The 2025 model year is ushering in a new era of off‑road capability across Ford’s Bronco family. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged, full‑sized charm of the Bronco or the compact, versatile character of the Bronco Sport, Ford has reimagined its lineup with a host of updated trim levels and features.
In this guide, we break down what’s new in each model’s trim lineup, compare performance and technology offerings, and help you decide which version is best suited to your adventures.
Overview Of The 2025 Ford Bronco And Bronco Sport
Both the Bronco and the Bronco Sport retain the unmistakable Bronco DNA—bold styling, proven off‑road capability, and a spirit of adventure—but they are designed for different lifestyles.
2025 Ford Bronco: Built for Extreme Off‑Roading
The 2025 Ford Bronco re‑enters the market as a full‑sized SUV with a heritage that dates back to 1965. It’s engineered for the most challenging trails, featuring a body-on‑frame design, robust suspension systems, and an array of off‑road enhancements.
With available two‑door and four‑door configurations, the Bronco is aimed at those who demand uncompromised ruggedness and extreme capability—whether climbing steep hills, fording streams, or conquering rocky terrain.
2025 Ford Bronco Sport: Urban-Ready, Adventure-Approved
For those who need a vehicle that performs double duty as a daily driver but can still venture off the beaten path, the Bronco Sport offers a more compact, fuel‑efficient option.
Although it shares much of the Bronco’s off‑road DNA—including multiple G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes and all‑wheel drive—the Bronco Sport’s smaller size and more car‑like ride make it particularly appealing for urban environments and light trail adventures alike.
Trim Level Comparison: Bronco vs. Bronco Sport
Both the Bronco and the Bronco Sport offer several trim levels, each with its own distinct features and capabilities. Understanding their differences can help you narrow down your options based on your priorities.
Ford Bronco Trim Levels
The 2025 Ford Bronco lineup caters to a wide range of off‑road enthusiasts with trims that emphasize everything from raw capability to premium amenities. Key trims include:
Base/Big Bend
- Engine & Powertrain: The entry‑level Bronco typically comes with a capable 2.3‑liter EcoBoost engine producing around 300 horsepower. Buyers can choose between a seven‑speed manual or a ten‑speed automatic transmission.
- Exterior & Interior: Expect a rugged look with standard off‑road features such as LED headlights, a sturdy grille, and protective elements like skid plates and tow hooks. Inside, the Base and Big Bend models offer durable cloth seating, a digital gauge cluster, and modern infotainment options.
- Ideal For: Buyers who want essential off‑road capability without extra frills, and who appreciate a classic Bronco aesthetic.
Heritage Edition
- Design Cues: The Heritage Edition pays homage to the original 1966 Bronco with retro‑inspired exterior accents such as a white‑painted roof and grille with bold Ford lettering. Unique graphics and vintage‑themed badges set it apart.
- Features: In addition to the robust powertrain, it offers upgraded interior finishes and exclusive design touches that blend classic styling with modern technology.
- Ideal For: Enthusiasts who appreciate history and want a nostalgic nod to the Bronco’s legacy, combined with today’s practical off‑road tech.
Outer Banks
- Luxury Meets Capability: The Outer Banks trim is tailored for those who value premium touches without sacrificing rugged capability. It comes with upscale interior appointments like leather‑trimmed seats, heated front seats, and advanced climate controls.
- Exterior Styling: A distinctive front grille, unique wheel designs (usually 18 inches), and refined exterior accents elevate its look.
- Ideal For: Drivers seeking a sophisticated off‑road vehicle that transitions seamlessly from rough trails to urban settings.
Badlands
- Off‑Road Focus: The Badlands is the high‑performance off‑road variant. It upgrades the Bronco’s capability with an advanced 2.0‑liter EcoBoost engine (often producing around 250 horsepower), enhanced suspension systems with features like a twin‑clutch rear-drive unit, and specialized off‑road gear.
- Protection & Performance: Standard features include aggressive skid plates, additional G.O.A.T. modes (such as Rock Crawl and Mud/Ruts), and robust tow hooks.
- Ideal For: Hard‑core off‑roaders who demand maximum performance and rugged durability for extreme terrain.
Stroppe Edition
- Racing Inspiration: Replacing the discontinued Wildtrak, the Stroppe Edition is a limited‑run, two‑door model that draws inspiration from Baja racer heritage. It features distinctive multi‑color paint schemes and exclusive badging.
- Performance Elements: This special edition often includes the 2.7‑liter EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a 10‑speed automatic transmission and comes with the signature Sasquatch Package to further enhance off‑road performance.
- Ideal For: Collectors and enthusiasts looking for a unique, limited‑edition Bronco with an unmistakably bold design and enhanced off‑road prowess.
Raptor
- The Ultimate Off‑Roader: Ford’s Raptor model is a high‑performance version engineered for extreme off‑road challenges. Powered by a 3.0‑liter twin‑turbocharged V6 (producing over 400 horsepower), the Raptor comes with sophisticated FOX Live Valve dampers and massive all‑terrain tires.
- Exclusive Features: Advanced performance features, rugged styling elements, and exclusive interior and exterior badges underline its status as the top‑tier Bronco.
- Ideal For: The most demanding off‑road adventurers who are willing to invest in a truly extreme machine.
Ford Bronco Sport Trim Levels
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport, while sharing Ford’s off‑road expertise, offers a more refined and versatile package suited for both daily urban driving and weekend trail escapades. Its trim levels include:
Big Bend
- Essentials and Value: The Big Bend trim is the entry‑level Bronco Sport, featuring a 1.5‑liter EcoBoost engine (producing about 181 horsepower) paired with an eight‑speed automatic transmission and standard all‑wheel drive.
- Standard Features: It comes with a 13.2‑inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, basic cloth upholstery, and a Terrain Management System with five G.O.A.T. Modes.
- Ideal For: Budget‑conscious buyers looking for core off‑road capability without extensive luxury features.
Heritage
- Retro Appeal: The Heritage trim builds on the Big Bend by adding nostalgic design elements such as a white‑painted roof, heritage‑style graphics, and plaid‑inspired upholstery.
- Enhanced Comfort: It also includes heated front seats and additional interior accents that pay homage to the Bronco’s storied past.
- Ideal For: Buyers with an appreciation for classic style combined with modern functionality in a compact package.
Free Wheeling
- Bold and Colorful: Inspired by 1980s design cues, the Free Wheeling trim stands out with vibrant exterior graphics and unique color accents. It features the same 1.5‑liter engine as the Big Bend but differentiates itself through bold badging and exterior styling.
- Distinctive Interior: The cabin is accented with multicolor stitching and specialty design details that evoke a sense of carefree adventure.
- Ideal For: Those who want a compact SUV with a playful, standout design for weekend escapades.
Outer Banks
- Premium Upgrade: The Outer Banks trim takes the Bronco Sport up a notch by adding upscale amenities, such as leather‑trimmed heated seats, an 18‑inch machined‑face wheel design, and a more refined interior with dual‑zone climate control.
- Focus on Comfort: This trim is designed for those who want a higher level of comfort and style without sacrificing off‑road capability.
- Ideal For: Urban drivers who need versatility—refined enough for city driving yet rugged enough for off‑road adventures.
Badlands
- Maximum Off‑Road Capability: The flagship off‑road variant of the Bronco Sport, the Badlands trim, upgrades the base powertrain to a more potent 2.0‑liter EcoBoost engine (producing around 238 horsepower). It comes equipped with advanced off‑road features such as an upgraded suspension system, additional G.O.A.T. Modes (for rock crawl and mud/ruts), heavy‑duty all‑terrain tires, and protective underbody skid plates.
- Technology and Safety: It also integrates a front 180‑degree camera, enhanced trail control systems, and interior enhancements for both comfort and durability.
- Ideal For: Buyers who need a compact yet highly capable SUV for frequent off‑road use and challenging terrains.
Performance And Capability Comparison
When it comes to performance, the differences between the Bronco and Bronco Sport trim levels largely reflect their size and intended use.
Engine Options and Power
Ford Bronco:
Most Bronco trims (Base/Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks) rely on a 2.3‑liter EcoBoost engine (around 300 hp), while the Badlands typically offers a 2.0‑liter option for enhanced off‑road precision.
The higher‑end Stroppe Edition and Raptor come with V6 engines (2.7‑liter or 3.0‑liter) that deliver significantly more power and torque for demanding off‑road conditions.
Ford Bronco Sport:
The Bronco Sport generally uses a smaller 1.5‑liter EcoBoost engine with 181 hp for its Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, and Outer Banks trims.
The Badlands variant of the Bronco Sport upgrades to a 2.0‑liter EcoBoost engine (approximately 238 hp), boosting performance for more rugged terrain.
Suspension and Off‑Road Systems
Ford Bronco:
The Bronco lineup benefits from robust body-on‑frame construction, advanced four-wheel-drive systems, and specialized packages like HOSS (High‑Performance Off‑Road Suspension) and available Sasquatch upgrades.
The Raptor model, with its FOX Live Valve dampers, offers unmatched adaptive suspension performance.
Ford Bronco Sport:
While built on a unibody architecture for a more car‑like ride, the Bronco Sport still features dedicated off‑road enhancements such as a Terrain Management System with multiple G.O.A.T. modes, skid plates, and available Sasquatch packages on Badlands and Outer Banks trims.
Towing and Capability
Ford Bronco:
Thanks to its larger build and optional towing packages, the Ford Bronco generally offers higher towing capacities, making it ideal for hauling trailers or heavy gear.
Ford Bronco Sport:
The Bronco Sport is designed with modest towing in mind—typically sufficient for small trailers and recreational equipment, but not meant for heavy-duty towing tasks.
Design And Interior Features
The aesthetics and comfort factors also differ noticeably between the two vehicles.
Exterior Styling
Ford Bronco:
The Bronco’s design is unapologetically rugged with a boxy silhouette, removable doors, and options for a hard‑top, soft‑top, or a painted fixed roof.
Distinctive design cues—ranging from retro Heritage graphics to aggressive Badlands accents and the exclusive Stroppe Edition color schemes—allow owners to choose a look that stands out on the trail.
Ford Bronco Sport:
The Bronco Sport inherits the Bronco’s off‑road ethos in a more compact form. Its styling is modern yet adventurous, featuring a sleek, upright stance that improves urban drivability.
Trim‑specific details, such as the bold Free Wheeling graphics or the premium touches of the Outer Banks, allow for personalization without the need for removable panels.
Interior Comfort And Versatility
Ford Bronco:
Larger Bronco models offer spacious cabins with versatile seating—ideal for families or serious off‑road expeditions—featuring durable materials designed to withstand mud and water.
Higher‑trim models come with premium amenities like leather‑trimmed seats, advanced infotainment systems, and a host of off‑road–focused practicalities such as dedicated gear storage and modular dashboard configurations.
Ford Bronco Sport:
The Bronco Sport’s interior is designed to maximize usability in a smaller package. While offering less overall space than the full‑sized Bronco, it is highly configurable with features like a flexible cargo management system, easy‑to‑clean surfaces, and user‑friendly controls.
Standard SYNC 4 infotainment and available driver‑assistance technologies keep the cabin modern and connected, providing comfort for both daily drives and weekend adventures.
Technology And Safety Features
Both vehicles are equipped with Ford’s suite of advanced technologies, although the focus slightly differs between the models.
Ford Bronco:
- Higher‑trim Bronco models include larger touchscreens, digital instrument clusters, and connectivity features that integrate seamlessly with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Ford Bronco Sport:
- The Bronco Sport comes standard with a 13.2‑inch touchscreen (SYNC 4) and a digital cluster, ensuring that even the most rugged model remains connected.
- FordPass Connect and over‑the‑air software updates help keep the system current and reliable.
Advanced Driver‑Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Both models come with Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assist, forward collision mitigation, blind‑spot monitoring, and rear cross‑traffic alert.
Additional safety features, such as 360‑degree cameras and trail control (especially on the Badlands and Raptor trims), enhance off‑road safety and ease of operation.
Pricing And Value Considerations
Price points vary widely based on trim level and available options.
Ford Bronco:
- Entry‑level models like the Base or Big Bend typically start at a higher MSRP than the Bronco Sport due to their larger size and more extensive off‑road hardware.
- Premium trims like the Heritage, Outer Banks, Badlands, Stroppe Edition, and Raptor push the price even higher, especially when equipped with advanced off‑road packages.
Ford Bronco Sport:
- The Bronco Sport’s Big Bend trim starts at a lower MSRP (around $29,995), providing an entry point for buyers who need a capable off‑roader on a budget.
- Upgraded trims, notably the Badlands, increase in price to reflect enhanced engine options and off‑road technology, yet remain more affordable than some of the full‑sized Bronco variants.
Value Proposition
Ford Bronco:
- Offers unmatched off‑road capability, superior towing capacity, and a variety of customizable options ideal for the extreme enthusiast.
- If your priority is to take on rugged environments with heavy gear and large families, the Bronco’s higher price is justified by its advanced hardware and versatility.
Ford Bronco Sport:
- Combines practicality with off‑road competence in a smaller, more efficient package.
- Ideal for those who want an off‑road capable SUV that is easier to maneuver in urban settings while still offering sufficient traction and rugged features for weekend trips.
Which One Is Right For You?
Choosing between the 2025 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport—and within each, selecting the right trim—boils down to your specific needs:
- For Extreme Off‑Roading and Versatility:
If you’re planning regular trips into the wild with heavy towing requirements, a family-sized cabin, and a focus on maximum off‑road performance, the full‑sized Ford Bronco (especially in Badlands, Stroppe Edition, or Raptor form) is the ideal choice. - For Urban Adventures with Occasional Off‑Roading:
If you need a vehicle that handles daily city driving with ease while still offering the ability to hit a rugged trail on weekends, the Ford Bronco Sport—with trims ranging from the practical Big Bend to the off‑road–capable Badlands—is an excellent match. - Budget Considerations:
The Bronco Sport typically starts at a lower price point than the Bronco, making it a smart option for buyers who want off‑road capability without the premium cost of a full‑sized SUV. - Style and Heritage:
The Heritage Editions in both lineups offer retro‑inspired design cues. If nostalgia plays a part in your decision, these trims merge classic aesthetics with modern performance.
Conclusion
The 2025 Ford Bronco and Ford Bronco Sport each bring their distinct strengths to the table. The full‑sized Bronco is built for those who demand ultimate off‑road capability and spacious versatility, while the Bronco Sport offers a more nimble, urban‑friendly alternative that still doesn’t compromise on adventure. By comparing their trims—ranging from the practical Big Bend to the aggressively capable Badlands (and the unique Stroppe Edition for the Bronco)—you now have a clearer picture of what each model can deliver.
When deciding which one is right for you, consider your typical driving environment, how often you’ll venture off‑road, your power and towing needs, and your budget. Both vehicles carry Ford’s famed legacy of durability and rugged capability, ensuring that no matter where your adventures take you, you’ll be ready to conquer the great outdoors.
Ready to experience off‑road freedom? Visit your local Ford dealer today to explore test‑drive options and configure your ideal 2025 Ford Bronco or Bronco Sport.
