Ford
Bronco
Ford
Bronco Sport
Ford Bronco vs Ford Bronco Sport: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Ford Bronco 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
Bronco
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and highly dependent on the specific generation and model discussed. For the modern sixth-generation (2021+) Bronco, owner feedback is polarized. Many express strong enthusiasm for its unique character, off-road capability, convertible nature, and cool factor.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a single "best" trim. The Badlands trim is mentioned favorably for its off-road hardware.
Known issues
- ⚠Quality control / reliability concerns: Reports of various issues including bad clock springs, leaking shocks, axle breather tube seepage, hood latch failures, non-working signal lights, and persistent interior rattles.
- ⚠Hard top problems: Concerns about longevity and issues with early production hard tops (2021-2022), cited as a COVID-era supply chain problem. Frequency: isolated.
- ⚠Engine and fuel pump issues: A batch of 2021-2022 models had problems; stated to have been identified and resolved. Frequency: isolated.
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 Ford Bronco 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 Ford Bronco or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Ford Bronco and the Ford Bronco Sport. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Ford Bronco or the Ford Bronco Sport?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Ford Bronco is classed as a Off-road vehicle, the Ford Bronco Sport as a SUV, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Ford Bronco 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 Ford Bronco 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 Ford Bronco. See the known issues comparison above.