2021 Ford Bronco Sport

Among Ford’s SUVs and pickups, the smallest options usually earn our highest ratings. Consumer Reports has recommended the Mustang Mach-E EV, the thrilling Mustang coupe and convertible, and the Maverick, a small pickup truck available with a hybrid powertrain. Most other vehicles, however, score low in our road tests and have average to below average reliability. With some exceptions, used Fords can be a risk. The Ford F-150 pickup combines true truck capabilities with quiet, roomy cabins, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. However, our tests found that recent F-150s have a stiff ride, unresponsive handling, and below average reliability. The Lightning, an EV version of the F-150, drives better and is faster than its gasoline equivalent. The Bronco SUVs has exceptional off-road ability and classic boxy styling, but suffers from issues like wind noise and long stopping distances.

The all-new 2021 Bronco Sport is aimed at small SUV buyers who have a penchant for off-road adventure. It’s based on the Escape, but increased ground clearance, a more serious four-wheel-drive system, and short overhangs make it a niche, rugged player in the small SUV segment. Lower trims come with a 181-hp, turbo three-cylinder engine, with higher trims getting a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder with 250 hp. An 8-speed automatic and four-wheel drive come standard. Inside, there’s an 8-inch touch screen for the Sync 3 infotainment system, with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Standard advanced driver assistance features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, lane keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. 2024 saw the introduction of a new Free Wheeling trim. For 2025, all trims come standard with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and Ford's Sync 4 infotainment system which includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A high performance Sasquatch off-road package is available on Badlands and Outer Banks trims. Horsepower dropped from 181 to 180 for the three-cylinder.