The Bronco Sport shares a platform with the Ford Escape, but you can’t tell by looking at it. It’s shorter and boxier than the Escape with far more aggressive styling. We think it looks more distinctive than a Jeep Compass, with its bold “BRONCO” lettering on the front grille. Ford offers the Bronco Sport in five trim levels. We tested the rugged Badlands model that sits near the top, just one below the First Edition, which is distinguished by its safari-style roof that’s raised in the rear to improve headroom.
Available optionally, the Badlands comes with 17-inch Carbonized Gray alloys styled to look like steelies, giving a more industrial aesthetic. Ford offers several bold color choices, including Cyber Orange, Rapid Red, Area 51, and Kodiak Brown. Buyers who like a gutsy, squared-off vehicle will find a lot to like with the Bronco Sport.