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Home > 2025 Vehicles > 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Review (Plus Videos): More Rugged, More Refined, and Still Full of Character on Everyman Driver

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Review (Plus Videos): More Rugged, More Refined, and Still Full of Character on Everyman Driver

For 2025, the Ford Bronco Sport levels up with smarter tech, enhanced safety features, and a new Sasquatch package that brings it even closer in spirit to its big sibling, the full-size Ford Bronco. It’s still the off-road rebel of the compact crossover segment, and now it’s got even more gear to prove it.

Debuting in 2021, the Bronco Sport immediately stood out with its upright, boxy design and genuine off-road capability—a clear play for the same adventure-seeking crowd that shops Subaru and Jeep. Based on the same platform as the Ford Escape, the Bronco Sport distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and multiple drive modes tuned for off-road terrain.

It’s not perfect—its base engine lacks punch, and on-road comfort isn’t class-leading—but the 2025 updates breathe new life into a model that was already a standout for buyers who value character and versatility over pure refinement.

What’s New for 2025: The 2025 Bronco Sport gains several key upgrades across the lineup:

  • All-new Sasquatch package (available on Badlands) adds steel bumpers, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and upgraded suspension
  • Larger infotainment and digital displays across all trims
  • Sync 4 operating system replaces Sync 3, offering faster performance and sharper graphics
  • Expanded suite of standard safety and driver-assist features under Co-Pilot360 Assist+

Trims and Pricing: The 2025 Bronco Sport is offered in five trims:

  • Big Bend – $31,590
  • Heritage – $34,730
  • Free Wheeling – $34,730
  • Outer Banks – $36,580
  • Badlands – $41,590

All-wheel drive is standard on every trim.

Big Bend models come well-equipped with LED lighting, roof rails, terrain management modes, and a new 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Heritage adds a retro flair with white accents and plaid seat inserts. The Free Wheeling trim doubles down on vintage styling with ‘70s-inspired graphics and interior color pops.

The Outer Banks trim is geared toward comfort with heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and ambient lighting. But for true off-road capability, the Badlands trim is the clear winner. It comes with the stronger 2.0-liter turbo engine, a more advanced 4×4 system, upgraded suspension, and optional Sasquatch package for those who want even more off-pavement prowess.

Engine and Performance:  The Bronco Sport comes with two turbocharged engine options:

  • 1.5-liter 3-cylinder (standard): 180 hp, 200 lb-ft of torque
  • 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (Badlands only): 238 hp, 277 lb-ft of torque

The base engine offers sufficient power for commuting and light off-roading. But if you plan to explore serious trails or need stronger acceleration, the 2.0-liter is the better pick. It hits 0-60 mph in roughly 6 seconds, according to independent testing.

Towing capacity has improved for 2025:

  • 2,200 lbs with the base engine
  • 2,700 lbs with the upgraded 2.0-liter

While the ride can be firm over rough pavement and there’s noticeable wind noise at highway speeds, the Bronco Sport’s off-road readiness and visibility are impressive. Front and rear camera systems help immensely whether rock crawling or parallel parking in the city.

Fuel Economy: While EPA ratings for 2025 are still pending, expect numbers similar to the outgoing model:

  • 1.5-liter engine: ~26 mpg combined
  • 2.0-liter engine: ~23 mpg combined

That trails class leaders like the Subaru Forester (29 mpg) and Mazda CX-50 (28 mpg), but the trade-off is greater off-road ability.

Interior and Cargo Space: Despite its compact exterior, the Bronco Sport makes the most of its cabin space thanks to its tall roofline and smart layout. The interior is rugged yet functional, especially in the Badlands trim, which includes easy-clean surfaces and silicone-sealed switches.

There’s room for five, and even rear passengers get decent legroom and excellent visibility. Cargo space is another strong point:

  • 32.5 cu ft behind the rear seats
  • 65.2 cu ft with the rear seats folded

That outpaces rivals like the Jeep Compass and even the larger Jeep Cherokee. There’s a flip-up rear glass, roof rack, and clever tie-down points throughout the cargo area—plus room for two mountain bikes inside with the seats down.

Technology and Infotainment: The 2025 Bronco Sport upgrades its tech with Ford’s new Sync 4 system, featuring a 13.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and over-the-air update capability. Every trim also comes with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

Outer Banks and Badlands trims are eligible for an available Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, delivering crisp, immersive audio.

Safety and Driver Assistance: The 2025 Bronco Sport earns top safety ratings from NHTSA, with five stars in front and side crash tests. The new model also comes standard with Co-Pilot360 Assist+, adding:

  • Intelligent adaptive cruise control
  • Lane centering
  • Road sign recognition
  • Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
  • Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
  • Lane-keeping assist
  • Driver attention monitoring

The Trail Control system, standard on Badlands, acts like cruise control for off-road conditions.

Bronco Sport vs. the Competition: There’s no shortage of strong options in this segment. The redesigned Subaru Forester brings excellent AWD performance and higher towing capacity. The Mazda CX-50 offers upscale materials and an available turbo engine. The Jeep Compass, while a familiar name, is starting to feel outdated.

But none match the Bronco Sport’s personality, design, and trail-ready capability, especially with the Badlands + Sasquatch combo. It’s the choice for drivers who want a compact SUV that’s not afraid to get dirty—and still looks good doing it.

Verdict: The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport doesn’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, it leans hard into its adventurous identity. With more standard tech, expanded safety features, and the Sasquatch package bringing even more capability to the table, it stands as one of the most exciting small SUVs for drivers who want to go beyond the pavement. For buyers who value rugged utility and bold design, the Bronco Sport remains in a class of its own.

Before heading to the dealership, make sure you’re getting the best possible deal. Visit Quotes.EverymanDriver.com to access real-time pricing on the Bronco Sport—or any new or used car—available from dealerships in your area.

Thousands of shoppers use this free tool every day to find hidden discounts, compare offers, and save hundreds or even thousands of dollars. There are no fees, no pressure—just a smarter way to buy. Start your free search today at Quotes.EverymanDriver.com and see how much you could save.

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