These two Ford SUV models share the same name. Still, the Bronco and Bronco Sport are entirely different machines – from significant size and dimension differences to vastly dissimilar performance abilities. If you’re considering a Bronco SUV, you won’t be interested in buying the Bronco Sport, and vice versa. Here’s why.
Vast Size Difference
The Bronco Sport is a compact crossover SUV built on the Ford Escape platform. The Bronco is a full-size SUV in either a 2-door or 4-door version. Next to each other, they look entirely different – like those magicians Penn and Teller. Here’s a quick look at the dimensions for each below.
Exterior dimension comparison (inches):
The full-size Bronco SUV comes in 2- and 4-door versions, but we’ll compare the 4-door variants below (specs for 2022 models; full-size Bronco specs for Base models).
| Spec | Bronco Sport | Bronco 4-Door |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 105.1 | 116.1 |
| Length | 172.7 | 189.4 |
| Width, excluding mirrors | 74.3 | – |
| Width, including mirrors | 82.2 | – |
| Width, mirrors folded | 76.3 | 75.9 |
| Height | 70.2 (Base, Big Bend) 70.3 (Outer Banks) 71.4 (Badlands) | 73.0 (soft-top) |
The Bronco Sport: A Subcompact Crossover SUV
The Bronco Sport is for shoppers seeking a small crossover SUV, including potential Ford Escape shoppers with outdoor lifestyles, trading in parking lots for the mountains on the weekends. The subcompact Bronco Sport packs rugged looks, cargo, and off-road tech unfamiliar to the Escape. And while they’re both built on the new Escape platform, the similarities end there – the Bronco’s architecture is entirely different.
The range-topping Bronco Sport Badlands we reviewed is the go-to option for those willing to drop more money on a small crossover. This trim is designed for rugged terrain with its 2.0L EcoBoost engine, advanced 4×4, G.O.A.T modes, 28.5-inch tires, metal bash plates, and more. Plus, it’ll tow 3,500 pounds maximum with the tow package, known as the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
The Bronco Sport lineup caters to various preferences and budgets. While the Badlands model may be perceived as overkill for many due to its higher price and capabilities, those seeking a distinctive and potentially badass crossover with a flexible budget will find it worthwhile. The three alternative flavors include the refined Outer Banks, adventure-ready Big Bend, and the entry-level Base with a fuel-efficient 1.5L EcoBoost engine, each catering to different preferences and needs.
The Bronco: A Full-Size SUV with 2- and 4-Door Configurations
Well, now we get into a different area. The larger Bronco is a modern-day rendition of its glorious, former past – and a total beast when optioned out the right way, including the stellar Sasquatch Package. The larger Bronco is really for those looking to go off the grid. It is available in two versions – a 2-door or 4-door – and has a long and somewhat exhausting list of trims and options.
The 2-door is more stout, burlier, and worthy to take on the Baja all these years, like Saleen’s “Big Oly” Bronco paying homage to the original desert racer. But most families likely won’t opt for the 2-door, making it more agile in the cities for condo dwellers while more capable of taking on the rough stuff when needed.
The 4-door comes with a standard soft-top and optional removable hardtop perfect for families, so to us, it serves more as a beach cruiser, while the 2-door is less about passengers and more about having fun.
Bronco Sport Vs. Bronco Engine Differences
By now, it’s clear very different powertrains propel the Bronco and Bronco Sport.
Bronco Sport:
- Standard engine: 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder (181 hp)
- Optional engine: 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder (250 hp)
Like most small crossover SUVs today, the Bronco Sport offers fuel efficiency with ample power – the standard is a 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder yielding 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder churns out 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both powerplants mate to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, with the base engine delivering 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway and the more powerful four-cylinder mill dropping the fuel economy to 21/26 mpg city/highway.
Bronco SUV:
- Standard engine: 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp)
- Optional engine: 2.7L V6 (330 hp)
- Bronco Raptor engine: 3.0L twin-turbo (418 hp)
In contrast, the larger Bronco SUV in entry-level form comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while a twin-turbo 2.7L V6 is optional, churning out 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Both powerplants mate to a standard eight-speed automatic transmission, with the base engine delivering 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, and the more powerful four-cylinder mill dropping the fuel economy to 21/26 mpg city/highway.
Or you can opt for the 418 horsepower Bronco Raptor we reviewed, flossing 440 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a total of seven G.O.A.T. (go over any terrain) modes – all courtesy of a 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine.
Each mill mates to a 10-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. A seven-speed manual transmission is optional for the four-cylinder engine. The standard and optional engine choices are the same till Badlands.
Related – Ford Bronco Engine Options: Here Are Your Powertrain Choices.
Takeaway
When comparing the off-road prowess of the Ford Bronco Sport and the larger Bronco lineup, the latter presents a more extensive array of options, especially across 2- and 4-door models. The Ford Escape alternative, the Bronco Sport, shares the same platform and dimensions but caters to those seeking a rugged, nimble, and fuel-efficient subcompact SUV for various lifestyles, from empty-nesters to young families without kids.
On the other hand, if you’re eyeing a Jeep Wrangler but prefer a different brand, the Bronco SUV stands out with a bigger engine, commanding road presence, and advanced off-road tech, offering options like the 418-hp Bronco Raptor or the off-road-focused Bronco Everglades SUV, providing a versatile lineup tailored to diverse preferences. In the end, the choice between the small Bronco Sport, the sportier 2-door, or the family-friendly 4-door Bronco depends on your specific lifestyle needs.
