2021 Ford Bronco Sport is More Than a Big-wheel Escape

Published on July 13, 2020 in News by Frédéric Mercier

The new Ford Bronco unveiled on Monday was arguably the most anticipated debut of the year. And the automaker doubled down on the fun with the introduction of the 2021 Bronco Sport.

Except for the same first name and design language, these two vehicles have little in common, mind you.

While the Bronco is a true four-wheeler that shares its T6 chassis with the Ranger midsize pickup, the Bronco Sport is a smaller, more urban-oriented SUV riding on the same C2 platform as the Escape.

Technically, the 2021 Bronco Sport has more similarities with the Escape than it does with its big brother. Make no mistake, though: it displays plenty of attitude and toughness. Consider this versatile model as an alternative to the Jeep Cherokee.

The Outdoors in Mind

The Ford Bronco Sport is similar to the regular Bronco in that they’re both aimed at outdoor enthusiasts. There’s a host of unique features and amenities designed for these people, such as straps to hang a backpack or other gear and storage pockets with zippers on the back of the seats to maximize cargo.

Speaking of which, the tall roofline makes it possible to haul a bunch of stuff, even large items like a pair of mountain bikes with 27.5-inch wheels—vertically. Custom bike racks are also available.

Customization actually is one of the strengths of the Bronco Sport according to Ford, with over 100 optional accessories to choose from. The rear quarters can be turned into a small office table or kitchen counter in a flash, which is another thing that outdoor lovers will surely appreciate. Ditto for the 400W converter or the liftgate-mounted projectors.

Four Trim Levels, Two Engines

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport comes in four trim levels with pricing as follows:

Base - $32,199
Big Bend - $34,199
Outer Banks - $37,699
Badlands - $40,199

All of them have standard all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The first three use a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, while the Badlands gets a 2.0-litre version rated at 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque.

Another thing that sets the top-line Bronco Sport apart is enhanced off-road capability courtesy of a raised suspension and Bronco-derived G.O.A.T. drive mode selector (the acronym stands for “Goes Over Any Type of Terrain”). It’s like the Ford equivalent of the Cherokee Trailhawk.

As for towing, the Bronco Sport’s maximum rating is 2,000 pounds with the 1.5-litre turbo and 2,200 pounds with the 2.0-litre turbo.

Look for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport to arrive in Canadian dealerships by the end of this year (whereas the Bronco will wait until next spring). You can order a copy by making a $100 deposit on the Ford Canada website.