Ford Bronco vs. Bronco Sport: What's The Difference?

The Ford Bronco has risen in popularity recently, offering a new design and details that draw the eye. If you’ve ever gone to look at this vehicle, there are typically two selections available - the Bronco and the Bronco Sport. What sets them apart and what differences should you know in the Bronco vs. Bronco Sport?

Although there are many similarities here, you aren’t investing in the same vehicle if you go with the Bronco over the Bronco Sport or vice versa. It’s helpful to understand their separation to maximize your vehicle choice. Read on to understand some of the most distinct differences and which one comes out on top. 

Ford Bronco vs. Bronco Sport: What’s the Difference?

Although the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are similar vehicles, they are far from the same car. The Bronco and Bronco Sport are made for different purposes, though they offer similar styling to older Bronco designs. 

The biggest differences in the Bronco and Bronco Sport appear in the following areas:

• Overall size
• Performance
• Off-road ability

These are the most significant separations for the Bronco and Bronco Sport.

If you want something more city-oriented and lighter, it’s best to go with the Ford Bronco Sport. However, if you want something more rugged and adventurous, the Ford Bronco is the right answer. However, let’s dive into significant details of each vehicle to separate these vehicles for a simpler decision process. 

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Performance and Handling: Ford Bronco

The Bronco vs. Bronco Sport debate often centers around the performance of each vehicle. They each provide two powertrain selections and different power for the drivers.

Here are the available powertrain selections and performance details for the Bronco:

• 2.3-liter four-cylinder base engine/2.7-liter V6 engine
• 300 horsepower/330 horsepower
• 325 pound-feet of torque/415 pound-feet of torque
• 0-60 mpg in 6.7 seconds

This powerhouse can take down the road with ease.

On the other hand, here are the performance details for the smaller Bronco Sport:

• 1.5-liter three-cylinder base engine/2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
• 181 horsepower/250 horsepower 
• 190 pound-feet of torque/277 pound-feet of torque
• 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds

This power is solid when considering the smaller size and engine of the Bronco Sport.

The larger Bronco isn’t as simple to maneuver in small spaces as the smaller Bronco Sport, but it still brings well-weighted and effective steering potential. The Bronco Sport can also struggle to make you feel well in control when moving at slower speeds.

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DO FORD BRONCOS HOLD THEIR VALUE?

It’s hard to deny the Bronco’s new styling. But what about its value retention? Do Ford Broncos hold their value?

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Interior Features and Styling: Ford Bronco

Everyone wants the Ford Bronco and the Bronco Sport for their exterior details and styling, but it’s also vital to consider the interior appearance and styling choices. Naturally, where there is a size and price difference, there is a difference between the Bronco and Bronco Sport.

Here are the details you’ll access in the Bronco’s interior:

• High-quality materials with some plastic elements
• Standard features like Apple Carplay and Android Auto
• Smartphone integration
• 8-inch touchscreen
• Excellent screen resolution 
• Ample available tech features

The inside of the Ford Bronco is locked and loaded.

Here are the details you’ll access inside the Ford Bronco Sport:

• Nice materials, yet not as high-quality as the Bronco
• Standard features like Apple Carplay and Android Auto
• Quiet speeds

Unfortunately, there are poorly placed buttons and a low-res screen inside the Bronco Sport.

When considering the interior features and styling, there is no competition. The Ford Bronco is filled with features and technology and comes out on top of the Bronco Sport. 

Towing: Ford Bronco 

Another valuable selection when examining the Bronco vs. Bronco Sport is each vehicle’s towing ability. Many invest in these vehicles for their ability to drag behind heavy equipment, and the larger structure of the Ford Bronco makes it easy to see which is the winner. 

The Bronco has a body-on-frame construction, so it’s similar to a pick-up truck in its ability. It can handle 3,500 pounds. This number is the same as the Jeep Wrangler, which is a significant competitor.

The Bronco Sport falls behind in this area. It can only handle 2,200 pounds on a unibody frame, which isn’t ideal for those who love a good adventure.

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THE FORD BRONCO SPORT YEARS TO AVOID

If you’re interested in making the vehicle yours, you must understand the Ford Bronco Sport years to avoid.

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Price Point: Ford Bronco Sport

The price point is where the Ford Bronco Sport finally steps up and takes the cake. It doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as the Ford Bronco, but that lack of features lends itself to a lower price point.

Here’s the price point for the Ford Bronco Sport trims:

• Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend: $31,590
• Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Edition: $34,730
• Ford Bronco Sport Free Wheeling: $34,730
• Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks: $36,580
• Ford Bronco Sport Badlands: $41,590

The price isn’t crazy for the Ford Bronco Sport.

Here are the prices for the Ford Bronco:

• Ford Bronco Big Bend: $41,525
• Ford Bronco Black Diamond: $45,225
• Ford Bronco Outer Banks: $49,085
• Ford Bronco Heritage Edition: $50,450
• Ford Bronco Badlands: $51,990
• Ford Bronco Everglades: $57,415
• Ford Bronco Wildtrak: $62,120
• Ford Bronco Heritage Limited Edition: $71,580

The Ford Bronco is much more expensive.

Even the cheapest trim of the Bronco is as much as the most expensive Bronco Sport. If you want to save, the Sport is the answer.

Exterior Dimensions: Ford Bronco

Finally, in the Bronco vs. Bronco Sport debate is the exterior. The Bronco is much larger than the Sport, boasting a boxy and off-road-based exterior. 

For some, the lithe body of the Sport is likely more exciting and comfortable. However, the Bronco offers a powerful exterior and the ability to off-road with confidence. 

Which Vehicle Is the Winner?

There are pros and cons to each selection. While some enjoy the smaller size of the Bronco Sport, the Bronco is much better for its technology, features, and overall power capabilities.

It’s also vital to note neither vehicle is well-renowned for its performance. However, if you want the better of the two, we highly recommend investing in the Ford Bronco over the Sport.

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