The Bronco Sport is one of the most versatile funhavers in the segment, with its small size making for a happy middle ground between efficiency and off-road excellence. In this review of the 2026 Bronco Sport vs 2025, we'll be going over all of the latest anticipated Ford Bronco Sport updates as we explore what this compact AWD SUV has in this Bronco Sport feature expose.
Key Takeaways:
- 2026 introduces incremental updates to infotainment and driver-assistance features.
- Standard AWD and engine options remain unchanged between model years.
- Differences mainly affect trim packaging and standard equipment availability.
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport is now on sale with a starting price of approximately $31,845 for the base Big Bend trim, excluding destination charges, and climbs to over $42,000 for higher-end models like the Badlands. Positioned as a compact SUV with strong off-road capability, the Bronco Sport lineup includes trims such as Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks, and Badlands, each offering a mix of rugged styling and modern technology. All models come standard with 4x4 and an 8-speed automatic transmission, along with a 13.2-inch center display featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, reinforcing its focus on connectivity and everyday usability.
Key performance details for the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport include a standard 1.5L EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower on most trims, while the Badlands model upgrades to a more powerful 2.0L 4-cylinder engine for enhanced capability.
Pricing varies depending on trim and equipment, with the Big Bend ranging from about $31,845 to $33,840, the Heritage from $33,395 to $36,140, the Outer Banks from $35,145 to $38,940, and the Badlands from $38,265 to $42,260. Buyers should also factor in an additional destination and delivery charge of roughly $1,995, with final pricing subject to dealer inventory, options, and location.
What are the different trim levels of the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport lineup offers five distinct trim levels: Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, Outer Banks, and Badlands, each designed to meet a range of driving needs from everyday commuting to serious off-road use. The Big Bend serves as the entry point with standard 4x4, a 1.5L EcoBoost engine, and core technology, including a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Ford Co-Pilot360.
Building on this foundation, the Heritage and Free Wheeling trims introduce retro-inspired styling, with the Free Wheeling model adding unique graphics, painted roofs, and vintage-style wheels for a more expressive look. The Outer Banks trim shifts focus toward comfort and refinement, offering features such as leather-trimmed seating, dual-zone climate control, and a premium sound system.
Key differences across the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport trims center on performance and off-road capability. Most models are powered by a 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine producing around 180 horsepower, while the Badlands trim upgrades to a more powerful 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine delivering approximately 250 horsepower.
The Badlands also stands out with advanced off-road hardware, including a twin-clutch rear differential, underbody skid plates, and all-terrain tires, along with additional G.O.A.T. modes such as Rock Crawl and Baja. Lower trims feature five G.O.A.T. modes, but the Badlands expands capability for more demanding terrain, making it the most capable option in the Bronco Sport lineup.
2026 Ford Bronco Sport vs 2025 Ford Bronco Sport: Compact SUV Comparison
| Feature |
2026 Ford Bronco Sport |
2025 Ford Bronco Sport |
| Starting Price |
Starts around $31,845 (Big Bend) |
Not specified |
| Engine Options |
1.5L EcoBoost (181 hp) / 2.0L 4-cylinder (Badlands) |
1.5L EcoBoost (~180 hp) / 2.0L (~250 hp Badlands) |
| Drivetrain & Capability |
Standard 4x4 across all trims with strong off-road capability |
Standard 4x4 with advanced off-road hardware on Badlands |
| Technology Features |
13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto |
13.2-inch touchscreen with Ford Co-Pilot360 |
| Trim Lineup |
Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks, Badlands |
Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, Outer Banks, Badlands |
| Off-Road Features |
G.O.A.T. modes and rugged capability across trims |
Expanded G.O.A.T. modes and twin-clutch rear diff on Badlands |
| Overall Updates |
Minor updates to tech, packaging, and feature availability |
Wider trim variety with strong off-road-focused Badlands model |
Should I Buy a 2026 Ford Bronco Sport or a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport?
Both model years have something to love, with each model having its own reasons for being chosen. At Alan Jay Ford Wauchula, we have a generous selection of the Ford Bronco Sport in both its 2026 and 2025 iterations, and what better way to see the difference between these two models than seeing them in person yourself? If you're really interested in getting up close and personal with the Ford Bronco Sport, regardless of model year, Alan Jay Ford Wauchula's doors are wide open. You can be sure you will see transparent pricing and no hidden fees!