Although there are a fair number of small SUV options on the market, there hasn’t been anything new or noteworthy for years. Even reliable options like Jeep have been receiving lackluster reviews. The small SUV class has long been needing a vehicle to swoop in and liven things up — and it looks like the Ford Bronco Sport is the perfect SUV for the job. Built on the same platform as the Ford Escape, the Ford Bronco seems destined to impress. Here’s what CarFax reviewers have to say.

What makes the Ford Bronco Sport stand out?

Although it may have the same name as the larger Ford Bronco, the Ford Bronco Sport is, well, sportier. It seats five, and it manages to combine the rugged stability of a standard SUV with the smaller size and everyday maneuverability you’d expect from the sport version. CarFax notes that the Bronco Sport is an overall well-rounded vehicle, balancing “ride comfort, cabin space, fuel economy, and adventure-seeking image.”

While some other SUVs sacrifice everyday conveniences in favor of more powerful off-roading capabilities, its combination of comfort and compact maneuverability makes the Bronco Sport an excellent daily driver. It also features a whole host of charming interior details that make it stand apart from the competition. You’ll find zippered pouches on the backs of the front seats, LED flood lights, an integrated sliding work table, and even a built-in bottle opener located in the trunk.

Following in the Ford Escape’s footsteps

If you think the Ford Bronco Sport looks a little familiar, you’ve got a good eye. It shares a platform with the Ford Escape, and both vehicles offer the same powertrains. This bodes well for the Bronco Sport — the Escape has been getting rave reviews, even ranking in the top third on the U.S. News list of Best Compact SUVs for 2020.

While they do share very similar mechanics, the Bronco Sport actually boasts a few features that the Escape does not. It is immensely versatile, offering up to seven different drive modes. This means that the Bronco Sport is easy to drive in a wide array of different conditions. 

Additionally, all trim levels of the Bronco Sport come with standard four-wheel drive. And while the Escape has decent off-road equipment, CarFax reports that the Bronco Sport’s is better. It includes heavy-duty suspension components, superior approach and departure angles, and a 4×4 twin-clutch rear drive unit.

What you’ll get with your Ford Bronco Sport

Related: What’s the Difference Between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Escape?

The Ford Bronco Sport has a starting price of approximately $28,155, and it’s available in five different trims. The standard engine is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder that gets 181 hp. CarFax notes that this engine is “fine for in-town driving.” However, if you want a bit more power, you can upgrade to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which offers 240 hp.

The Ford Bronco Sport comes with a sizable collection of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot warning. All trims also include an 8-inch touchscreen, a safari-style roof, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

With so many standard features, CarFax reports that many buyers will likely be more than satisfied with the base model. However, if you want a more powerful engine or more equipment specifically designed for off-roading, you might choose to upgrade to a higher trim.

Overall, the Ford Bronco Sport is an exciting new addition to the small SUV class. With its plethora of standard features, its unique interior details, and its balance of comfort and power, the Bronco Sport will appeal to anyone who wants a slightly more adventurous version of the Escape.