Gone for a couple of decades, the Ford Bronco is making a comeback. For 2021, there are two choices: The full off-road Ford Bronco SUV, which is a Jeep fighter, and now the Bronco Sport, which gives you the style but is ideally suited for the daily grind with some dirt roads thrown in.
A quick peek at the Bronco Sport and you instantly know that this is one tough and rugged looking little SUV. This new small Ute is based off the Ford Escape — but it’s hard to tell. While the Escape is curvy and sleek, the Bronco Sport looks ready to tackle the trail. A boxy body with increased ground clearance and underbody bash plates add to the rugged utility of this off-roader that supports a friendly, compact ride. While most small crossovers and SUVs blend in to their surroundings, I quickly experienced interest from other drivers who flashed thumbs-up or stopped to question me about the Bronco. It seems like Ford nailed this look.
The Bronco Sport Badlands I drove comes with a punchy 2.0L turbo engine that moves this small SUV with plenty of authority. The eight-speed automatic does the job to get the best MPG by quickly shifting to the highest gear. Because of that, you need to mash the gas to get into the power when needed. Even as the more off-road capable version of the Bronco Sport models, the Badlands still treats you to a road-friendly ride. There is some tire noise from the aggressive all-terrain tires. But that’s why you drive it, right?
Inside the Bronco Sport is a roomy small Ute with headroom thanks to the rough and tough exterior styling. There is a lot of influence from the Ford Escape in the interior so everything is easy and straightforward. This Badlands First Edition comes with special Navy blue leather-trimmed seats that offer a nice splash of color in the cabin.
Cost: $38,160; as tested $ 39,655
MPG: 21 City; 26 Highway. I managed 25.9 in 217 miles of mixed driving
Safety: Ford Co-Pilot360; adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go; SOS post-crash alert system; blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert; pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking; lane keeping assist; auto high-beam headlamps; rear view camera with washer
Things to know: The new Bronco Sport gives you the look of the Bronco, but this version is a more road-friendly small SUV. Still, this little SUV based on the Ford Escape can actually tackle some off-roading.
Pros:
- The Bronco Sport’s looks will impress with a rugged style
- A compact SUV that actually tackles some off-roading
- You can customize the Bronco Sport with things like a roof tent
Cons:
- The infotainment system is a bit slow to respond
- Some extra noise is made from the all-terrain tires
