2023 FORD BRONCO SPORT, THE ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURER
When your heart is torn between the city and the country, and you don’t know what to choose, it’s time to consider the Ford Bronco Sport. This compact SUV has the makings of a city vehicle but it’s also equipped to take you to the far corners of the forest, when you choose the right version.
But adventure isn’t everything. The Ford Bronco Sport relies on both its exceptional capabilities and its rebellious, good-guy looks. Especially since for 2023, Ford has brought back Heritage versions that, with their two-tone panels, are reminiscent of the original Bronco versions.
STUDIED MECHANICS
The Ford Bronco Sport has smaller dimensions. It shares the platform of the Ford Escape, from which it also borrows engine. The base engine of the Bronco Sport is a 181-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder, but a 245-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder is also available.
To transmit this power to the wheels, both variants rely on an eight-speed automatic transmission. Enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to shift gears with paddle shifters in the case of the larger engine. An upgraded cooling system also helps get the most out of the vehicle.
As a true adventurer, the Ford Bronco Sport has a 4WD system standard on all versions.
However, this intelligent gearing is paired with a unique feature of the small SUV: the G.O.A.T. system for Go Over Any Terrain.
On most versions, G.O.A.T. allows you to select one of five driving modes, Sand, Slippery, Sport, Ecological or Normal, and thus face the most demanding conditions. The system affects the four-wheel drive but also the sampling of the automatic transmission and the throttle response, among other things.
True enthusiasts, however, will want to consider the Badlands version, which adds Rock and Mud/Road modes for even more off-road capability, but that’s not the only feature of the Badlands, which is designed specifically for off-roading.
It adds a standard dual-clutch rear transmission with a differential lock. It also features off-road tires mounted on 17-inch wheels, a 1.0-inch raised suspension for better ground clearance and stronger shocks.
A more advanced 4×4 gear and a Trail Control system that acts as an off-road cruise control adds to the Badlands features, as does a 180-degree front camera with cleaning spray. Trail navigation is also available.
A NEAT INTERIOR
Beyond its exceptional capabilities on the trail and on the road, the Ford Bronco Sport offers a true living environment. The cockpit is designed to provide space for both families and serious adventurers.
There’s plenty of room on board, and the vehicle’s elevated design allows for exceptional rear seat clearance. The cargo area is also of good size. The cargo area can also be equipped with a sliding table that serves as a work area, a 400-watt inverter and LED lights built into the interior of the rear door that provides general lighting. The rear door features a glass hatch and an integrated bottle opener.
In the center of the dashboard, an 8-inch touchscreen houses the easy-to-master SYNC3 infotainment system. It comes standard with Apple Car Play and Android Auto. Music lovers will appreciate the optional Bang & Olufsen audio system, turning the cabin into a concert hall.
When it comes to safety, the Ford Bronco Sport shines, featuring the standard CoPilot360 system, among other things. It can also add, at the buyer’s option, additional safety options, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology.
Stylish and reassuring, the Ford Bronco Sport is definitely a family vehicle with spectacular capabilities that can take you around town and into the country.