Overview
The Ford Bronco Sport enters 2025 with thoughtful refinements that enhance its position as a unique offering in the compact crossover segment. Distinguished from its larger Bronco sibling by its unibody construction, the Bronco Sport continues to blend everyday practicality with legitimate off-road capabilities that surpass most competitors in its class.
For 2025, Ford has refreshed the exterior styling with subtle updates to the grille design, new LED signature lighting elements, and additional color options that pay homage to Bronco heritage. The model’s distinctive boxy silhouette, safari-style roof with increased headroom toward the rear, and short overhangs remain defining characteristics that set it apart from more conventional crossovers.
Ford has expanded the powertrain lineup with the introduction of a new hybrid option that combines a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with an electric motor, addressing demands for improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance. The standard 1.5-liter EcoBoost and optional non-hybrid 2.0-liter EcoBoost engines continue with minor calibration improvements for better responsiveness and efficiency.
The technology suite has been enhanced with Ford’s latest SYNC 4A infotainment system featuring a larger 12-inch touchscreen on higher trims, improved voice recognition, and enhanced off-road features in the FordPass app that allow owners to share and download trail maps and track off-road metrics.
Driving
The driving experience of the 2025 Bronco Sport continues to balance on-road comfort with surprising off-road capability. The standard 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost engine produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for daily driving with responsive low-end torque. The optional 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost increases output to 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, delivering notably quicker acceleration and improved towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds.
The new hybrid powertrain combines the 2.0-liter EcoBoost with an electric motor for a combined output of 275 horsepower while improving fuel economy by approximately 20% over the standard 2.0-liter. The hybrid system is seamlessly integrated, with smooth transitions between power sources and regenerative braking that feels natural and progressive.
All Bronco Sport models feature an 8-speed automatic transmission, with the Badlands and new Raptor-inspired variants adding steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The standard all-wheel-drive system includes Ford’s Terrain Management System with G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes, providing preset configurations for various driving conditions.
The Badlands trim continues to offer the most capable off-road experience with an advanced 4×4 system featuring a twin-clutch rear-drive unit with a differential lock function. Its additional Rock Crawl mode, increased ground clearance (8.8 inches versus 7.8 inches on base models), and enhanced suspension travel make it remarkably capable on technical trails.
On-road manners are composed, with a ride quality that’s firm but not harsh. Body roll is well-controlled for a vehicle with off-road intentions, and the steering offers decent feedback despite being tuned more for versatility than precision. Wind and road noise are reasonably managed, though the boxy shape generates more wind noise at highway speeds compared to more aerodynamic competitors.
The 2025 model year brings improved brake feel across the lineup and a retuned suspension that better manages the transition between smooth pavement and rough terrain. The new Trail Control feature—essentially an off-road cruise control—allows drivers to focus on steering while the vehicle manages throttle and braking at low speeds on challenging surfaces.
Interior
The interior of the 2025 Bronco Sport balances rugged utility with modern comfort and technology. The upright dashboard and substantial grab handles maintain the adventurous aesthetic while improved materials enhance the perception of quality. Higher trim levels now feature more soft-touch surfaces and better sound insulation for a more refined experience.
Seating comfort has been improved with revised cushioning and additional adjustment range for the driver. The elevated seating position provides excellent visibility, with the squared-off hood edges making it easy to place the vehicle precisely on or off the trail. The safari-style roof maintains its class-leading rear-seat headroom, accommodating passengers up to 6’4″ without issue.
Practicality remains a Bronco Sport strength, with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin. The flip-up rear glass provides quick access to the cargo area, and the adjustable cargo management system continues to offer versatility for various gear configurations. Maximum cargo capacity stands at 65.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, competitive for the segment despite the vehicle’s compact exterior dimensions.
The technology integration takes a significant step forward with SYNC 4A, offering improved processing speed and enhanced voice command functionality. The available 12-inch touchscreen (up from 8 inches) provides crisp graphics and intuitive menu layouts. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims, with wireless charging now available even in mid-level models.
The instrument cluster combines analog gauges with a configurable digital display on base models, while higher trims offer a fully digital 12.3-inch display with off-road-specific information pages showing details like pitch, roll, and differential status. The available B&O premium audio system has been recalibrated for better sound quality within the Bronco Sport’s unique cabin acoustics.
For 2025, Ford has improved the washable rubber flooring option and added more water-resistant upholstery choices, reinforcing the vehicle’s ready-for-adventure personality. The standard built-in bottle opener in the cargo area remains a small but telling detail about the lifestyle this vehicle targets.
Buying
The Ford Bronco Sport 2025 continues to be positioned as a premium offering within the compact crossover segment, with pricing that reflects its unique capabilities and features. The model range has expanded to include the new hybrid variants while maintaining the established trim structure of Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Badlands, with several special editions throughout the model year.
The Base model offers strong value with standard all-wheel drive, SYNC 4 infotainment with an 8-inch touchscreen, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features through Ford Co-Pilot360. The Big Bend adds comfort and convenience features, while the Outer Banks focuses on premium appointments including leather seating and enhanced exterior styling.
The Badlands remains the choice for serious off-road enthusiasts, with its advanced 4×4 system, off-road suspension, and additional trail technologies. The new Hybrid powertrain commands approximately a $2,000 premium over comparable non-hybrid models but offers potentially significant fuel savings for those with longer commutes.
Ford’s warranty coverage remains competitive but not exceptional, with 3-year/36,000-mile basic coverage and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain protection. The hybrid components carry an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. Ford’s maintenance costs generally run lower than premium competitors but slightly higher than mainstream alternatives like the Toyota RAV4.
Residual values for the Bronco Sport have proven strong since its introduction, particularly for the Badlands and special edition models. This trend is expected to continue with the 2025 model, especially given the limited production of certain variants and the vehicle’s established cult following.
Financing and lease options through Ford Credit are competitive, with occasional incentives on specific trims as production and demand fluctuate. The dealer network’s familiarity with the model has improved, with many locations now featuring Bronco-certified sales and service staff who better understand the vehicle’s unique features and capabilities.
Specs & Prices
Specifications:
- Engines:
- 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder: 181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft torque
- 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder: 250 horsepower, 277 lb-ft torque
- 2.0L EcoBoost Hybrid: 275 combined horsepower, 310 combined lb-ft torque
- Transmission:
- 8-speed automatic (all models)
- 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters (Badlands and special editions)
- Drivetrain:
- Standard Intelligent 4WD with disconnecting rear driveline
- Advanced 4×4 with twin-clutch rear drive unit (Badlands)
- Fuel Economy:
- 1.5L EcoBoost: 25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 26 mpg combined
- 2.0L EcoBoost: 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- 2.0L EcoBoost Hybrid: 29 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined
- Dimensions:
- Length: 172.7 inches (4,386 mm)
- Width: 74.3 inches (1,887 mm) including mirrors
- Height: 70.2-71.4 inches (1,783-1,814 mm) depending on trim
- Wheelbase: 105.1 inches (2,670 mm)
- Ground clearance: 7.8-8.8 inches (198-224 mm) depending on trim
- Approach angle: 21.7-30.4 degrees depending on trim
- Departure angle: 30.4-33.1 degrees depending on trim
- Breakover angle: 18.2-20.4 degrees depending on trim
- Water fording: 17.7-23.6 inches (450-600 mm) depending on trim
- Cargo Capacity:
- Behind second row: 32.5 cubic feet (920 liters)
- Maximum cargo volume: 65.2 cubic feet (1,846 liters)
- Roof rack capacity: 150 pounds (68 kg)
- Towing Capacity:
- 1.5L EcoBoost: 2,000 pounds (907 kg)
- 2.0L EcoBoost and Hybrid: 2,200 pounds (998 kg)
Pricing (Reference prices for US market):
- Bronco Sport Base 1.5L: $32,495
- Bronco Sport Big Bend 1.5L: $35,155
- Bronco Sport Outer Banks 1.5L: $39,195
- Bronco Sport Outer Banks 2.0L: $41,195
- Bronco Sport Outer Banks Hybrid: $43,195
- Bronco Sport Badlands 2.0L: $41,995
- Bronco Sport Badlands Hybrid: $43,995
- Bronco Sport Heritage Edition (Big Bend based): $37,995
- Bronco Sport Heritage Limited Edition (Badlands based): $46,995
Key optional packages:
- Convenience Package (Base and Big Bend): $1,495
- Tech Package (Outer Banks and Badlands): $1,895
- Premium Package (Outer Banks and Badlands): $2,595
- Off-Road Assistance Package (Badlands): $795
- Class II Trailer Tow Package: $495
- Cargo Management System: $395
Note: Prices may vary by region and dealer policies. Destination and delivery charge of $1,495 not included in listed prices.
