Ford’s iconic Bronco nameplate has been synonymous with adventure, off-road capability, and rugged performance. However, in recent years, Ford has expanded the Bronco family with the more compact and city-friendly Bronco Sport. So, which one is the right choice for you? Whether you’re seeking the classic off-road capabilities of the Bronco or the more fuel-efficient, city-savvy Bronco Sport, at Butler Ford in Ashland, we’ll help you break down the key differences so you can decide.
Overview of Both Models
The Bronco and the Bronco Sport are built for adventure, but they cater to different needs. The Bronco is designed as a fully-fledged off-road SUV, offering a larger, more rugged frame and a body-on-frame construction, similar to the F-150 truck. The Bronco Sport, with its unibody structure, is aimed more at city drivers who still crave the occasional weekend adventure without the size and weight of the full Bronco. The Bronco Sport vs. the Bronco debate boils down to size, performance, and the kind of adventure you’re seeking.
An In-Depth Comparison: The Ford Bronco vs. the Ford Bronco Sport
To get a better sense of which Bronco is right for you, let’s compare these two SUVs across key categories, including design, performance, technology, and pricing.
Ford Bronco Sizes and Design: Breaking Down the Exterior and Interior
You can tell the difference between these two vehicles when looking at the Bronco Sport vs. the Bronco side by side. The 2024 Ford Bronco is a full-size SUV, with the Big Bend model measuring 189.4 inches long, 73 inches tall, and 75.9 inches wide. The 2024 Bronco Sport is smaller, measuring 172.7 inches in length, 70.2 inches in height, and 74.3 inches in width. This makes the Bronco Sport easier to manage in the city, while the Bronco’s larger frame delivers more cargo space and greater off-road capability.
The Ford Bronco offers both two-door and four-door configurations, giving it more flexibility for passengers and cargo. The Bronco Sport, available only as a four-door, offers generous interior space but falls short when it comes to passenger room and overall cabin space.
Performance and Powertrains: Engine Options and Driving Experience
When it comes to performance, the Bronco and Bronco Sport comparison includes factors such as engine specs and handling.
Horsepower, Torque, and Engine Types
Both offer a choice of two engines. The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport has a standard 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. You can opt for a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The larger Bronco offers more power with a standard 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque or an optional 2.7-liter turbo V-6 for 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Handling and Driving Impressions
On the road, the Bronco provides a more rugged and powerful driving experience, with exceptional off-road capabilities, especially when equipped with four-wheel drive. The Bronco Sport, while still capable, is more suited for daily driving and light off-roading. The Bronco Sport has a smoother ride in city conditions, making it a better choice if you spend more time on paved roads.
Technology and Connectivity Features
Both the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport come with Ford’s SYNC 4 system, featuring a large touch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Both the Bronco Sport and the base Ford Bronco have a more compact 8-inch instrument panel screen, while the Bronco has an optional 12-inch upgrade. There are also a number of available off-road features for the Bronco, such as Trail 1-Pedal Drive and Trail Turn Assist.
Efficiency: Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact
When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Bronco Sport has the edge. The Bronco Sport’s three-cylinder engine achieves an EPA-estimated 27 combined mpg, or 23 mpg combined for the 2.0-liter upgrade. The Ford Bronco’s base 2.3-liter is rated at 20 mpg, while the optional V-6 offers 17 mpg combined. If fuel efficiency is a priority, the Bronco Sport is the better choice for everyday commuting.
Utility: Cargo Capacity, Towing Capability, and Off-Road Prowess
Here’s how each vehicle compares in terms of practicality:
- Cargo space: The Ford Bronco has 38.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats in the 4-door or 22.4 cubic feet in the 2-door, while the Sport has 32.5 cubic feet.
- Towing capacities: The Bronco is the stronger contender when it comes to towing, capable of pulling 3,500 pounds with the right configuration. The Bronco Sport has a maximum towing capacity of 2,200 pounds, making it more suitable for lighter loads.
- Off-road capabilities: Both vehicles are built for off-road adventures, but the Bronco truly shines with its more advanced off-road features, including locking differentials, skid plates, and higher ground clearance. The Bronco Sport is designed for lighter off-roading but offers features such as Goes Over Any Type of Terrain, or G.O.A.T., modes and a more compact design that still offers impressive off-road ability.
Buyer’s Guide: Which Bronco Fits Your Profile?
If you mainly drive in the city and occasionally venture off-road, the Bronco Sport might be the better choice. If you’re seeking a more rugged and versatile off-road vehicle for weekend adventures, the Ford Bronco is a standout. The Bronco Sport is likely to have lower long-term costs because of its superior fuel efficiency and lower starting price. However, the Ford Bronco offers more robust performance and off-road capabilities that may justify its higher initial cost for adventure seekers.
Final Thoughts on the Ford Bronco vs. the Ford Bronco Sport Showdown
Ultimately, the Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport cater to different types of adventurers. The Bronco is the choice if you need a full-sized, off-road powerhouse with significant towing capacity and versatility. The Bronco Sport is a better option if you want a compact, efficient SUV that can still handle off-road conditions and urban environments. Both Broncos offer distinct benefits — the main difference is how you plan to use it. Want to experience the difference? Contact us at Butler Ford to schedule a test-drive of both models today.
