The Ford Bronco and its little brother, the Ford Bronco Sport, are two of the most fun and exciting SUVs in Ford’s lineup, offering rugged capability and stylish design. While both models carry the legendary Bronco name, they cater to different drivers with unique needs and preferences.
At Mike White Ford in North Idaho, we want our customers to find the perfect vehicle that matches their lifestyles. If you’re trying to decide between the Bronco and Bronco Sport, this guide will help you understand their key differences and which one is the best fit for you.
Size and Design
Ford Bronco: Built as a true off-road SUV, the full-sized Bronco offers a boxy, rugged design with removable doors and a roof for an open-air driving experience. It comes in two- and four-door configurations, making it versatile for both adventure-seekers and families.
Bronco Sport: A compact SUV, the Bronco Sport retains the Bronco’s bold styling but is more streamlined for urban and highway driving. It does not have removable doors or a roof, but it still features a rugged, outdoorsy design with a high stance and practical features.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
Ford Bronco: Designed for serious off-roaders, the Bronco boasts advanced 4×4 systems, front and rear locking differentials, and a Terrain Management System™ with up to seven G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) Modes™. Higher trims include Bilstein shocks, rock rails, and heavy-duty skid plates, making it one of the most capable off-road vehicles on the market.
Bronco Sport: While still offering impressive all-wheel-drive capability, the Bronco Sport is better suited for light off-road adventures. It features standard 4×4 and five G.O.A.T. Modes™. Available all-terrain tires make it great for camping trips, gravel roads, and mild trails but not extreme rock crawling like its bigger Bronco brother.
Engine Options and Power
Ford Bronco: Available with two powerful turbocharged engines:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp, 325 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (330 hp, 415 lb-ft of torque)
- High-performance Bronco Raptor model with a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 delivering 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque
- 7-speed manual or 10-speed automatic transmission
Bronco Sport: Offers two efficient engine choices:
- 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 (181 hp, 190 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 (250 hp, 277 lb-ft of torque)
- Standard 8-speed automatic transmission
Interior and Comfort
Ford Bronco: Designed for rugged durability, the Bronco’s interior features washout rubberized flooring, marine-grade vinyl seating (on some trims), and a high-tech, adventure-ready dashboard with an available 12-inch touchscreen. Higher trims offer leather-trimmed seats and premium materials.
Bronco Sport: The Sport offers a more refined, city-friendly interior with comfortable seating, an easy-to-use infotainment system, and available premium materials like leather. It also has a versatile cargo management system with an available slide-out table and under-seat storage.
Technology and Safety Features
Both models come equipped with Ford’s SYNC® 4 infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and an available Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Ford Bronco: Features trail-specific technology, including Trail Control™, Trail Turn Assist, and Off-Road Navigation. Ford Co-Pilot360™, adaptive cruise control options are available.
Bronco Sport: This model offers more urban-friendly features, such as Ford Co-Pilot360™, adaptive cruise control, and an available hands-free power liftgate.
Who Should Choose the Ford Bronco?
The Bronco is ideal for drivers who:
- Want a true off-road vehicle capable of tackling extreme terrain
- Enjoy customization options like removable doors, roof choices, and modular accessories
- Need higher towing capacity (up to 4,500 lbs) for hauling gear or trailers
- Plan to take their SUV on overlanding, rock crawling, or desert adventures
Who Should Choose the Bronco Sport?
The Bronco Sport is an excellent fit for drivers who:
- Want a more compact, fuel-efficient SUV for daily driving
- Need occasional off-road capability for weekend adventures
- Prefer a comfortable and high-tech interior for commuting
- Appreciate features like a lower starting price and better fuel economy
Test Drive Both and Compare at Mike White Ford
Still unsure which Bronco is right for you? The best way to decide is to experience both firsthand! Mike White Ford has showrooms in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, and we invite you to visit one of them to test drive the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport. Our expert team welcomes your questions and will help you find the perfect Bronco for your lifestyle. Contact us today to find out more or schedule a test drive. Start your adventure!