Ford sharpens the appeal of its adventure-focused compact SUV with significant tech upgrades and the highly anticipated Sasquatch package for enhanced off-road capability.
(Date: April 22, 2025) – The Ford Bronco Sport has successfully carved a niche for itself since its debut, offering a compelling blend of rugged aesthetics inspired by its larger sibling, practical daily usability, and genuine off-road chops uncommon in the compact crossover segment. For the 2025 model year, Ford isn’t resting on its laurels. Significant interior technology enhancements and the introduction of the renowned Sasquatch package elevate the Bronco Sport’s appeal, making it an even more compelling proposition for adventure seekers who require a versatile daily driver.
What’s New for 2025? Bridging the Gap Between Daily and Dirty
The most talked-about update is undoubtedly the availability of the Sasquatch package. Previously exclusive to the larger Bronco, this package is now available as an option on the 2025 Bronco Sport Outer Banks and Badlands trims, significantly bolstering their off-road capabilities. It includes:
- Aggressive 29-inch Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires.
- An upgraded suspension setup provides nearly an inch of additional ground clearance.
- Steel skid plates for underbody protection.
- A unique twin-clutch rear-drive unit with a locking differential for enhanced traction.
- Front and rear recovery hooks and fender-mounted tie-downs.
- Trail Control™ (off-road cruise control) with one-pedal driving capability.
- Badlands Sasquatch models feature specialised steel rear dampers and additional G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), including Rock Crawl and a new Rally mode, optimised for high-speed driving on loose surfaces.
Beyond the hardware, the 2025 Bronco Sport receives a significant overhaul of its interior technology. Standard across all trims are:
- A large 13.2-inch centre touchscreen running Ford’s intuitive SYNC® 4 infotainment system, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and over-the-air update capability.
- A crisp 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster with customizable layouts.
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ is now standard, bundling features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centring, Evasive Steering Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Braking.
Minor exterior styling tweaks, including revised front and rear bumpers, help identify the 2025 model. Base Big Bend trims can also opt for a new Black Diamond Off-Road package, which adds all-terrain tires and steel skid plates for improved trail readiness.
Performance: Two flavours of EcoBoost® and Standard AWD
The Bronco Sport continues to offer two powertrain choices:
- 1.5l EcoBoost® Turbocharged 3-Cylinder: Standard on Big Bend, Heritage, Free Wheeling, and Outer Banks trims, this engine produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, it delivers adequate power for daily driving and respectable fuel efficiency (EPA estimated 25 mpg city/29 mpg highway). While capable of producing light, producing height, and engaging, an ageing range of adjectives. Merging and carrying a 4-Cylinder: Exclusive to the Badlands trim, this engine significantly ups the ante with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It utilises the speed automatic transmission but adds SelectShift paddle shifters and features an advanced 4×4 system with a twin-clutch rear drive unit (standard on Badlands, included with Sasquatch on Outer Banks). This powertrain delivers noticeably stronger acceleration and is better suited for demanding off-road situations or towing (up to 2,700 lbs when properly equipped, compared to 2,200 kg for the 1.5l). Fuel economy dips slightly to an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.
All Bronco Sports feature standard 4×4 and the Terrain Management System™ with G.O.A.T. Modes™. Base models get five modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand), while the Badlands adds Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl (plus Rally mode if equipped with Sasquatch). The ride quality is generally composed but firmer than that of typical pavement-focused crossovers, especially on Badlands and Sasquatch models, due to their off-road-tuned suspensions and tires. Handling is competent, though the steering feel is somewhat muted.
Interior: Ruggedly Practical with a Tech Infusion
Inside, the Bronco Sport maintains its functional and durable design. Materials are designed to withstand an active lifestyle, featuring options such as easy-to-clean cloth seats and available rubberised seatbacks (standard on the Badlands). The upright seating position offers good visibility, and front passengers have ample space. The rear seat, however, remains snug for taller adults compared to some rivals.
The standout features are the new standard digital displays. The 13.2-inch SYNC® 4 screen is responsive and user-friendly, while the 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is clear and configurable. Practical touches abound, like the available MOLLE strap system on front seatbacks, under-seat storage bins, an integrated bottle opener in the liftgate, and adjustable LED floodlights in the liftgate panel – perfect for campsites or loading gear in the dark. The cargo space is generous, offering up to 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to an impressive 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded, thanks to the tall, safari-style roofline.
Technology and Safety: Comprehensive Coverage
The upgrade to SYNC® 4 with the large standard screens is a significant improvement. Wireless smartphone integration is seamless. The now-standard Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ suite provides a robust set of driver aids, including:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System1 (Alert, Aid, Driver Alert)
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centring
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Rear Parking Sensors & Rear View Camera
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
Higher trims and packages offer additional technology, including a 10-speaker BOSE Sound System, wireless charging pad, a 180-degree front camera (valuable for off-road use), and Connected Navigation.
Trims and Recommendations
- Big Bend: The entry point, offering excellent value with the new standard tech, standard 4×4, G.O.A.T. modes, and available Black Diamond package for light off-roading.
- Heritage/Free Wheeling: Primarily appearance packages, building on the Big Bend, offering retro styling cues.
- Outer Ban’s additional features include immediate steering, a larger wheel with the Sasquatch package for serious capability, combined with creature comforts.
- Badlands: The most capable trim off the shelf, featuring the potent 2.0-litre engine, advanced 4×4 system, unique off-road suspension, additional G.O.A.T. modes, and durable interior finishes. Adding the Sasquatch package maximises prowess.
The choice depends on your needs. For daily driving with occasional adventure, the Big Bend or Outer Banks suffice. For frequent and more challenging off-roading, the Badlands, especially with the Sasquatch package, is the clear choice, provided the budget allows (the Sasquatch package pushes prices well over $40,000).
Key Specifications (Approximate)
| Feature | 1.5L EcoBoost® | 2.0l EcoBoost® (Badlands) |
| Engine | 1.5L Turbo I-3 | 2.0L Turbo I-4 |
| Horsepower | 181 HP @ 6,000 RPM | 250 HP @ 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM | 280 lb-ft @ 3,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Automatic | 8-Speed Auto w/SelectShift® |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD | Advanced AWD w/ Twin-Clutch |
| EPA MPG (City/Hwy) | 25 / 29 | 21 / 26 |
| Max Towing (lbs) | 2,200 | 2,700 |
| Cargo Vol (Behind Rear) | 32.5 cu ft | 29.4 – 32.5 cu ft |
| Cargo Vol (Max) | 65.2 cu ft | 60.1 – 65.2 cu ft |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 in | 105.1 in |
| Length | 172.7 in | 172.7 in |
| Ground Clearance | ~7.8 – 8.8 in | ~8.6 – 8.8 in (Higher w/ Sasquatch) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Verdict: A More Polished and Potent Adventurer
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport successfully builds upon its strengths. The standard technology upgrades make it a significantly more modern and user-friendly vehicle on a day-to-day basis. The addition of the Sasquatch package provides a legitimate capability boost for those serious about hitting the trails, allowing the “Baby Bronco” to punch further above its weight class.
While it faces compromises – namely, a snug rear seat and a ride that can be firmer than that of competitors– the Bronco Sport offers a unique combination of style, practicality, standard all-wheel drive, and genuine off-road potential unmatched by most compact crossovers, if you desire adventure-ready capability without stepping up to a larger, body-on-frame SUV, the significantly updated 2025 Bronco Sport demands serious consideration.
