidentally.

Yet another example of Stellantis big shots doing what they do best with the company's products: overprice and underdeliver.   Among many, many problems facing Stellantis is one simple, unfortunate truth: Too many of the automaker's cars simply cost too much. Read More: https://www.jalopnik.com/jeep-and-stellantis-cars-cost-way-too-much-1851705289/

One of the guest writers at Motor Trend, Justin Banner, agrees:   It’s hard not to draw parallels to the old CR-Z hybrid coupe. That car was fun, efficient, and forward-thinking, but it answered a question basically no one asked. As we wrote when it bowed out: “The CR-Z never really had a direct competitor, and it filled a niche no one even knew existed.” The Prelude risks the same fate, as a sharp, capable hybrid coupe that enthusiasts admire but few actually buy, especially without a manual option. History is littered with great cars whose price and positioning missed the mark.    

The conventional wisdom used to be, "Don't buy the first year of a model, wait until they work out the kinks." but with Ford, the first year has the most standard equipment of the series, after which the bling starts to disappear. Recalls are done in multi-year batches anyway.

How much "Off Road use only" is the Recon actually going to see? But then again how much this really enforced too? I've seen photos of cars that have zero reason to have the doors removed, removed LOL 

I actually LOVE that!  I thought it would be useless as I learned to drive backing boat trailers down the ramp when I was 14.  It makes backing my fifth wheel into the shed so much easier!  It's easy to use one handed, it centers the wheel when you let off, no spinning the wheel back and forth, and it's really a treat to use.  One of the best technological things Ford has added to their trucks IMHO.

I would've gladly gave up Pro Tailer Backup Assist instead 🙄

Maverick is too small to need the drop down, but I like how they mimicked it in the sheetmetal.  

Yet another recall-software related though   2025-2026 Ford Bronco Family SUVs Recalled Over Instrument Panel Failures

He was suggesting this is the next-gen model that they might add it to.     I don't see it being added to a refresh, as they wouldn't want to spend for a whole new door setup, but I could possibly see it for a redesign.