2025 Ford Bronco Sport: Almost Perfect

A few years ago, Ford surprised us all by announcing not just one, but two Broncos. The regular Bronco was the one we were all eagerly awaiting, but as it turns out, the American automaker was incredibly clever in its approach—the Bronco Sport has proven to be by far the more popular of the two. In fact, the Bronco Sport is even capable of outselling the Escape.

For 2025, the Ford Bronco Sport introduces a new Sasquatch package that makes it even more capable off-road. This package includes 29-inch all-terrain tires, Bilstein rear shocks, a lifted suspension, and skid plates underneath the vehicle—not to mention the Rally drive mode. Ford also updated the onboard technologies and software. Beyond that, most of the changes are subtle aesthetic enhancements.

Trim Levels and Pricing

Usually, choosing between trims is a matter of a few different options. That's not the case with the Bronco Sport, where each trim level has its own distinct personality. The Big Bend serves as the entry-level model, but it's far from basic, which helps justify its $40,790 starting price. Then comes the Heritage Edition at $44,790, featuring a unique look with white-painted wheels, roof, and grille. The Free Wheeling edition shares the same starting price but offers an even more nostalgic and flamboyant style. For those looking for a more refined and upscale version, there's the Outer Banks at $45,490. Finally, the Badlands trim sits at the top of the range and offers everything off-road enthusiasts could ask for.

Category and Competition

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport competes in the most competitive segment in the industry—compact SUVs for the mass market. Most vehicles in this segment lean toward simplicity, with anonymous styling and limited mechanical options. That's not the case with the Bronco Sport.

Rivals: Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Hornet, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan

Design and Technology

The Bronco Sport certainly knows how to turn heads. It's a model full of character with a strong personality, combining both modern and retro design elements. Not to mention its beautiful color palette.

The interior of the Bronco Sport is spacious and very comfortable. I particularly like the dashboard layout and the abundance of practical storage solutions throughout the cabin. The ability to open just the rear glass window is a clever touch by the manufacturer—and just one of many. The Bronco Sport also features one of the most advanced infotainment systems in the industry, thanks to SYNC 4.

Performance

There are two engines in the Bronco Sport lineup. The first is a 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder, producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque—more than enough for a vehicle of this size. It can tow up to 2,000 pounds. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, and 4x4 is standard. It offers an average fuel consumption of 9.3 L/100 km in the city and 8.1 L/100 km on the highway.

The second option is the legendary 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, delivering 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It also comes with the 8-speed automatic transmission and standard 4x4. While slightly thirstier, it allows for a towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds.

Weak Points

• Some of the interior plastics are low quality.

• The price can rise quickly with option packages.

• No hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains available.

Strong Points

• It's a functional and versatile vehicle.

• Its off-road capabilities far exceed most compact SUVs currently on the market.

• Its technology is enjoyable to use, and it attracts attention for all the right reasons.

Signature Element

The Bronco Sport evokes nostalgia, meets the needs of daily life, and invites adventure.

Final Word

In my opinion, Ford should retire the Escape and expand the Bronco Sport lineup. With a few more trim options—and especially the addition of hybrid powertrains—I believe this SUV could easily become one of the most popular in its category.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier