The Ford Bronco Sport continues to capture attention in the compact SUV market with its rugged styling and impressive capabilities. For those considering a purchase, understanding the differences between model years can help make an informed decision.
Bronco Sport Exterior Updates and Design Changes
Colour Options and Appearance
The Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend brings several notable exterior updates:
- New “Fury Orange” exterior colour option exclusive to the latest lineup
- Revised front grille design with updated logo placement
- Redesigned LED daytime running lights with enhanced signature appearance
- Standard roof rack side rails maintain the same load capacity as previous model
- Updated wheel designs while maintaining the 17-inch aluminum wheel size
Exterior Feature Changes
Some exterior features have been adjusted for the new model year:
- Redesigned front and rear bumpers with slightly altered styling cues
- Enhanced LED fog lamps with improved illumination pattern
- Consistent approach and departure angles with the previous model
- Privacy glass on rear windows remains standard on both model years
- Same 210 mm ground clearance as the older model
Powertrain and Performance Updates
Engine and Transmission
The powertrain in the Bronco Sport Big Bend trim continues with some minor refinements:
- Maintains the 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder engine
- Slight increase in torque output for latest models
- Same 8-speed automatic transmission across both model years
- Consistent fuel economy ratings between years
- Enhanced throttle response through electronic control updates
Four-Wheel Drive System
Both model years feature the terrain management system with G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes:
- New model retains the same five G.O.A.T. modes as the previous version
- Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand driving modes
- No changes to the 4×4 system hardware
- Consistent traction management technology
- Same maximum wading depth of 450 mm
Interior Comfort and Technology
Dashboard and Controls
The latest model introduces several changes to the dashboard and control layout:
- More streamlined center console design
- Updated climate control interface with improved tactile feedback
- Same general layout but with refined finish materials
- New interior colour options available for the Big Bend trim
- Enhanced storage solutions in the center console area
Digital Features and Displays
Significant technology changes appear in the new model:
- 12-inch digital instrument cluster now optional rather than standard (as was in some older models)
- Updated SYNC infotainment system with enhanced voice recognition
- Standard 8-inch touchscreen maintained across both model years
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard
- USB-A and USB-C ports in both front and rear seating areas
Convenience Features
Several convenience features have been adjusted for the new model year:
- Homelink garage door opener moved from standard to optional equipment
- Rain-sensing wipers now part of a higher option package rather than standard
- Wireless charging pad now optional on the Big Bend trim
- Keyless entry and push-button start remain standard on both years
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror continues as an available option
Cargo and Interior Space
Storage Solutions
Both Bronco Sport model years feature practical storage options with some enhancements:
- Same 920 litres of cargo space behind the second row
- Maintains 1,846 litres with rear seats folded
- Enhanced under-floor storage compartment design
- Zippered seatback pockets now standard on the new models
- Same adjustable cargo floor height system
Seating and Comfort
The seating configuration receives minor updates:
- New cloth seat material with improved stain resistance
- Consistent 8-way power driver seat adjustment
- Manual passenger seat adjustment maintained
- Heated front seats remain optional on the Big Bend trim
- Same rear seat split-fold functionality (60/40)
Safety Features and Driver Assistance
Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology
Safety features remain robust with some adjustments:
- Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features maintained across both years
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System and Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- Rear view camera with washer feature
Enhanced Safety Options
The latest model offers some new safety features:
- Improved adaptive cruise control system available as an option
- Enhanced lane centering technology
- New traffic sign recognition capability
- Consistent side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags
- Same SOS Post-Crash Alert System
Connectivity and Entertainment
Audio System
Audio systems receive minor updates:
- Standard six-speaker audio system maintained
- Optional 10-speaker B&O sound system with enhanced audio processing
- SiriusXM with 360L remains available on both model years
- Same AM/FM stereo with MP3 capability
- Voice-activated touchscreen navigation system remains optional
Connectivity Options
The latest model offers updated connectivity features:
- FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability standard on both years
- Enhanced remote features through the FordPass app
- Same wireless software update capability
- New connected trip planning features
- Improved voice command functionality
Bronco Sport Packages and Options
Package Restructuring
The new model year brings notable changes to package offerings:
- Convenience Package contents adjusted with some features now standalone options
- New Black Diamond Package offering enhanced off-road styling elements
- Updated Big Bend Premium Package with revised content
- Equipment groups restructured to offer more customization options
- New appearance packages exclusive to the new model year
Optional Equipment
Several changes appear in the available options:
- New all-terrain tire option for improved off-road capability
- Revised roof rack accessory options
- Updated interior accessory offerings
- New exterior styling accessories
- Revised trailer tow package with the same 907 kg towing capacity
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel Consumption Ratings
Both model years maintain similar efficiency:
- Consistent city fuel consumption of approximately 9.3 L/100 km
- Highway rating remains at approximately 8.1 L/100 km
- Combined fuel economy rating stays around 8.7 L/100 km
- Same 53-litre fuel tank capacity
- Auto start-stop technology standard on both years
Eco-Friendly Features
The latest model maintains the same environmental considerations:
- Same engine emission controls
- Consistent use of eco-friendly interior materials
- Auto start-stop technology to reduce idling fuel consumption
- No changes to the engine cooling system efficiency
- Same regenerative braking capabilities in city driving
Off-Road Capability
Terrain Management
Off-road capabilities remain strong in both model years:
- Identical approach angle of 21.7 degrees
- Same breakover angle of 18.2 degrees
- Departure angle maintained at 30.4 degrees
- Consistent ground clearance of 210 mm
- Same Hill Descent Control functionality
Trail Performance
The Bronco Sport Big Bend trim maintains its off-road credentials:
- Same all-terrain tire options
- Consistent Trail Control technology
- Identical water fording capability (450 mm)
- Same independent front and rear suspension tuning
- Maintained traction management system with G.O.A.T. modes
Warranty and Ownership Experience
Coverage Terms
Warranty coverage remains consistent:
- Same 3-year/60,000 km basic coverage
- Identical 5-year/100,000 km powertrain warranty
- Consistent roadside assistance program
- Same corrosion perforation protection
- Unchanged safety restraint system coverage
Ownership Benefits
The ownership experience includes:
- FordPass Rewards program continues for both model years
- Consistent scheduled maintenance recommendations
- Same oil change intervals
- Identical brake service intervals
- Unchanged tire rotation guidelines
Which Bronco Sport Model Year Is Right For You?
The differences between the Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend trims are evolutionary rather than revolutionary. The new model introduces fresh styling elements, new colours, and technology enhancements, while also moving some previously standard features to the options list.
If having features like rain-sensing wipers, a wireless charging pad, and a garage door opener as standard equipment is important to you, the previous model might be more appealing. However, if you prefer the updated styling, enhanced connectivity, and new colour options, the latest model could be the better choice. Both model years deliver the same core Bronco Sport experience, with rugged capability, practical interior space, and an adventure-ready attitude that has made this compact SUV so popular.
Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.
