Behind the Wheel
Most Bronco Sport models feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, including our test model. Thanks to turbocharging, this small engine delivers an impressive punch, generating 180 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers are comparable to what you’d expect from a typical naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine.
If you opt for the top-tier Badlands model, you get an upgrade to a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This powerhouse produces 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. In addition to the extra muscle, the Badlands trim includes an enhanced all-wheel-drive system designed for serious off-road adventures, setting it apart from the standard all-wheel-drive system found on the lower trims. Both engine options come paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Although Ford refers to the Bronco Sport’s system as four-wheel drive, it’s a more sophisticated all-wheel-drive setup. Unlike traditional four-wheel-drive systems where the front and rear axles can be locked to spin together, the all-wheel-drive system in the Bronco Sport adapts each wheel’s movement based on road conditions.
G.O.A.T. System
The standout feature of the Bronco Sport is its terrain management system, designed to make its all-wheel-drive system function more like a conventional four-wheel drive. All models come equipped with Ford’s G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) system, which allows drivers to select between different drive modes using a simple dial. The available modes include Normal, ECO, Sport, Slippery, and Sand, ensuring that the Bronco Sport can tackle a wide range of terrains with ease.
We kept our Bronco Sport on hard pavement most times but switched to gravelly roads for picture-taking time. That type of road is easy to navigate with the right vehicle. And the Bronco Sport did itself justice. Switching to “slippery” mode ensures ideal footing and that’s exactly what we experienced. Care, though, should be taken when tackling tough terrain. Outside of the Badlands, you won’t have the benefit of skidplates to offer underbody protection. Always know your space before traversing challenging courses.
The Competition
The utility vehicle market is crowded with entries. The Subaru Forester offers off-road chops as does the Jeep Compass. Special versions of the Toyota RAV4 are also designed to flex their off-road chops.
Other models in the segment include the Kia Sportage, Nissan Rogue, GMC Terrain, and Honda CR-V. The Dodge Journey, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Volkswagen Taos, and Mitsubishi Outlander are four others. From Mazda, you’ll find two models: the CX-5 and the CX-50.
Parting Thoughts
The Ford Bronco Sport continues to deliver a rugged experience that few models in this class match. Along with the Escape, Ford saturates the segment with powerful options. We recommend examining both models, then making your decision based on need and usage. Choose the Escape for thrift and economy. Or settle on the Bronco Sport if an off-road adventure is to your liking.
