What is Towing Capacity? 

Towing capacity is an important consideration for anyone in the market for a new SUV or crossover vehicle. Whether you need to haul a small trailer, a boat, or even a camper, understanding the maximum hauling power of a vehicle can make or break your purchasing decision. 

The Ford Bronco Sport, a rugged and versatile compact SUV, has been generating a lot of buzz in the automotive world. Let’s get into this all-terrain crossover’s towing capabilities, exploring its maximum towing capacity, the factors that influence it, and the features that make it a capable towing companion.

What is the Maximum Towing Capacity of the Ford Bronco Sport?

The Ford Bronco Sport’s maximum towing capacity varies depending on the trim level and engine configuration. The base model with the 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine has a hauling power of up to 2,000 pounds. However, with the available 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, the Bronco Sport’s towing capacity increases to a maximum of 2,200 pounds. This impressive pulling performance allows this compact adventure vehicle to handle a wide range of trailers, from small utility trailers to larger pop-up campers, making it a versatile choice for those with towing needs.

Are There Variations in Towing Capacity Across Different Trims?

The towing capacity of the Ford Bronco Sport can also vary depending on the specific trim level. The base trim, known as the Bronco Sport Base, has a maximum hauling power of 2,000 pounds. The mid-level Big Bend and Outer Banks trims, with the 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, have a slightly higher capacity of 2,200 pounds. With their more powerful 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines, the top-of-the-line Badlands and First Edition trims maintain the 2,200-pound capacity.

What Influences Towing Capacity?

Several factors affect the pulling capabilities of the Ford Bronco Sport, including the vehicle’s engine power, transmission, suspension, and overall design. The Bronco Sport’s available 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine, which produces 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, provides the necessary power and torque to handle heavier towing loads. Additionally, the Bronco Sport’s advanced four-wheel-drive system and available Terrain Management System, which offers selectable drive modes for various terrain conditions, contribute to its towing capabilities.

What Are the Trailer Hitch Options for the Ford Bronco Sport?

The Ford Bronco Sport comes with a standard Class II trailer hitch receiver, capable of handling towing loads up to 2,200 pounds. This trailer hitch is integrated into the vehicle’s frame, ensuring a secure and stable connection for your trailer. For those who require additional towing capabilities, Ford offers a range of hitch accessories, including ball mounts, wiring harnesses, and weight-distributing hitches, to further enhance the Bronco Sport’s towing performance.

Are There Special Towing Features and Technologies?

The Ford Bronco Sport has several advanced features and technologies that make towing easier and safer. These include:

• Trailer Sway Control: This system monitors the motion of the trailer and applies the necessary braking force to help stabilize the trailer and prevent sway.
• Tow/Haul Mode: This mode optimizes the transmission’s shifting and engine braking to provide better control and stability when towing.
• Rearview Camera with Trailer Hitch Assist: The rearview camera includes a helpful Trailer Hitch Assist feature, which provides guidelines to assist with lining up the trailer hitch.
• Trailer Lighting Check: This feature allows you to test the trailer’s lighting system, ensuring proper connection and functionality before setting off.

What is the Payload Capacity of the Ford Bronco Sport?

In addition to its impressive towing capacity, the Ford Bronco Sport also boasts a substantial payload capacity. The base model has a maximum payload capacity of 1,370 pounds, while the more off-road-focused Badlands trim can carry up to 1,370 pounds of cargo and passengers. This payload capacity allows this compact crossover to haul a wide range of gear, from camping equipment to sports gear, making it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

What is the Impact of Engine Choice on Towing Capacity?

The engine configuration of the Ford Bronco Sport plays a significant role in determining its towing capacity. As mentioned earlier, the base 1.5-litre EcoBoost engine has a maximum hauling power of 2,000 pounds, while the available 2.0-litre EcoBoost engine boosts the capacity to 2,200 pounds. The more powerful 2.0-litre engine, with its increased horsepower and torque, provides the necessary muscle to handle heavier towing loads with greater ease and confidence.

What are the Safety Features for Towing with the Ford Bronco Sport?

When towing a trailer, safety is of the utmost importance. The Ford Bronco Sport has advanced safety features that help ensure a secure and stable towing experience. These features include:

• Trailer Sway Control: As mentioned earlier, this system helps stabilize the trailer and prevent sway, reducing the risk of an accident.
• AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™: This electronic stability control system helps maintain control of the vehicle and trailer, even in challenging driving conditions.
• Rearview Camera with Trailer Hitch Assist: The rearview camera and Trailer Hitch Assist feature makes connecting and maneuvering the trailer easier, improving safety and reducing the risk of accidents.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System: This system monitors the tire pressure of both the Bronco Sport and the attached trailer, alerting the driver to any issues that could affect towing stability.

Can You Tow a Camper or Small RV with the Ford Bronco Sport?

With its impressive towing capacity, the Ford Bronco Sport is a capable choice for those looking to tow a small camper or recreational vehicle (RV). This compact SUV’s 2,200-pound hauling power allows it to handle the weight of many compact campers and lightweight travel trailers. However, it’s important to carefully consider the weight and dimensions of the trailer, as well as the Bronco Sport’s payload capacity, to ensure a safe and stable towing experience.

What are the Tongue Weight Limits and Considerations?

When towing a trailer, the tongue weight, which is the downward force exerted on the trailer hitch by the trailer, is a crucial factor to consider. The Ford Bronco Sport has a maximum tongue weight limit of 220 pounds. It’s essential to ensure that the tongue weight of the trailer does not exceed this limit, as exceeding it can negatively impact the vehicle’s handling, stability, and overall safety. Careful loading and weight distribution of the trailer are necessary to stay within the tongue weight capacity.

Are There Accessories for Towing Capacity?

Adding accessories and aftermarket modifications to the Ford Bronco Sport can impact its capacity to tow. Things like heavy-duty suspension upgrades, larger tires, and the installation of roof racks or cargo carriers can reduce the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. It’s crucial to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or speak with a Ford dealer to understand how specific accessories may affect towing capabilities.

Is This SUV a Compelling Choice For Towing?

The Ford Bronco Sport is a versatile and capable compact SUV that offers impressive towing capacity, ranging from 2,000 pounds to 2,200 pounds, depending on the trim level and engine configuration. With its advanced towing features, safety technologies, and substantial payload capacity, this versatile compact SUV is a compelling choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle their towing and adventure needs. By understanding the factors that influence towing capacity and the various considerations involved, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect Bronco Sport to suit your lifestyle.

To learn more about the Ford Bronco Sport’s impressive towing capabilities and how it can meet your specific needs, speak with your Ford dealer, Formula Ford, today. They can provide personalized guidance and help you find the perfect configuration to suit your towing and adventure requirements.