Off-Roading Champion: The Ford Bronco or the Ford Bronco Sport?

If you’re on the hunt for Ohio Bronco dealers, you’re probably just as excited as we are for the new lineup of Ford Broncos coming to the market. But, if you’re like us, you might also be wondering whether you should get the Bronco or the Bronco Sport. Well, that can be a tricky decision to make as both models are amazing and exciting. However, there are some differences between the two that may have you leaning towards one over the other.

Both of these models give design nods to their predecessors, and they are both well equipped for handling adventure on unusual terrain. However, the Bronco is designed to be more of a direct competitor to the Wrangler, with modular doors and roof. Meanwhile, the Bronco Sport is an SUV after the hearts of those who want to take the whole family out for a camping trip at the lake. Let’s take a look at some of the differences between the two models to help you decide which one you’d rather own.

The Standard Bronco

The 2021 Ford Bronco comes in both 2-door and 4-door options with the ability to remove its top and doors. The 2-door variant seats 4 people, and the 4-door version seats up to 5. This truck-based SUV has a max towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, and it comes with a 10-speed automatic or 7-speed manual transmission. You can get either a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that produces up to 270 horsepower or a 2.7-liter V6 that produces up to 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque.

If you’re looking for the most powerful engine of all the Broncos, the V6 is the engine for you. It has the most powerful specs, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and is arguably one of the best-equipped engines for handling heavy off-roading. That extra torque from the V6 engine helps when heading up steep inclines or over uneven terrain. It also includes options for a floor drain, which is useful for those who like to utilize the mudding and water fording capacity. This model is made specifically for heading into the wilderness.

The Standard Bronco’s Trims

The standard Bronco comes in 7 different trims, but only 6 are currently available. The First Edition trim has unfortunately already filled its available reservations. The regular Bronco trims are categorized by their off-roading capabilities.

The Base Bronco is called “The Essential Bronco,” and it offers the most basic assets. It can do all of the basics with the essentials, but this makes it the best candidate for those who like to upgrade and personalize their vehicle. The Big Bend trim is labeled for “Mainstream Off-Roading.” Essentially, it’s ideal if you plan on fooling around with its off-the-pavement capabilities but also want the comforts you expect in a vehicle you drive a lot. The Black Diamond trim is for “Adventure Off-Roading,” which is why it includes a heavy-duty modular front bumper and upgraded bash plates to protect from rock damage.

Now we’ve got the Outer Banks trim for those who care about both off-roading AND aesthetic appeal. This trim offers body-colored fender flares, tube step running boards, and 18-inch high gloss painted wheels. Its 12-inch LCD touchscreen addition paired with a B&O sound system makes it both user-friendly and visually appealing. Next up, we’ve got the Badlands model, which is designed for extreme off-roading. This trim is for people who don’t take trailing lightly. This trim adds on 4×4 automatic on-demand engagement, which includes extra drive modes that can help increase torque and make rocky or slick areas easier to cross. It also includes a stabilizer bar and locking front and rear axles. These aid in maneuverability and traction.

Finally, the trail master Wildtrak trim is the best option for thrill-seeking off-roading. The V6 twin-turbocharged engine is standard on this model, and the exterior is accented with black wheels, grille, and unique badging. Opt for the impressive Sasquatch Package to include massive 35-inch tires on 17-inch wheels and get high-clearance suspension for easier rock climbing. Overall, the standard Bronco is an off-roading beast, but each trim offers its own unique setup to tailor your adventures.

The Bronco Sport

The Bronco Sport is a standard 4-door model, and its top and doors are not removable like the standard Bronco’s are. It seats up to 5 passengers, and its max towing capacity is 2,200 pounds. One thing that the Bronco and the Bronco Sport have in common is the G.O.A.T mode feature. This stands for “goes over any type of terrain” and has five drive modes, including Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, and Normal modes as standard options. The Bronco Sport is also 4×4 capable, and its flip-up back glass makes it simple to load despite its fixed top. Both base models include Ford Co-Pilot360, which comes with pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. It also includes a rear-view camera.

The Bronco Sport only comes in 5 available trims for this first run. There’s the Base trim, the Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, and the coveted First Edition. These models are not truck-based frames, but not necessarily sedan-based, either. They’re called “unibody,” which basically means it has a lighter frame and offers better fuel economy, but it’s not as good on the off-roading scene.

They’re more often associated with cars. Further, the Bronco Sport’s suspension makes it ride smoother. Lastly, the Bronco Sport comes with a 3-cylinder and a 4-cylinder engine option, with no V6 availability. Make no mistake, you can definitely bring this model off the beaten path and explore new places, but it also is an excellent option for your everyday commute. Pick your adventure style with available features like a Yakima Skyrise HD tent and Slim Shady awning for camping, a Yakima JayLow kayak holder for water travel, a bike rack and Yakima LoadWarrior cargo basket for bikers, or a flat-top ski and snowboard carrier for snow lovers. The Bronco Sport is a good option for those who typically stay on the blacktop but also like to venture into the wilderness for some away time.

Pricing for the Ford Bronco Versus the Ford Bronco Sport

At first glance, it may seem like there’s not a huge difference between the Base trims for these two models. However, note that you’re getting more tailored rugged off-roading features with the Bronco and a sleeker enclosed SUV with the Bronco Sport. Overall, if you’re aiming for affordability, the Bronco Sport is the cheaper SUV with a base MSRP of $26,820, while the base Bronco starts at an MSRP of $28,500.

There’s A Bronco For Every Intent!

The best part about the Bronco is a trim for every type of off-roader, while the Bronco Sport offers the ability to customize it for any off-road hobby. If you love camping, the Black Diamond Bronco is ideal, along with the Badlands Bronco Sport. You can opt-in for an awning and fold-out camping table with these models. If water is more your forte, the standard Bronco Wildtrak is best, and the Outer Banks Bronco Sport is the vehicle for you. These include roof rack rails for easy kayak transport. For those who enjoy colder climates, consider checking out the Outer Banks standard Bronco and the Big Bend Bronco Sport. These include options for extended cargo and even a snowboard carrier. No matter which Bronco you choose, you’ll be well prepared to go on an adventure.

Why Choose the Ford Bronco Over Other Models?

Ford is the most American-made vehicle in the country. Since the Model T, Ford has produced millions of vehicles, and their innovation has led to the Bronco’s impressive revitalization. After years of hiatus, Ford has had plenty of years to study competitors like the Jeep Wrangler, providing unique features to stand out from the crowd. Thanks to all of its trim options, the Bronco and Bronco Sport can be as off-road capable as you need them to be. Whether you’re ready to take on rocky hills, or you want to cruise down the highway with the top off, there’s a Bronco here for you. If you are ready to reserve your Bronco or Bronco Sport, get in touch with us or utilize our Bronco reservation feature on our website.