By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(September 2, 2021) Bronco’s history is a long one, dating to 1966 when it started as a small, compact, yet rugged off-roader. It eventually grew to a full-size behemoth in the ’80s and ’90s. With a minimal, utilitarian application, those early Broncos have a tremendous appeal today, to both older buyers with fond memories and younger buyers who appreciate the coolness factor.
           
After a 25-year hiatus, Ford Bronco is back with a two-pronged approach that first sees the arrival of the compact Bronco Sport tested here, and the larger Bronco arriving just now at Ford dealers.

On sale since late last year, Ford says the Bronco Sport is no pretender and the most rugged ready adventure crossover SUV on the market today. Four-wheel drive is standard on all five Bronco Sport trim levels, with 7.4 inches of ground clearance up front and 8.1 inches at the rear. Trim levels include Big Bend, Outer Banks and Badlands in addition to a base and First Edition model. No, it won’t handle the Rubicon Trail or Arizona’s Woodpecker Mine Trail — that’s reserved for the bigger Bronco — but it does have greater than expected off-road capability.

We tested the Big Bend trim and found it drove well with nimble handling, but the ride is on the firm side, most noticeably on rough or unpaved roads. The seating position is high, affording a commanding view of the attractive hood bulges and whatever’s ahead. Our Bronco Sport was powered by a 181-horsepower 1.5-turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivered ample mid-range performance. Overall, the power is just fine for everyday use.

The interior has a simple, yet functional, rugged look but with an overabundance of hard plastic finishes. Cloth upholstery and manually adjustable front seats are standard and roomy with good leg, head and shoulder space. The back seat is snug and cargo space average for the class.

An 8-inch touch screen operates Ford’s SYNC3 infotainment with simple and easy-to-use menus. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. There are knobs and buttons for climate control and other functions. Additional features include remote keyless entry, a manual rear liftgate with floodlights and a built-in bottle opener.

Standard active safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.

Overall, it has its flaws but it’s everything Ford said it will be and more. It’s sufficient for most drivers’ weekend adventures, and a fun to drive for commuting during the week.

Vital Stats
Base Price: $28,720
Price as Tested: $33,350
Engine/Transmission: 181-hp 1.5-liter 3-cylinder engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive
EPA Fuel Economy: 25/28/26 MPG – City/Highway/Combined
Seating: Five

Crash Test Safety Ratings: Overall five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and highest possible 2021 Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Where Built: Hermosillo, Mexico

Competes With:
Jeep Cherokee
Jeep Compass
Jeep Wrangler
Subaru Forester

Fab Features:
Genuine off-road credentials
Easy to use tech and safety features
“Adventurous” styling themes