Let’s get one thing straight—the Ford Bronco Sport isn’t a real Bronco. It’s based on the Ford Escape, not a body-on-frame legend. But for 2025, Ford’s tossing in some upgrades to make this little off-roader almost convincing.
Is it a Jeep killer? Nah.
Is it the coolest small SUV for under $35K? Maybe.
Let’s break it down.
What’s New for 2025? (Spoiler: Just Enough to Stay Relevant)
- Exterior: Still a Mini-Me Bronco
- New grille design (because Ford loves messing with grilles).
- Updated LED lights—standard across all trims (take notes, base-model Wrangler).
- Fresh colors: Heritage Blue (a throwback to the ’60s) and Sandstone Metallic (for pretending you’re in Moab).
- Black-package option—because murdered-out never gets old.
- Interior: Less Rental Car, More Adventure Mobile
- New 12-inch touchscreen (finally ditching the old 8-inch).
- Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto (standard, unlike some rivals cough Toyota RAV4 cough).
- Wash-out floors (for when your “off-roading” involves spilled lattes).
- Heated seats/steering wheel now standard on Big Bend+ trims.
- Powertrain: Still No V6, But Who Cares?
- 1.5L EcoBoost (181 HP): Fine for Starbucks runs.
- 2.0L EcoBoost (250 HP): The one to get (especially with the Badlands trim).
- Still no hybrid—Ford, where’s the Bronco Sport PHEV?
- Off-Road Upgrades (For Light Trail Posers)
- Trail Turn Assist (tighter turns on dirt, because drifting).
- Revised suspension tuning (less bouncy than before).
- All-terrain tires (standard on Badlands). What Still Sucks?
- Not a real Bronco—don’t expect Rubicon trails.
- No hybrid option—Escape has one, why not this?
- Cramped back seat—better for dogs than adults.
- Markup madness—dealers still charging $3K+ over MSRP. Should You Buy One?
✅ If you want a stylish, capable small SUV—it’s way cooler than a RAV4.
✅ If you do light off-roading—dirt roads, snow, beach trips, no problem.
❌ If you need serious rock crawling—get a real Bronco or Wrangler.
❌ If you want a hybrid—look at the Escape PHEV instead. Verdict: 8/10
The 2025 Bronco Sport is the best poser off-roader you can buy. It’s not a hardcore trail machine, but it’s way more fun than a CR-V.
Your Turn: Would you take a Bronco Sport over a Jeep Renegade? Or is this just a dressed-up Escape? Sound off below! 🏜️