Dodge
Hornet
Ford
Bronco Sport
Dodge Hornet vs Ford Bronco Sport: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Dodge Hornet comes out ahead of the Ford Bronco Sport on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Hornet
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment, characterized by widespread criticism of its initial pricing, perceived poor quality and reliability, and its identity as a badge-engineered vehicle. The vehicle is described as a significant market flop, with very frequent mentions of deep dealer discounts (e.g., new models selling for under $25,000 versus a $43,500+ MSRP) being necessary to generate any interest. Positive remarks are isolated and focus on its acceleration, standard all-wheel drive, and feature content when heavily discounted.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available. No specific trim level receives consistent praise or recommendation.
Known issues
- ⚠Severe electrical/system failures causing a no-start condition: dashboard lights cycle through numerous error messages, vehicle fails to turn over, often related to faulty batteries, corroded wiring, or water intrusion into modules.
- ⚠Software glitches and warning light cascades: system malfunctions trigger unrelated warning lights (e.g., parking brake, collision assist) during normal operation or simple tests. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Poor build quality and component failures: plastic door latches that fail in cold weather, loose door handles, and general concerns about subpar materials and assembly. Frequency: recurrent.
Bronco Sport
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between appreciation for its capability, styling, and daily practicality, and significant concerns regarding long-term reliability and specific powertrain components. The vehicle is frequently praised for its competent all-wheel-drive system, good ground clearance, and unique, rugged styling that appeals to buyers seeking a more adventurous image than a typical compact crossover. It is considered a capable vehicle for light off-roading, forestry roads, and winter conditions, especially in higher Badlands trim.
Best version to buy
Badlands trim: This is the overwhelmingly recommended version. Owners consistently advise selecting the Badlands trim specifically for its more powerful and preferred 2.0L 4-cylinder engine and the more advanced all-wheel-drive system with a torque-vectoring rear drive unit and a rear differential lock.
Known issues
- ⚠Water pump failure: Premature failure, often cited as a common issue, leading to coolant leaks and loss of heating. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Rear suspension component failure: Shock absorbers or other rear suspension parts leaking or failing prematurely, sometimes requiring multiple replacements. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠Transfer case / drivetrain failures: Reports of transfer case and rear differential failures requiring very expensive repairs (cited at ~$5,000 USD). Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Dodge Hornet is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ford Bronco Sport, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ford Bronco Sport is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Dodge Hornet or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Dodge Hornet and the Ford Bronco Sport. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Dodge Hornet or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Dodge Hornet is classed as a CUV, the Ford Bronco Sport as a SUV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Dodge Hornet or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Dodge Hornet or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Ford Bronco Sport than the Dodge Hornet. See the known issues comparison above.