Ford Explorer Vs Bronco Sport: The Ultimate Battle Of Suvs – Which One Comes Out On Top?

In the realm of SUVs, the Ford Explorer and the Ford Bronco Sport stand as two formidable options, each catering to distinct driving styles and needs. As you embark on your journey to select the perfect SUV, let’s delve into a detailed comparison of these two automotive powerhouses, considering their performance, features, and overall driving experience.

Performance: Unleashing the Power

Engine and Powertrain

The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3-litre Ecoboost engine delivering 300 horsepower and 320lb-ft of torque, a 3.0-litre Ecoboost engine with 365 horsepower and 420lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3-litre V6 Hybrid engine with a combined output of 318 horsepower. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.0-litre Ecoboost engine that generates 250 horsepower and 277lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration and Top speed

In terms of performance, the Ford Explorer with its more potent engine options takes the lead. The 3.0-litre Ecoboost engine propels the Explorer from 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, while the Bronco Sport with its 2.0-litre Ecoboost engine completes the same sprint in 6.8 seconds. Both SUVs reach similar top speed, with the Explorer slightly edging out the Bronco Sport, achieving a maximum speed of 123 mph compared to 120 mph.

Off-road Prowess

The Bronco Sport, with its rugged design and advanced four-Wheel- Drive system, excels in off-road adventures. Its Terrain Management System provides various drive models tailored to different off-road conditions, allowing you to conquer rougher and more rugged landscapes. The Explorer, while capable on off-road excursions, is more suited for light off-roading and overlanding.

Features: Exploring the Comforts and Convenience

Cabin Space and Seating

The Ford Explorer offers a more spacious interior with seating for up to seven occupants, making it an ideal choice for families or those who frequently transport large groups. The Bronco Sport, with its more adventurous focus, provides seating for four, offering ample space for outdoor gear and equipment.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Ford Explorer offers a larger 12.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4A software, providing a more advanced and user- friendly experience. The Bronco Sport features an 8.0-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3, which, while less sophisticated, still offers a user- friendly and intuitive interface.

Safety and Assistance

The Ford Explorer and the Bronco Sport come well-equipped with a suite of safety and assistance features, including adaptive Cruise Control, automated emergency braking, and blind-Spot monitoring. The Explorer, however, offers a slightly more extensive range of advanced safety features such as active park assist and a 360-Degree camera system.

Driving Dynamics: Steering and Handling

The Ford Explorer offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, with a well-weighted steering feel and a smooth ride quality. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, provides a more rugged and adventurous driving experience, with a stiffer Suspension and more responsive steering.

Efficiency: MPG and Emissions

The Ford Explorer with its larger engine options and heavier weight has lower fuel efficiency than the Bronco Sport. The Explorer’s combined MPG is estimated to be around 18 mpg, while the Bronco Sport achieves an estimated combined MPG of 23 mpg.

Pricing: Value for Your Dollar

The Ford Explorer starts at a higher price point than the Bronco Sport, with a starting price of around $33,000 compared to the Bronco Sport’s starting price of around $27,000. However, the Explorer offers more standard features and more powerful engine options for the higher price.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Ideal Ride

The Ford Explorer and the Bronco Sport represent two distinct driving experiences, each catering to different needs and desires. The Ford Explorer is a versatile and capable SUV that offers a spacious interior, powerful performance, and advanced features, making it a great choice for families and those who value comfort and refinement. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, is the perfect choice for adventurous drivers who seek a rugged and off-road capable SUV, with a more focused and fun driving experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Explorer and the Bronco Sport depends on your individual needs and priorities. Both SUVs offer unique strengths and appeal, and the decision should be based on your driving style, budget, and desired features.

What People Want to Know

1. Which SUV has better towing capacity – the Ford Explorer or the Bronco Sport?

Answer: The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity of 5,600 pounds compared to the Bronco Sport’s 3,500-pound towing capacity.

2. Which SUV has a better off-road performance – the Ford Explorer or the Bronco Sport?

Answer: The Bronco Sport, with its advanced four-Wheel- Drive system, Terrain Management system, and rugged design, is better suited for off-roading than the Ford Explorer.

3. Which SUV has a more fuel- efficient engine – the Ford Explorer or the Bronco Sport?

Answer: The Bronco Sport has a more fuel- efficient engine, with an estimated combined MPG of 23 mpg compared to the Explorer’s estimated 18 mpg combined MPG.

4. Which SUV has a more spacious interior – the Ford Explorer or the Bronco Sport?

Answer: The Ford Explorer has a more spacious interior with seating for up to seven occupants, while the Bronco Sport offers seating for four.

5. Which SUV has more advanced infotainment and connectivity features – the Ford Explorer or the Bronco Sport?

Answer: The Ford Explorer offers a more advanced infotainment system with a larger 12.0-inch touchscreen and Ford’s SYNC 4A software, while the Bronco Sport has an 8.0-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3.