Overview
In 2021, Ford finally unveiled the newest additions to their collection – Ford Bronco and its SUV counterpart, Ford Bronco Sport. These two vehicles were released simultaneously, which is why people confuse one with the other. The brand successfully created an off-road vehicle line with the name Bronco. While named the same, these vehicles are opposites, except for the boxy, tough-guy design aesthetic and horse badge.
So, how are these two vehicles different? Consider the following points.
What’s the Difference?
Chassis
Bronco is based on a traditional SUV with a body-one frame, a longitudinally-mounted engine, and the Ford Ranger pickup truck. On the other hand, Bronco Sport is FWD-based and was designed based on a transverse engine. It has a unitized chassis and body reminiscent of the Ford Escape crossover. This car is what experts call SUVs based on vehicles. But since Ford is no longer selling sedans, this version is called ’unibody.’
Suspension
Bronco has a control-arm type and a disconnected device for maximum suspension articulation in terms of suspension. You’ll see a live axle by rods or radius arms on its rear. It also comes with a Panhard rod and competitive off-road options like underbody armoring, rear differentials, and locking front.
On the other hand, Bronco Sport kept the basics of Escape. It also comes with a rear and front strut multilink suspension design. It also comes with new dampers and springs. Ford also revised the vehicle’s knuckles and control arms to improve ground clearance, suspension travel, and track width. The Sport’s unibody was constructed with independent suspension. This is meant to make car rides smoother than the non-sport variety’s off-road setup.
Engines
When it comes to engines, Bronco has a 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost that can deliver 310 lb-ft and 270 hp. It also has a V-6 EcoBoost 2.7-liter twin-charged engine that could crank up to 400 lb-ft and 310 hp torque.
On the other hand, Bronco Sport has similar engine options as Ford Escape – it has a three-cylinder 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that could produce 190-lb ft. and 181 hp torque. It also has a four-cylinder EcoBoost that’s capable of producing 275 lb-ft. And 245 hp torque.
Transmissions
Bronco has a new-to-seven-speed Ford Getrag 7MT1550 manual gearbox in terms of transmission. It features a ’granny gear’ that’s super low and is considered the first ratio specifically for extreme rock crawling. It also has an option for Ford’s excellent ten-speed they developed with General Motors. On the other hand, Bronco Sport has the same eight-speed across the range automatic transmission as Ford Escape.
Pricing and Rim levels
The most crucial consideration in any vehicle purchase is your options and the cost at the end of the day. When it comes to Bronco and Bronco Sport, the price difference is not that skyrocketing. However, if you have a tight budget, the differences could be the deciding factor.
The standard Ford Bronco vehicle’s price starts at $28,500. The most expensive model for this variety is $57,410. The difference between the cheapest and most expensive variety is around $28,910. On the other hand, the SUV variety starts at $26,660, with the First Edition costing $38,160.
Bronco has seven different trim types in terms of trim options – First Edition, Wildtrak, Badlands, Outer Banks, Black Diamond, Big Bend, and Base. The brand’s four-door variants are more expensive than its two-door counterparts. The trim levels of these cars vary based on technology, engine, and other essential features.
On the other hand, Ford Bronco Sport has five different trim options, namely First Edition, Badlands, Outer Banks, Big Bend, and Base. Although the Sport has many lacking Bronco features, you could say that the price may still be worth it. Bronco Sport’s First Edition trim level can be yours for $800 cheaper than the Bronco Outer Banks option. Here, you might miss the critical features like a V-6 engine and detaching doors; First Edition’s luxury would make up for it.
Common Problems
Which is bigger Bronco Sport or Bronco?
The big difference in size between the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport is that the Ford Bronco has a 2-door option and a 4-door option. On the other hand, the Ford Bronco Sport only has a 4-door option. Since the Ford Bronco has two size options, the Bronco's length ranges from 173.7 inches to 189.4 inches. In addition to being more focused on off-roading, the Bronco is more powerful than the Bronco Sport. The 4-door Bronco is noticeably larger than the Sport, while the 2-door Bronco is similar in size.
Which One Should You Buy?
If you’ll mostly be driving on-road, the Bronco Sport is the way to go. It offers classic design, a more compact size, and a lower price point. If off-roading is your main goal, the Bronco has more capability, hands down. It’s a true competitor to the impressive Jeep Wrangler.
The Verdict
The right Ford vehicle for you is the one that fits your needs. If you need a no-door, off-roading vehicle that also drives fast, then your Ford vehicle of choice should be the Ford Bronco. This is especially true if you consider the base models for both variations. The base version is only $1,840, more expensive than the Bronco Sport base model.
If you’re not in it for the luxury and are more focused on the vehicle’s capability, you have no reason to go for Ford Bronco Sport at the base model trim level. Note that as you add more luxurious features to your vehicle of choice, the car also gets more expensive. So, you seriously need to consider what are your basics and non-negotiables. If you know what features you want, it’s easier to choose. You can decide more confidently if you know which factor to accept and forego.
In the end, there’s no one size fits all decision. This is similar to saying that no Bronco type’s best for everyone. This is precisely the premise why the company also made different variations of the vehicle. Factors like what kind of lifestyle you have, who will ride with you in your vehicle, and what you will use it for the matter. Your answers to these questions tell the kind of vehicle you should have.
If you’re shopping for a smaller-than-standard SUV without regard for power or speed, Ford Bronco Sport is right up your alley. If you’re looking for a replacement for Jeep Wrangler Rubicon or a full-size SUV, your only option is to go for the Bronco. Regardless of your choice, you can take advantage of the plethora of options they come with. On top of that, both have sleek interiors. This only means that when it’s a question of which is better, Ford Bronco vs Bronco Sport, it’s 100% up to the buyer.
Take these points and tips we shared. Make your list of essential features, and compare your Bronco of choice against this list. In no time, you can make the best decision.
Keyword: Ford Bronco vs. Bronco Sport: Which Is Better?