The Ford Bronco Sport has carved a unique niche in the SUV market, celebrated for its blend of rugged styling and everyday practicality. A key aspect of its appeal lies in the engine options available, each offering a distinct driving experience. While the top-tier trims boast a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the standard models come equipped with a smaller 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine. This has led to assumptions about a significant performance gap, but as a seasoned automotive expert, I’ve had the opportunity to rigorously test both, and the reality is more nuanced than you might expect.
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of both the Badlands trim with its 2.0L engine and the Heritage Edition featuring the 1.5L, I’m here to offer an in-depth comparison of the Ford Bronco Sport Engine options. This isn’t just about horsepower figures; it’s about real-world performance, driving dynamics, and which engine truly aligns with your needs.
Many enthusiasts immediately gravitate towards the bigger engine, assuming more power is always better. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in the Bronco Sport Badlands certainly delivers a punch. It’s capable of producing ample power, enough to confidently spin the all-terrain tires even on dry pavement, a testament to its robust output. This engine provides brisk acceleration and a feeling of readily available power, making it ideal for those who prioritize spirited driving and off-road adventures where extra grunt is beneficial.
However, dismissing the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine as “puny” would be a mistake. My week-long experience with the Bronco Sport Heritage Edition, powered by this smaller engine, revealed a surprisingly capable and characterful powertrain. From navigating city traffic to cruising on suburban roads and even venturing onto snow-covered backroads, the 1.5L EcoBoost engine proved to be far from underwhelming.
While I missed some of the premium features of my Badlands trim, such as the heated steering wheel and sunroof, the engine performance of the 1.5L never felt lacking in everyday driving scenarios. In fact, it challenged my preconceived notions about what a base engine could offer in a vehicle like the Bronco Sport.
One of the most surprising aspects of the 1.5L Ford Bronco Sport engine is its distinctive character. It possesses a unique rumble and a slightly unrefined engine note that, in a way, adds to the vehicle’s charm. It’s not the smoothest or quietest engine, and it does exhibit more vibration than larger, more refined units. Some might even describe it as diesel-like in its low-RPM operation, where it can feel and sound quite assertive, especially at lower speeds around 1,100 RPM.
However, this perceived lack of refinement translates into a raw, engaging driving experience. It’s an engine that feels alive and connected, providing a tactile sense of what’s happening under the hood. When you demand more performance, the 1.5L responds willingly. Engaging the Sport mode transforms its demeanor, holding gears longer and accessing higher RPMs. This smooths out the engine’s character and delivers surprisingly immediate and plentiful power for most on-road needs. The aggressive downshifts in Sport mode are even more pronounced than in the 2.0L Badlands, adding to the sporty feel.
In snowy conditions, the 1.5L Bronco Sport engine, combined with its intelligent four-wheel-drive system, performed admirably. Even without the more advanced 4×4 Lock or rear differential features found in the Badlands, the Heritage Edition tackled icy inclines and snow-covered trails with confidence. The Continental touring tires provided unexpected grip, and the Slippery mode further enhanced traction in challenging conditions.
Beyond performance, the 1.5L engine offers a significant advantage in fuel economy. During my testing, the Heritage Edition averaged 29 MPG overall, a notable improvement over the 25.5 MPG I typically achieve in my 2.0L Badlands. For drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency, the 1.5L Ford Bronco Sport engine presents a clear economic benefit.
It’s important to acknowledge a potential concern associated with the 1.5L engine: reports of water pump issues. Some owners have experienced premature water pump failures, which is a factor to consider. While the 2.0L engine appears to be less prone to this problem, it’s worth researching and discussing with your Ford dealer. Furthermore, for the 2025 model year, Ford has removed the spare tire from 1.5-liter Bronco Sports, a decision that may be a deal-breaker for some buyers.
Ultimately, the “best” Ford Bronco Sport engine depends on individual priorities. The 2.0-liter engine offers undeniable power and performance for those seeking maximum capability and a more refined driving experience. However, the 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine is far from a compromise. It delivers surprising capability, engaging character, and improved fuel economy, making it a compelling option for many Bronco Sport buyers. Don’t automatically assume you need the top-tier engine; the 1.5L Ford Bronco Sport engine might just surprise you with its well-rounded performance and unique appeal.
