The 2024 Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV designed for off-road adventures while maintaining practicality for daily use. It shares its platform with the Ford Escape but offers more rugged styling and enhanced off-road capabilities.
The 2024 Bronco Sport comes with a standard 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. A more useful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, is available. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Standard 4x4 systems include a twin-clutch rear differential for better traction. Higher trims offer advanced off-road features like a terrain management system, hill descent control, and a locking rear differential.
| Trim | Key Features | Starting Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|
| Base | 1.5L engine, 4x4, 8-inch touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot360 | $29,900 |
| Outdoor | Roof rack, all-terrain tires, leather-wrapped steering wheel | $32,500 |
| Badlands | 2.0L engine, locking rear differential, off-road suspension | $36,500 |
| Adventure | td>Premium cloth seats, heated front seats, B&O sound system$34,500 |
The Bronco Sport excels in off-road scenarios thanks to its short wheelbase and high ground clearance. The Badlands trim, in particular, is designed for serious off-roading with features like a 33-inch tire clearance and a water fording capability of up to 31 inches.
Ford's G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) system automatically adjusts throttle, transmission shift points, and traction control based on the selected terrain. Modes include Sand, Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, and Baja.
Many assume the Bronco Sport is just a smaller version of the full-size Bronco. While they share design cues, the Bronco Sport is built on the Ford Escape platform, making it more suited for urban environments and light off-roading compared to the larger Bronco's heavy-duty frame.
Another misconception is that the Bronco Sport lacks towing capacity. In reality, it can tow up to 2,200 pounds when properly equipped, sufficient for small trailers or recreational gear.
During a test drive in rocky terrain, the Bronco Sport's Badlands trim handled steep inclines and loose surfaces with ease. The locking rear differential provided excellent traction, and the terrain management system adjusted smoothly between modes. However, the smaller size meant less stability at high speeds on rough roads compared to larger SUVs.
For daily driving, the Bronco Sport offers a comfortable ride with responsive handling. The interior is well-designed, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. The available 2.0L engine provides ample power for both city and highway driving.