Sibling Rivalry: Comparing the Bronco and Bronco Sport

The Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport have both captured the hearts of SUV drivers, each offering distinct characteristics that check many boxes, whether you’re looking for a dependable SUV for commuting or hitting the trails. At the same time, they also have some similarities, which might make it challenging to determine which option is best for you. The good news is that you don’t have to decide on your own when shopping for a Ford Bronco for sale, not with The Ford Store San Leandro team on your side.

Since 1991, our family-owned dealership has helped countless drivers wade through our many options to find the right vehicles for their needs, and we’d love to help you as well. The truth is that we approach things a bit differently, focusing on what you need in your next vehicle and working on building a lasting relationship rather than just pushing for a sale. You’ll find that we offer clear communication and transparency in our quest to earn your trust and be your dealership of choice. If you’re curious about what makes the Bronco and Bronco Sport tick, including their similarities and differences, we have the answers. Then, stop in and talk with a member of our team to get a closer look.

Heritage and Design

As one of the longest-running American automotive brands, there is a lot of history behind the Ford name. That history shines through the design of the Ford lineup, especially when looking at the classic styling of the Ford Bronco. Essentially, the newest version of the Ford Bronco is a reimagining of the popular 4×4 off-roader that debuted in 1966. Its overall look—which is based on the Ford Ranger’s body-on-frame chassis—contains classic design elements, such as the boxy body, round headlamps, and aggressive grille, all of which honor its origins. When looking at the Ford Bronco, you’ll note that you can choose from a two-door or four-door design with removable doors and top panels for an open-air experience, similar to its closest competitor, the Jeep Wrangler.

On the Ford Bronco Sport side of things, you’ll find that it is built to be urban-friendly, sharing a platform with the Ford Escape, with a compact footprint and responsive handling. That’s not to say that the Bronco Sport doesn’t take design cues from its larger sibling, but it does lean more toward a modern, streamlined style. For instance, the Bronco Sport’s roof and doors are fixed, and it has a higher roofline, giving rear seat passengers plenty of headroom, which is key when taking it on a road trip with friends.

Performance and Off-Road Capability

It’s easy to see why there’s some confusion between these two SUVs. After all, having “Sport” added to its name might make one think the Bronco Sport is the one you want with you on the trails. However, the opposite is true—it’s the Bronco that is designed to handle the toughest trails with ease. When shopping, you’ll notice that the 2025 Bronco offers three different engine options, one of those providing you with up to 418 hp. There are also seven different drive modes, thanks to the brand’s advanced GOAT (Goes Over Any Terrain) mode technology.

Regarding the engine options, the choices include a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 with 300 hp, a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with 330 hp, and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with 418 hp. Along with that, the transmission options include a seven-speed manual with a crawl gear and a 10-speed automatic, which further highlights the vehicle’s versatility. The Bronco also has available advanced features, such as Trail Turn Assist, front and rear locking differentials, a sway bar disconnect, and 35-inch tires. Additionally, its 11.6 inches of ground clearance and 33.5 inches of water fording capacity cement its off-road expertise.

If the Bronco Sport is the SUV you choose, you can still enjoy some off-road functionality, but it is best suited for light to moderate tracks unless you opt for higher trim levels, such as the Badlands trim. The Sport’s engine lineup consists of a standard 1.5L EcoBoost I-3 with 181 hp or an available 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 with 250 hp. Like the Bronco, all Bronco Sport models come standard with all-wheel drive and GOAT modes, with the Outer Banks and Badlands trims offering a twin-clutch rear-drive unit and extra ground clearance for rougher terrain. The Bronco Sport’s off-road performance is nothing to laugh at, giving you 8.8 inches of ground clearance and 23.6 inches of water fording, but it’s nowhere near what you get with the Bronco.

Interior and Comfort

Simply put, the Ford Bronco is rugged and customizable, which is one of many reasons why it has a loyal following among those who prefer unpaved to paved roads. It also offers a lot in terms of functionality and durability, especially in its interior. For instance, you can find Bronco trims with available rubberized flooring, marine-grade vinyl seats, and drain plugs, which make cleaning up after muddy outings easier than ever before. Regarding roominess, the Bronco has plenty of it, along with technological advancements, including Ford’s SYNC 4 system and a seamless connection to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Ford Bronco Sport, on the other hand, focuses on functionality through and through. This works well for daily drivers but also helps keep things organized and comfortable for weekend getaways. One look and you’ll see that its interior boasts high-quality materials, comfortable seats, and innovative storage solutions such as under-seat storage and MOLLE straps on the seatbacks. Additionally, the back seats fold flat, and the cargo area features a built-in bottle opener. Higher trims give you the option to choose the rubberized flooring mentioned above. The Bronco Sport ticks the boxes when it comes to technology as well, giving you the same SYNC 4 system you’ll find in the Bronco, along with an available premium B&O sound system and additional driver assistance functions to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

Target Audience

As you can imagine, the Bronco and the Bronco Sport don’t necessarily have the same target audience, although they can blend together at times. For the Bronco, off-road enthusiasts and outdoor explorers are the key demographic. In addition, it appeals to buyers who value capability, customizability, and the ability to explore challenging terrain whenever and wherever. Even the door options speak to different drivers, with the two-door variant aimed at purists who cherish tradition, while the four-door model accommodates families or groups of friends who want easier accessibility during their off-road adventures.

On the other hand, the Bronco Sport is suitable for drivers seeking a versatile, compact SUV for daily commuting and occasional outdoor adventures. While it appeals to those who love weekend camping vacations or mild trail exploration, it’s just as popular with those needing a city-friendly vehicle that can navigate tight streets and parking spaces.

Exploring the Similarities: Bronco and Bronco Sport

The truth is there are many more differences than similarities, which makes sense as these are two different models in the lineup despite their similar looks and names. However, each SUV highlights the brand’s heritage through design touches and offering off-road capabilities. Also, they share much of the same innovative technology, from Ford’s signature SYNC infotainment system to the advanced driver assist features that are part of Ford Co-Pilot360. Both SUVs also cater to drivers who enjoy adventure; they simply offer varying degrees of competence in that regard. Finally, they both offer a seating capacity of five and various trim levels to consider, allowing you to prioritize what you need in your next SUV.

Stop By and Check Out the Bronco and Bronco Sport

The Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are two separate takes on adventure-ready SUVs. The full-size Bronco is a powerhouse for off-road drivers, with unequaled capability and a classic design. On the other hand, the Bronco Sport is a practical, city-friendly alternative with great cargo space and the ability to tackle easier trails when required.

The choice between the two is based on your priorities. If you would rather be on the trails than off, the Bronco is your best option. However, if you’re looking for a versatile SUV that can fit into your daily life while also fulfilling your adventurous side every once in a while, the Bronco Sport might be the choice for you. Either way, our team would be honored to show you the ins and outs of both models, ensuring you find your best match. Stop by today to meet our team and take a test drive!