The Ford Bronco Sport continues to define the compact SUV category, delivering an exceptional balance of rugged capability and everyday practicality. As Ford prepares to introduce the upcoming model, let’s examine what changes from the current model year and determine which might better suit your lifestyle and adventure needs.

What Sets the Bronco Sport Apart

The Bronco Sport occupies a unique position in the compact SUV market, offering genuine off-road capability without sacrificing on-road comfort. Whether navigating urban streets or exploring scenic backroads, the Bronco Sport delivers versatile performance with distinctive styling that stands out from competitors that have largely focused on urban-friendly designs.

Exterior Design and Styling Updates

2025 Bronco Sport Exterior

The Bronco Sport features the recognizable boxy silhouette that pays homage to its larger Bronco sibling. With its upright stance, bold grille, and signature round headlights, the current model projects rugged capability from every angle.

Key exterior elements include:

• Distinctive safari-style roof with increased headroom
• Available roof rack with 68 kg capacity
• Bold Bronco badging throughout
• Flip-up rear glass for easy access

2026 Bronco Sport Exterior

The Bronco Sport receives a refreshed front and rear design that maintains its heritage-inspired appearance while introducing modern elements. The updates include:

• Revised front fascia with updated LED lighting
• New exterior colour options, including Orange Fury
• Front fender tie-down points rated up to 68 kg on select trims
• Updated wheel designs across the lineup

The new upcoming model keeps the iconic silhouette while enhancing functionality with features like the new tie-down points that provide additional utility for outdoor adventurers. The styling changes are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, maintaining the distinctive Bronco Sport character while introducing fresh elements that keep the design current.

Performance and Capability

2025 Bronco Sport Performance

The Bronco Sport offers two engine options:

• Standard 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder: 181 horsepower, 257 Nm torque
• Badlands exclusive 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder: 250 horsepower, 375 Nm torque

Both engines pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard 4×4 capability. The Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) allows drivers to adapt to various conditions, with five modes on standard trims and seven on the Badlands.

This model achieves fuel economy ratings of approximately 8.1 L/100km combined for the 1.5L engine and 10.2 L/100km combined for the 2.0L engine.

2026 Bronco Sport Performance

The Bronco Sport maintains the same powertrain options but introduces subtle refinements for improved throttle response and efficiency:

• Revised tuning for the 1.5L EcoBoost delivers smoother torque across the rev range
• Updated 2.0L EcoBoost features revised valve timing for better mid-range power
• Recalibrated 8-speed automatic transmission provides crisper gear engagement
• Improved four-wheel-drive systems engage faster and better manage wheel slip

These refinements enhance both on-road refinement and off-road capability. While horsepower and torque figures remain largely unchanged, the driving experience benefits from these calibration improvements.

Technology and Connectivity

2025 Bronco Sport Technology

This model features:

• 13.2-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A infotainment
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Ford Co-Pilot360 driver assistance features
• Available 10-speaker B&O sound system

2026 Bronco Sport Technology

The Bronco Sport takes a significant step forward in technology:

• Standard 13.2-inch touchscreen with latest SYNC software
• Enhanced driver interface with more intuitive layout for off-road controls
• Improved voice recognition and over-the-air update capability
• Enhanced camera system with rock-crawl view and proximity overlays
• Updated off-road apps for improved trail planning and navigation

The technology upgrades focus on enhancing both everyday usability and off-road capability, with more intuitive controls and improved connectivity features.

Interior Comfort and Versatility

2025 Bronco Sport Interior

The current model offers a practical and adventure-ready interior with:

• Washable rubber flooring in select trims
• Up to 2,486 litres of cargo space with rear seats folded
• MOLLE strap system for attaching gear
• Flip-up rear glass for easy loading of smaller items
• Available leather-trimmed heated seats

2026 Bronco Sport Interior

This model builds on these strengths with:

• Reworked driver interface, placing off-road controls within easier reach
• New seat materials with stain-resistant treatments and increased cushioning
• Improved sound insulation for reduced wind and road noise
• Refined interior materials for a more premium feel
• Enhanced cargo management system

The interior updates focus on creating a more comfortable and refined cabin while maintaining the rugged, adventure-ready character that defines the Bronco Sport.

Trim Levels and Packages

2025 Bronco Sport Trim Structure

This Bronco Sport offers five distinct trims:

• Big Bend: Emphasizes practicality with essential features
• Heritage: Features vintage-inspired styling elements
• Free Wheeling: Offers distinctive styling and capability
• Outer Banks: Focuses on premium features and comfort
• Badlands: Delivers maximum off-road capability

2026 Bronco Sport Trim Structure

This model maintains a similar trim structure but introduces changes to packages and features:

• The Sasquatch Package becomes more customizable, with previously standard items now available as options
• New front fender tie-down points on Big Bend Black Diamond, Outer Banks Sasquatch, Badlands, and Badlands Sasquatch trims
• Some features, like universal garage door opener and wireless charging pad, may be repositioned in the lineup
• The brush guard becomes optional rather than standard on the Sasquatch Package

These changes reflect the Ford strategy of allowing buyers more flexibility to customize their Bronco Sport to their specific needs rather than bundling all features together.

Off-Road Capability Comparison

2025 Bronco Sport Off-Road Features

This model establishes itself as a capable off-roader with:

• Standard 4×4 across all trims
• Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. Modes
• 224 mm ground clearance on Badlands trim
• Available Trail Control for off-road cruise control
• Advanced 4×4 with twin-clutch rear-drive unit on Badlands

2026 Bronco Sport Off-Road Enhancements

Off-road capability sees targeted improvements:

• Updated Bilstein shocks with revised valving for better trail impact absorption
• More intuitive front and rear locker activation
• Enhanced “Trail Turn Assist” system for reduced steering effort
• Optional 63.5 mm lift for increased ground clearance
• Improved camera system with enhanced visibility for obstacle navigation

These enhancements focus on making the Bronco Sport even more capable in challenging off-road situations, while also improving its everyday ride quality.

Safety and Driver Assistance

2025 Bronco Sport Safety

The current model comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, including:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps
• Rear View Camera

2026 Bronco Sport Safety

This model builds on this foundation with:

• Standard Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite with expanded features
• Enhanced driver assistance systems integration with off-road modes
• Improved camera systems for better visibility in various situations
• Updated driver interface for easier access to safety features

These updates ensure the Bronco Sport remains at the forefront of safety technology while adapting these systems to work effectively both on and off the road.

Make Your Decision: 2025 vs. 2026

Reasons to Choose the 2025 Model

This Bronco Sport represents an excellent value proposition with:

• Proven reliability and performance
• Comprehensive feature set with no downgrades
• Immediate availability
• Potential for better deals as the upcoming model approaches

If features like the universal garage door opener and wireless charging pad are important to you, this model includes these as standard on certain trims.

Reasons to Wait for the 2026 Model

The Bronco Sport offers compelling advantages:

• Refreshed exterior styling with new colour options
• Enhanced technology with improved user interface
• Additional utility features like tie-down points
• Refined suspension tuning for better on and off-road performance
• Improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin

If you prioritize the latest technology and styling updates, the newer model delivers notable improvements in these areas.

The Final Verdict

The Ford Bronco Sport continues to define the compact SUV category, combining cutting-edge technology, versatile performance, and refined design. Both model years offer compelling packages for drivers seeking a vehicle that transitions seamlessly from daily commuting to weekend adventures.

The current model provides a proven platform with a comprehensive feature set, while the upcoming model introduces refinements that enhance the overall ownership experience. Your choice ultimately depends on which specific features matter most to your driving needs and lifestyle.

Whether navigating urban streets or exploring backcountry trails, the Bronco Sport delivers capable performance with distinctive styling that stands apart from more conventional compact SUVs. With either model year, you’ll enjoy a versatile vehicle that’s ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.