The Bronco and Bronco Sport: Which Beckons Louder?
It might feel like a serious impasse if you’re torn between the Ford Bronco and the Bronco Sport; it’s easy to fall in love with both of these models, but you can only get one. They look similar, share a name, and perhaps you don’t even see the difference; however, just because you don’t see the differences right away doesn’t mean there aren’t any. Cruise by Loganville Ford—your local Ford dealer—and you’re sure to see these two impressive models on our lot; if you were to pull over and take a closer look, the differences would start to emerge…
If not, no worries; that’s why we’re here! Drivers looking to get behind the wheel of an iconic Ford Bronco or its sporty sibling, the Bronco Sport, are simply trying to pick the right SUV for their driving needs and lifestyle. The mission doesn’t have to be so complicated. Ultimately, you’ll be glad to know the differences between the Bronco and Bronco Sport, because those differences will set you free.
So, if you’re stuck between loving both models, there are really only a few things you must consider before making your final choice—and we’re here to make that choice easy for drivers like you.
Different Appeals for Different Drivers
Both the Bronco and Bronco Sport share a name that drivers instantly recognize. The Bronco nameplate brings to mind a mud-slinging, tough, truck-like SUV built for off-roading fun and an adventurous lifestyle.
When you look at the exterior of the Bronco and Bronco Sport, both display a similar styling that says these midsize SUVs are built for fun but also offer practicality thanks to their compact bodies, boxy good looks, and noteworthy ground clearance. Whether you’re dealing with a snowy road or a rutted camping trail, the Bronco and Bronco Sport are ready to help you tackle it head-on.
If you find your days often take you into the great outdoors, or you’re more likely to be found in the woods than the city, the Bronco is the vehicle for you. It was designed to take on competition like the Jeep Wrangler. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, is smaller and more tailored for tackling the urban jungle or weekend adventure; this is because the Bronco Sport is on a car-based platform, which gives drivers a smoother riding experience than an off-road beast that’s heavy and designed for mountain slopes and rocky trails. If you want the comfort of a crossover, stick with the Bronco Sport, and you’re good to go!
Keep in mind that the Bronco Sport is still part of the Bronco family, so it’s still more than capable of going beyond the pavement thanks to its all-wheel drive and switchable performance modes, which can be set to help you navigate a variety of terrains.
While you might not notice at first, if you look closely, you’ll see the Bronco is the big brother of the Bronco Sport. It’s not drastically bigger, but it does boast extra cargo space. And because of its boxy design, its head and leg room could make or break your choice, especially if you’re on the taller side. So keep in mind that, if you want more room, focus on the Bronco; if you’re smaller, the Bronco Sport will do nicely.
Since the Bronco is slightly larger, this is one of the reasons you’ll notice the prices between the two vehicles also differ. A new 2024 Bronco could be yours starting at $39,130, while a Bronco Sport’s price tag is noticeably lower at $31,230.[a] These prices will go up as you ascend in trim levels, with higher trim options adding as many more features as they do dollars.
Whether your concern is space, comfort, or performance, both the Bronco and Bronco Sport bring enough—and enough difference—to appeal to drivers from all walks of life. We also like that these two SUVs aren’t all that different either; both offer noteworthy technology and safety and comfort features.
What to Consider When Comparing
A vehicle is a big investment, so it’s important to take into account your driving habits and lifestyle when picking out an SUV. You want to make sure there’s plenty of room for your passengers and all your cargo. You also want to keep in mind features you might or might not need so as to avoid paying extra for things you won’t use.
While both the Bronco and Bronco Sport offer seating for five, knowing that the 2023 Bronco offers a maximum of 77.6 cu.ft. of cargo space compared to the Bronco Sport’s maximum of 65.2 cu.ft. means you can better plan for the vehicle that will fit your lifestyle. Plus, if you want a roomier cabin, the Bronco offers more head and leg room; if you’re tall or want a vehicle to stretch out in, keep the Bronco in mind.
What about features? You don’t want to pay for tech or comfort features you’ll never use, or you don’t want to miss out on some you might have your heart set on. The Bronco offers several packages to help drivers get the features they want and customize their vehicles to their liking. The Mid Package for 2023 is available on any of the Bronco trims and adds things like Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control and heated front seats for more comfort, plus safety features like Lane Keep Assist for added peace of mind. Drivers can also add to the Mid Package with the High Package or the Lux Package, both of which add to the Bronco’s convenience and safety.
Keep in mind that while the Bronco is aimed more at the off-roading audience, the Bronco Sport is still a capable SUV packed with ample safety and comfort features. For more, drivers can either level up to high-end trims like the Outer Banks trim or the Badlands trim for more choices regarding off-roading, tech, or comfort.
Do you have a family, or are you a solo driver? Do you want the convenience of the four-door, or is the two-door fine? Make sure you check out both of the vehicle’s body styles because while the Bronco can be had with a two- or four-door body, the Bronco Sport is only offered with two doors. The Bronco also offers the option for a hard or soft top with removable door panels. The Bronco Sport offers plenty of comfort and convenience but does not offer these options, which may or may not matter depending on your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
The Bronco and Bronco Sport Make Their Statements
Both the Bronco and Bronco Sport might look similar at a brief glance, but look closer, and you’ll see both of these vehicles are great in their own right. Both offer seating for five, which is excellent, but the Bronco is bigger and offers more cargo room. Also, remember the price: the Bronco Sport costs less than its big brother.
The Bronco Sport is perfect for the urban driver who likes to get away on the weekends. It has no problem offering great tech and comfort features but also gives you the option to level up to a more rugged trim if you prefer. Meanwhile, the larger Bronco is designed for nature and offers open-air options, much like its primary competition, the Jeep Wrangler. If you want a vehicle that can tackle rutted roads or sandy trails, the Bronco is what you’re looking for.
In the end, we have to say both SUVs are great options if you want to add a little bit of toughness to your day without compromising modern creature comforts. Their great trim options offer additional performance and tech features, meaning you never have to compromise. As they say, the devil is in the details, and you want to ensure your vehicle has no problem handling your daily drive wherever it might take you.
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