Ford’s onslaught on the Jeep brand means not only a Wrangler competitor but a slightly smaller front-drive that catches the spirit and vibe of the full-size Bronco. We’re talking about the Bronco Sport. Ford has a lot on its plate developing, marketing, and finally debuting two completely unique platforms in a single night. While we’ve covered the 2021 Bronco we’ll dive into the Sport crossover including specs and more.

There’s no mistaking this as a Bronco, but it’s a completely new and different Bronco. Ford was serious about expanding the Bronco G.O.A.T. “goes over any type of terrain” capabilities and features to the Sport. So things like ground clearance, approach and departure angles, fording capabilities, and Ford’s trail technologies make this class-leading. 

You know it’s a Bronco because of the wide-body and short overhangs

Four-wheel-drive is standard across the Sport line. You know it’s a Bronco because of the wide-body, short overhangs, and variations of both the original 1966 and 2021 Broncos. To that Ford added a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine with twin-clutch rear drive unit and differential lock feature. Similar to a traditional mechanical locking diff, it can divert rear axle torque to either wheel. 

For base models, the 1.5-liter EcoBoost produces 181 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque. It’s standard in the Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks models. Either engine is backed by an 8-speed automatic with higher models getting the SelectShift paddle shifters. 2.0-liter models get additional transmission and rear-drive coolers.

The Sport incorporates seven different modes in the Ford Terrain Management System

As with the larger Bronco, the Sport incorporates seven different modes in the Ford Terrain Management System. They include Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery and Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. This unique system is available on both the Badlands and First Edition models. 

Both the front and rear suspensions are independent to give both highway and off-road assuredness. With the Badlands and First Edition models tuned front struts with hydraulic rebound stops take up the jolts. The rear monotube shocks smooth out the ride in rough terrain while antiroll bars help both articulation and handling. Ford’s Trail Control technology allows a cruise control-like setting for speeds under 20 mph for off-road control navigating what’s ahead.

Ford has approved over 100 aftermarket accessories for the Bronco Sport

First Edition versions get the 29-inch tall all-terrain off-road tires while the Badlands comes with 28.5-inch all-terrain tires. An off-road camera with lens washer lets you see ahead as if you had a spotter. The video is displayed on the center-stack touch screen. The cargo area can handle two standing 27.5-inch-wheel mountain bikes with the optional Yakima bike rack accessory. And speaking of accessories, Ford has approved over 100 aftermarket accessories for the Bronco Sport. Between Ford’s offerings and the available aftermarket components, no two Broncos should ever look alike.

The Bronco Sport’s roof can accommodate roof-tent camping. There’s a slide-out table as part of the Cargo Management System. A 400-watt inverter and liftgate floodlamps are still more trick features not found on other crossovers in this class. An 8-inch touchscreen, advanced driver-assist technology with a long list of features, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it all adds up to a Bronco packed with fun and function. 

We’ve only skimmed the surface to give you a broad overview of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. Over the next few days, the crack Motor Biscuit team will zero in on comparisons, drill down on features, and bring you more than you can imagine. This week we’re all Bronco all of the time, so check back to find out more.