Ford Bronco vs Bronco Sport: Side by Side Comparison

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Bronco vs Bronco Sport Review

The main difference between the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport is the Bronco’s superior size, off-road capabilities and power. However, the Bronco Sport offers great value and efficiency in a smaller package. For shoppers in the Vancouver, WA area, Westlie Ford is here to help compare these exciting new Ford SUVs. We also offer a wide selection of new vehicles including the 2023 Ford Bronco and 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. Keep reading or contact us today!

Popular Ford Bronco Trim Levels

The Bronco is available in seven main trim levels, ranging from the no-frills Base to the luxurious Wildtrak and Badlands trims designed for more extreme off-roading. Some popular configurations include:

• Big Bend – Mid-level everyday trim with nice features
• Black Diamond – Off-road oriented with heavy duty bash plates
• Wildtrak – Signature high-end model with performance parts

Learn more about Ford Bronco trim levels.

Popular Ford Bronco Sport Trim Levels

The Bronco Sport comes in five main trim options, here are the top 3 most popular:

• Big Bend – Mid-level with added creature comforts
• Outer Banks – Upscale interior appointments
• Badlands – Off-road geared version

Size and Capability

The most significant difference between the Bronco and Bronco Sport is their size and off-road capabilities. As a true body-on-frame SUV, the Bronco has a larger footprint and sits on the higher end of the midsize SUV segment. With its stronger body-on-frame construction, solid rear axle, and increased ground clearance, the Bronco is purpose-built for rugged off-road use.

In contrast, the Bronco Sport is based on the Escape crossover platform with unibody construction optimized for on-road driving. While incorporating some rugged capability, the Bronco Sport competes in the smaller compact SUV class. It lacks the full off-road credentials of its big brother.

For those seeking serious rock-crawling and overlanding performance, the Bronco is tops in its class. For an everyday compact SUV with light off-road ability, the Bronco Sport fits the bill.

Powertrain and Performance

Aligned with their sizes and capabilities are significant differences in powertrain and performance between the Bronco and Bronco Sport.

The Bronco offers two EcoBoost turbocharged engine choices:

• 2.7L V6 with 310 horsepower, 400 lb-ft torque
• 2.3L 4-cylinder with 270 hp, 310 lb-ft torque

Transmission options consist of a quick-shifting 10-speed automatic or a 7-speed Getrag manual for purist driving enjoyment. The Bronco boasts best-in-class torque and acceleration numbers to conquer off-road terrain. Advanced tech like Trail Turn Assist enables tight turns on trails.

By contrast, the Bronco Sport comes exclusively with these engine choices:

• 2.0L 4-cylinder with 245 hp, 275 lb-ft torque (turbocharged)
• 1.5L 3-cylinder with 181 hp, 190 lb-ft torque (standard engine)

Power gets routed through an 8-speed automatic – no manual option. Performance and capabilities are aligned for an on-road focused compact SUV. For shoppers wanting serious V6 muscle and off-road prowess, the Bronco clearly outpaces the Bronco Sport. But the Bronco Sport offers adequate daily driving power in a smaller package.

Interior Space

Moving inside the cabins reveals more key differences in interior roominess. With its larger exterior footprint, the Bronco unsurprisingly provides more interior space and passenger room.

The Bronco comes standard with seating for five, expandable to six with a second row bench. Headroom and legroom measurements exceed the Bronco Sport by several inches for comfortable seating, even for larger passengers. Total passenger volume bests the Bronco Sport by over 10 cubic feet.

While smaller, the Bronco Sport maintains decent space for its compact segment. It seats five passengers in most configurations. Though overall interior volume trails the Bronco, front and rear headroom are respectable for the class.

So the Bronco wins for maximizing interior room, while the Bronco Sport delivers adequate space despite its smaller stature. Those needing to frequently accommodate larger groups or gear should lean towards the Bronco.

Cargo Capacity

Cargo hauling utility follows a similar pattern when comparing the Bronco and Bronco Sport models. With its larger size, the Bronco unsurprisingly provides greater maximum cargo space.

Behind the second row, the Bronco has up to 35.6 cubic feet of cargo room. With seats folded, that expands to a cavernous 77.7 cubic feet of space to haul gear. The Bronco features an open layout and tie downs to secure equipment.

The Bronco Sport packs up to 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seat. Maximum cargo room reaches 65.2 cubic feet with second row folded down. While less than the Bronco, this respectable capacity beats many other compact SUVs.

So the Bronco again wins for outright utility, while the Bronco Sport delivers good usable space for daily driving and adventures. The Bronco Sport may fit the bill for most cargo needs unless maximum hauling capacity is required.

Off-Road Technology

The Bronco clearly exceeds the Bronco Sport’s brawn and size. But another key advantage comes from its exclusive advanced off-road technologies.

Ford engineers packed the Bronco with over-landing innovations like:

• Trail Toolbox – Off-road navigation system with route planning
• Trail Control – Cruise control for low-speed trail driving
• Trail Turn Assist – Tight off-road turning capabilities
• 360 camera system – For spotting obstacles on the trail

This cutting-edge tech allows the Bronco to confidently tackle rugged terrain and obstacles. While the Bronco Sport incorporates good all-terrain hardware like a 4WD system, it lacks the high-end off-road bells and whistles.

For those wanting the ultimate technology-enhanced overlanding experience, the Bronco delivers. But the Bronco Sport still impresses with its hardware for light trail use.

In summary, for shoppers wanting maximum size, capabilities, and off-road performance, the Bronco comes out ahead. Drivers prioritizing maneuverability and efficiency in a smaller package find a great option in the Bronco Sport. For more information on Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport specs, configurations, colors, images, and more, view our model research pages for the 2023 Ford Bronco and 2023 Ford Bronco Sport. If you have any other questions, contact us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ford Broncos reliable?

While the new generation Bronco doesn’t have a long reliability history yet, we expect it to be quite dependable based on Ford’s experience and rigorous testing. The Bronco comes with a 5-year/100,000 mile transferrable powertrain warranty for added peace of mind.

How much to lease a Ford Bronco?

Exact Bronco lease payments can vary greatly based on your chosen trim, down payment, lease length, and current special offers. Our finance experts will be happy to discuss your lease options and provide a personalized quote on any new Bronco configuration.

How much can a Ford Bronco tow?

When properly equipped, the Bronco can tow up to 3,500 lbs – among the highest capacities in its class. Towing ranges from 3,500 lbs max on the Base up to 3,500 lbs for the Badlands, Wildtrak, and higher trims. Towing capacity depends on factors like engine, drivetrain, and installed towing package.

How much can a Ford Bronco Sport tow?

The Bronco Sport has a maximum tow rating of 2,200 lbs when properly configured. The standard 1.5L engine can tow up to 2,000 lbs. The more powerful 2.0L Badlands model achieves the max 2,200 lb tow rating. Towing capacity varies by trim and installed tow package.

Does Ford Bronco Sport have 4 wheel drive?

Yes, the Bronco Sport can be equipped with 4WD on all trim levels. The standard drivetrain is front-wheel drive. Adding 4WD with selectable drive modes is available as an upgrade on all trims to enhance all-weather capability and light off-road performance.

We hope this comprehensive Bronco vs Bronco Sport comparison has helped highlight the key differences and considerations when choosing between Ford’s rugged new SUVs. Please reach out with any other questions we can answer about the Bronco, Bronco Sport, or setting up a test drive!

Reviewed By: Ryan Dickerson, General Manager

With over two decades of experience across all facets of the automotive business, Ryan Dickerson leads Washougal’s Westlie Ford dealership with an unmatched passion for Ford vehicles. Applying his expertise in sales, finance, management, and customer service, he provides Westlie Ford clients with personalized guidance on finding the right Ford cars, trucks, SUVs, and crossovers to fit their needs. Known for taking a genuine interest in each customer, he ensures car-buyers receive the small-town friendly experience Westlie Ford is known for, while still providing big-dealership selection and value. Along with doing what he can with helping the local community, Dickerson stays up-to-date on the latest Ford models and technology.