Exterior Design
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport undergoes a significant redesign, showcasing a bold and rugged exterior that enhances its off-road capabilities. The body lines are more angular and muscular, emphasizing the vehicle’s strength and agility. The grille features a wider, trapezoidal shape with a honeycomb mesh insert, flanked by sleek LED headlights that extend into the fenders. The taillights adopt a vertical orientation, providing a distinct and modern touch to the rear.
Materials and Construction
The exterior of the 2026 Bronco Sport utilizes a combination of lightweight and durable materials. The body panels are constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring rigidity and impact resistance. The roof and hood are made from aluminum, reducing overall weight and improving fuel efficiency. The use of composite materials in the bumpers and fender flares enhances durability and flexibility while minimizing damage during off-road adventures.
Key Exterior Dimensions
The 2026 Bronco Sport has undergone slight dimensional changes compared to its predecessor. The following table highlights the key exterior dimensions:
| Dimension | 2026 Model | Previous Generation |
|—|—|—|
| Length | 184.8 inches | 183.5 inches |
| Width | 75.9 inches | 75.1 inches |
| Height | 70.2 inches | 69.9 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 8.8 inches | 8.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 inches | 105.1 inches |
Powertrain and Performance
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport receives significant powertrain upgrades, enhancing both fuel efficiency and performance.
Engines and Transmissions
The 2026 Bronco Sport offers two engine options: a standard 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four and an optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. The 2.0-liter engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.7-liter engine comes with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
Performance Enhancements
The new powertrains deliver improved power and torque over the previous generation. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost now produces 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, representing a 10 horsepower and 15 lb-ft increase. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost has been upgraded to generate 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, a 30 horsepower and 30 lb-ft increase.
Fuel Efficiency Improvements
Despite the performance enhancements, the 2026 Bronco Sport also boasts improved fuel efficiency. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost is now rated at 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the 2.7-liter EcoBoost gets 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. These figures represent a 1-2 mpg improvement over the previous generation.
| 2026 Bronco Sport 2.0L EcoBoost | 2025 Bronco Sport 2.0L EcoBoost | 2026 Bronco Sport 2.7L EcoBoost | 2025 Bronco Sport 2.7L EcoBoost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 250 | 240 | 330 | 300 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 275 | 260 | 415 | 385 |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 6.5 | 6.8 | 5.9 | 6.3 |
| Top Speed (mph) | 120 | 115 | 125 | 120 |
Technology and Safety
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport comes with an array of advanced technology and safety features that enhance the driving experience and ensure passenger protection.
Technology Features
The updated infotainment system features a larger 12-inch touchscreen with a user-friendly interface and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The system also includes a built-in navigation system and a premium audio system with 10 speakers.
Other notable technology features include:
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
- Rear cross-traffic braking
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport has received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Key safety features include:
- Anti-lock brakes
- Traction control
- Stability control
- Airbags
- Tire pressure monitoring system
Off-Road Capabilities
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport receives significant upgrades in its off-road capabilities, solidifying its position as a formidable contender in the rugged terrain.
Ground clearance has been increased by 1.5 inches, providing drivers with enhanced maneuverability over obstacles. The suspension system has been recalibrated, featuring stiffer springs and revised damping, offering improved stability and control while navigating challenging terrain.
Enhanced Traction Control Systems
The 2026 Bronco Sport introduces a suite of advanced traction control systems, including a new Terrain Management System with seven selectable modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. These modes optimize the vehicle’s performance by adjusting throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control settings to match specific driving conditions.
Additionally, the Bronco Sport now features a rear-locking differential, which significantly enhances traction on loose or uneven surfaces by ensuring power is distributed evenly to both rear wheels.
Off-Road Specifications Comparison
The following table compares the off-road specifications of the 2026 Bronco Sport to the previous generation model:
| Specification | 2026 Bronco Sport | Previous Generation |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Clearance | 9.8 inches | 8.3 inches |
| Approach Angle | 30.4 degrees | 29.4 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 33.1 degrees | 31.0 degrees |
| Breakover Angle | 24.2 degrees | 21.7 degrees |
| Traction Control Systems | Terrain Management System with 7 modes, rear-locking differential | Terrain Management System with 5 modes, open rear differential |
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Bronco Sport is expected to carry a starting price of around $30,000. This is slightly higher than the current model, which starts at $27,495. The Bronco Sport will be available in a variety of trim levels, including the Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Badlands. The Badlands trim is the most expensive and comes with a variety of off-road upgrades.
Trim Levels and Configurations
The 2026 Bronco Sport will be available in a variety of trim levels and configurations. The Base trim is the most affordable and comes with standard features such as a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, an 8-inch touchscreen, and cloth seats. The Big Bend trim adds features such as a 10-speaker audio system, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Outer Banks trim adds features such as a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, leather seats, and a sunroof. The Badlands trim is the most expensive and comes with a variety of off-road upgrades, such as a locking rear differential, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
Availability
The 2026 Bronco Sport is expected to go on sale in late 2025. It will be available at Ford dealerships across the United States.
FAQ Corner
What are the key exterior changes in the 2026 Bronco Sport?
The redesigned exterior features a bolder grille, updated headlights and taillights, and a more aggressive stance, giving it a commanding presence on and off the road.
How has the interior of the Bronco Sport been enhanced?
The cabin has been upgraded with a redesigned dashboard, comfortable seating, and an advanced infotainment system, offering a seamless blend of comfort and functionality.
What engine options are available in the 2026 Bronco Sport?
The Bronco Sport will offer a range of engine options, including powerful and fuel-efficient options to meet the diverse needs of drivers.
What are the off-road capabilities of the 2026 Bronco Sport?
The Bronco Sport boasts enhanced off-road capabilities with improved ground clearance, suspension, and traction control systems, allowing it to tackle challenging terrain with confidence.
When will the 2026 Bronco Sport be available?
The expected availability and pricing details for the 2026 Bronco Sport will be announced closer to its official launch date.