The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is here to shake up the compact SUV market with its adventurous spirit. Inheriting the name and the untamed essence of its bigger brother, it promises to be more than just a pretty face dressed in trail gear. But does it deliver?
If you’re looking for a small SUV that doesn’t flinch when faced with mud, the 2025 Bronco Sport presents itself as the most rugged option in its class. Let’s explore together what this new generation brings to the table (both the good and not-so-good).
What Has Really Changed in the 2025 Bronco Sport?
ford has certainly put in the effort, introducing significant updates for the 2025 Bronco Sport. The star of the show is the optional Sasquatch package available for the Outer Banks and Badlands trims. But what does that actually mean in practice?
To start, the Sasquatch package adds more robust steel bumpers, complete with a front brush guard and rear towing hooks. Lower skid plates enhance the protection of the underbody, and ground clearance gets a slight boost. The cherry on top is the 29-inch all-terrain tires with aggressive tread patterns. The Badlands Sasquatch version even comes with exclusive Bilstein rear shocks. But do you really *need* all of this for a weekend outing?
Inside, the change is striking: gone is the old 8-inch screen, replaced by a generous 13.2-inch display featuring the more modern and connected Sync 4 system. Goodbye, Sync 3! Plus, a digital instrument cluster of 12.3 inches is now standard across all versions. Visually, subtle tweaks to the bumpers help distinguish the 2025 model. Ford has also included more standard driving assistants, like adaptive cruise control.
Performance: Power Under the Adventurous Hood
The heart of the 2025 Bronco Sport beats in two tempos. The base model comes with a familiar 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 180 hp. This engine is shared with the Ford Escape, but here, all-wheel drive (AWD) comes standard, proving its off-road capabilities are genuine.
For those seeking more power, especially for overtaking or steep climbs, there’s the option of a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 hp. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, the larger engine features paddle shifters on the steering wheel and upgraded cooling components. The pressing question is: does the 1.5L engine suffice for daily driving and light adventures, or is the 2.0L engine nearly essential to truly feel the “Bronco spirit”?
Off-Road Performance: Where It Shines (or Not?)
This is where the Bronco Sport aims to stand out. All models come with all-wheel drive, which is a positive in comparison to many urban SUVs. However, the Badlands versions, along with those equipped with the Sasquatch package, elevate the game’s stakes.
These configurations feature an enhanced AWD system with a rear twin-clutch and locking differential (also available on the Outer Banks Sasquatch), a 1-inch lifted suspension for improved ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and more robust shocks. Testing indicates that the Badlands Sasquatch tackles trails with competence, but the more aggressive tires increase road noise. It is certainly more capable than the average in its segment, but don’t expect the performance of a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – they are different beasts, after all.
Essential Off-Road Features
- Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Terrain Modes (G.O.A.T. Modes)
- Good ground clearance
- All-Terrain Tires (Badlands/Sasquatch)
- Enhanced Suspension (Badlands/Sasquatch)
- Skid Plates
- Towing Hooks (Sasquatch)
Acceleration varies significantly. The 1.5L model (tested in the Outer Banks version) took 8.2 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph (about 96 km/h). In contrast, the Badlands with the 2.0L engine achieved the same in an impressive 5.9 seconds. A noticeable difference for performance enthusiasts.
Interior: Adventurous Practicality with Some “Buts”
Inside, the Bronco Sport impresses with its attractive and functional design. Despite having a wheelbase smaller than the Escape, the elevated driving position and the taller rear ceiling provide decent head and legroom even in the back seat—though rivals like the Honda CR-V and VW Tiguan still offer more space back there.
The trunk shines with versatility: it has enough room for two mountain bikes (according to Ford, always a good thing to verify!), can come with a sliding table, a 400W outlet, and LED lights in the tailgate. Oh, and it even has an integrated bottle opener! The Badlands version features a washable rubberized floor and easy-to-clean seats, perfect for those planning to get dirty. The downside? According to some reviews, the floor material looks a bit too… basic. There is an under-seat storage space that adds practicality.
Notable Interior Features of the Bronco Sport
| Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| 13.2″ Touchscreen Sync 4 | Standard (All) |
| 12.3″ Digital Cluster | Standard (All) |
| Washable Rubber Floor | Badlands |
| Bottle Opener | Standard (All) |
| Sliding Table (Cargo) | Optional |
Technology and Connectivity: A Leap into the Future?
If there’s one area that has improved significantly, it’s the onboard technology. The new 13.2-inch central screen running Sync 4 is a major highlight. It offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrated navigation, and SiriusXM radio (availability may vary by region).
The fully digital 12.3-inch instrument panel is also a welcome upgrade, adding modernity to the cabin. The standard sound system consists of six speakers, but the Outer Banks and Badlands trims can be equipped with a premium B&O system featuring ten speakers. The lingering question is: does that big screen actually improve usability, or is it just… bigger? And is Sync 4 as fluid as it claims to be?
In terms of safety, the 2025 Bronco Sport has also made strides. Now standard features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and the most important new addition, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go. Front collision warning and automatic emergency braking were already standard.
Pricing and Trims: Which Bronco Sport Should You Take Home?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is not exactly a bargain, starting at $31,590 for the Big Bend trim and reaching up to $41,710 for the Badlands (prices in the U.S.; may vary significantly in other markets). The mid-range trims such as Free Wheeling, Heritage Edition, and Outer Banks offer different styling and equipment packages.
Ford (and many reviews) highlight the Badlands as the most desirable due to its superior off-road capabilities and more powerful engine. However, it is also the most expensive. It’s crucial to evaluate whether the extra cost justifies your type of usage. Perhaps a Big Bend or Outer Banks would already deliver the adventure and style you’re looking for, offering better value for your dollar. The choice ultimately depends on your budget and how often you plan to tackle rugged terrain.
Estimated Price Range (U.S.) by Trim
- Big Bend: starting at $31,590
- Free Wheeling: starting at $34,730
- Heritage Edition: starting at $34,990
- Outer Banks: starting at $36,890
- Badlands: starting at $41,710
Fuel Economy and Efficiency: Friend to Your Wallet on Adventures?
Despite its robust build and all-wheel drive, the Bronco Sport tries to balance its thirst for adventure with trips to the gas station. The 1.5L three-cylinder turbo engine has official (EPA) ratings of 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway (approximately 10.6 km/l and 12.7 km/l, respectively).
On the other hand, the more powerful 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine naturally consumes a bit more: 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway (around 8.9 km/l and 11.5 km/l). A real-world road test (at 75 mph) with the 1.5L recorded an impressive 33 mpg (approximately 14 km/l). These are decent numbers for an SUV with such capabilities, but rivals focused purely on asphalt may be more economical.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2025 Bronco Sport
- Is the 2025 Bronco Sport good for off-roading?
Yes, especially in the Badlands or with the Sasquatch package, it offers above-average capability for a compact SUV, thanks to its AWD, terrain modes, and increased ground clearance.
The largest updates include the optional Sasquatch package (off-road focus), the new 13.2″ multimedia display with Sync 4, the standard 12.3″ digital panel, and more standard driving assists.
For urban use and casual trips, yes. It delivers 180 hp. However, for those seeking more agility or who frequently carry loads, the 2.0L engine with 250 hp (Badlands) is more recommended.
In the U.S., prices start at around $31,590 (Big Bend) and go up to $41,710 (Badlands), excluding options. Prices in other markets may vary.
If you’re looking for a compact SUV with a unique style, good technology, and real off-road capabilities for light adventures, it’s one of the best options. Assess whether the interior space and pricing align with your needs.
So, what do you think of the updates on the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport? Has this adventurous SUV won your heart (and wallet)? Leave a comment below and share your opinion!
