2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks Review

You know that feeling when you see a vehicle that looks tough and ready for anything, but wonder if it’s actually worth the price tag?

I’ve spent years reviewing trucks and SUVs. I’ve taken them through mud, over rocks, and on long highway drives.

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks caught my eye with its retro style and big promises about off-road fun. I wanted to see if it lives up to the hype, especially when you compare it to rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek or Kia Seltos.

The Bronco Sport looks sharp and handles trails better than most crossovers. But that 1.5L turbo engine feels underwhelming for what you’re paying, and the fuel economy lags behind competitors. According to a 2025 report by MotorTrend, the base engine hits 60 mph (96 km/h) in about 8.6 seconds, which isn’t terrible but won’t pin you back in your seat either.

I’ll walk you through the real-world performance, the packages that can push your price past $50,000, and whether Ford nailed it or missed the mark with this small SUV. Let’s dig into what matters before you sign on the dotted line.

2025 Ford Bronco Sport Canadian Prices

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport comes in a variety of trims, and those trims can be further customized with additional packages. Below are the Canadian prices for each trim.

Our review vehicle was the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks with the Sasquatch package ($4,995), Power Moonroof ($900), Front & Rear Splash Guards ($165), Sasquatch Graphics Package ($745), Cargo Management System ($225), and Outer Banks Tech Package ($2,495). Freight & PDI is an additional $2,195. The total MSRP for our review vehicle was $55,015, which does not include taxes.

Engine and Performance

The Ford Bronco Sport gives you two engine choices, both turbocharged. The standard setup is a three-cylinder that does the job around town.

The upgrade brings a four-cylinder with more punch for passing and towing.

Standard all-wheel drive and smart tech like start/stop help balance power with efficiency. But I’ll be honest, the base engine leaves you wanting more when merging onto highways or climbing steep grades.

1.5L Turbocharged Three-Cylinder Engine

Pop the hood and you’ll find a 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder engine. It churns out 180 horses and 200 pound-feet of torque.

That sounds decent on paper.

Ford pairs it with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly most of the time. The same motor powers the Escape and Maverick, so Ford clearly trusts this powertrain across multiple models.

According to Car and Driver’s 2025 testing, this engine hits 60 mph in 8.6 seconds. That’s not slow, but it’s not quick either. I’ve driven it, and the turbo lag is noticeable when you mash the accelerator from a standstill.

The EPA rates fuel economy at 25 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for 2025. Consumer Reports got 25 mpg overall in real-world testing with their Outer Banks model. That’s competitive with some rivals, but the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid destroys it with 42 mpg combined.

Paying $50,000-plus for a three-cylinder feels odd when rivals offer more refinement at similar prices.

Want more power? The bigger EcoBoost is up next.

Optional 2.0L EcoBoost Engine

This 2.0L EcoBoost is a different beast. It pumps out 238 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, though Ford did drop the horsepower from 250 in 2024.

The eight-speed automatic transmission handles the power well. Shifts are crisp and the paddle shifters let you take control when you want it.

The Outer Banks trim gets this turbocharged engine as an option. According to MotorTrend’s 2025 testing, the Badlands with the 2.0L hits sixty in about 6.5 seconds. That’s a massive improvement over the base engine.

Fuel economy drops to 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. The Badlands Sasquatch model gets the same numbers despite the extra weight from beefier tires and suspension.

If you want true off-road power like that found in the Sasquatch Package, this bigger EcoBoost delivers. The torque shines when crawling over rocks or powering through deep mud. Ford Trail Control and the locking rear differential work best with this engine’s low-end grunt.

Related: Ford Bronco Wildtrack Review

Off-Road Capabilities

This Bronco Sport tackles dirt trails with confidence. The ground clearance and all-terrain tires keep you rolling where other crossovers get stuck.

I took one through rocky creek beds and muddy backroads. It impressed me more than I expected for a vehicle based on the Escape platform.

Sasquatch Package Features

Want serious off-road muscle? The Sasquatch package is new for 2025 and it’s a game-changer. Here’s what gets my attention:

1. Twin-clutch rear-drive unit with a locking rear differential gives you extra grip for tough trails and slick mud. This is crucial for high-torque power delivery.
2. Ride height jumps up by 0.6 inches on the Outer Banks (1.6 inches on Badlands). I clear more debris and rocks without scraping the undercarriage.
3. 29-inch Goodyear Territory RT all-terrain tires on 17-inch black aluminum wheels. According to Ford’s 2025 specs, these are the largest tires available in the class. They bite through snow and scramble over rocky creek beds without breaking a sweat.
4. Factory steel skid plates shield vital parts from rough hits. No worries when you punch through brush or smack against sharp gravel.
5. The HOSS suspension system makes bumps feel like pebbles. The Badlands Sasquatch gets upgraded Bilstein rear shocks with position-sensitive damping that Motor1 praised for being “far smoother” than standard setups.
6. High-clearance fender flares let those beefy tires travel further. You get better articulation for rutted backroads.
7. Roof rack and brush guard add classic explorer vibes. Plus real function when stacking gear or pushing through sticks.
8. Rally mode lets you toggle drive modes fast. This addition helps you tear across sand and loose dirt at speed.
9. Water fording depth hits 23.6 inches with the Sasquatch package. That beats most compact SUVs.

The Outer Banks Sasquatch costs $4,995 but requires the Tech Package first (another $2,495).

Related: Ford Bronco Badlands Review

G.O.A.T. Modes® (Goes Over Any Terrain)

Seven G.O.A.T. Modes® come standard on this Bronco Sport. I use them often.

Normal works for city drives. Eco tries to squeeze out better MPGs when gas prices spike. Sport makes a Monday commute feel like a quick run in a hot hatch.

Slippery takes over during rain or snow with traction control dialed up. Off-Road and Rock Crawl set the SUV up for mud, sand, twists, or gravel roads by adjusting four-wheel drive lock and Advancetrac roll stability control.

Rally mode brings extra grit for wild terrain. Think all-terrain tires digging into dirt without missing a beat. The Badlands and Sasquatch models get this mode, which Edmunds called “a laugh” when they tested it on a dirt autocross course in 2025.

In off-road mode, my display turns green. The front camera pops on so I can see those tricky departure angles ahead of the bumper. One-pedal driving helps crawl steep spots without riding the brake pedal constantly.

Ford trail control acts as cruise control for trails. Set it at 2 mph and let sensors do their thing over rocks or ruts. It’s like having a copilot who never gets tired.

Interior and Technology

Climbing inside, the big 13.2-inch screen grabs your eye. It makes Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto feel smooth.

The cabin has a practical vibe with easy-to-clean seats. You’ll find good storage for muddy boots or snacks on the road.

13.2″ Touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™

The 2025 Bronco Sport Outer Banks comes standard with a huge 13.2-inch touchscreen running the Ford Sync 4 system. This is a big upgrade from the old 8.0-inch screen.

I get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without fussing with cords.

The system responds fast. No waiting around while my coffee gets cold. A shortcut bar puts controls for climate, heated seats, and the heated steering wheel one tap away.

Full-screen navigation is easy to see. The graphics pop in bright color whether day or night. The optional Bang & Olufsen stereo system with 10 speakers steps up music quality for road trips.

A standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster sits next to the main screen. It displays everything from fuel economy stats to adaptive cruise control settings at a glance. USB ports and a wireless charging pad keep devices happy all day long.

Use of Interior Materials and Space

Sturdy fabrics and some soft-touch surfaces fill the Bronco Sport. Mud or messes don’t stand a chance.

Stitched door panels give it a tough feel. Leather-trimmed and cloth seats are easy to wipe down after a day on the trail. I get built-in lumbar support in my front seat, which saves my back during long drives.

But here’s the catch: hard plastic covers most surfaces. Consumer Reports noted in their 2024 review that the three-cylinder engine’s vibrations at low RPMs become more noticeable because there’s not much sound insulation. The plastic-heavy interior doesn’t do much to dampen road noise either.

Cargo space pulls its weight. With 32.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 65.2 cubes when folded flat, I toss in coolers or tools with zero hassle. That beats the Subaru Crosstrek’s 19.9 cubic feet by a wide margin.

The rear window opens by itself for quick access. No need to swing open that heavy tailgate every time I want something small from inside. USB outlets in the back row keep phones charged while storage pockets swallow maps and gear.

Pros of the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks

This Ford Bronco Sport packs serious off-road capability with smart tech. I get a cool retro look and handy features like an opening rear window.

The standard 13.2-inch screen is bigger than what you’ll find in most rivals at this price point.

Strong Off-Road Performance

Bronco Sport Outer Banks handles rough ground with ease. The Sasquatch package brings a dual-clutch rear unit for better grip even on loose dirt or mud.

There’s more lift with up to 1.6 inches higher ride height on the Badlands. That means it clears rocks without scraping the underbody. Water fording at 23.6 inches lets me cross creeks that would stop other SUVs cold.

Seven G.O.A.T. Modes let me pick sand, mud, snow, slippery roads, or normal driving with a turn of a dial. HOSS suspension keeps each tire steady on ruts or bumps. Steel skid plates protect key parts like the fuel tank and engine from hidden trouble below the surface.

One-pedal drive lets my foot control both speed and braking. I can crawl over tight rocks without sweating it out. Ford Trail Control works as slow-speed cruise control off-road, helping keep focus ahead instead of worrying about throttle and brakes.

A 360-degree camera system gives a real-time look at blind corners. This feature now stays active at higher speeds for 2025, which PickupTruckTalk praised during their July 2025 test drive. It saves my bumper from surprise damage on narrow trails.

Retro-Inspired Design

Circular headlights and the big white Bronco logo stare back at me. They bring memories of old-school SUVs right to my driveway.

The Outer Banks trim rocks beefy fender flares, a classic badge, and bold two-tone body paint. That red color option pops against the blacked-out roof or raised hood.

Boxy lines give a shoutout to early Bronco sport models. White roof accents from the Heritage trim add even more nostalgia. Modern touches like black wheels keep things fresh.

This isn’t just style for show. It looks ready to hit rugged trails with all-terrain tires or park outside any steakhouse without missing a beat.

Convenient Features Like the Opening Rear Window

The rear gate on my Bronco Sport Outer Banks comes with a glass hatch that swings open without the tailgate. This makes it easy to toss in groceries, gear, or muddy boots.

I hit the button on my key fob and pop just the glass. No need to drop everything I’m hauling. The bottle opener built into the hatch has come in handy more than once after long day trips.

Keypad entry means I can lock up and hike off without juggling keys. Push-button start is quick and smooth each morning.

Four auxiliary switches sit ready for extra lights or trail tools. Perfect for nighttime adventures or adding gadgets down the line. Utility gets another boost from recovery points and a receiver hitch at back, which help when towing ATVs or helping out friends stuck in deep mud.

Cons of the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks

Some things about the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks might surprise you. These drawbacks could make you pause before hitting the trails.

Limited Rear Seat Space

Rear legroom in the Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks measures 36.9 inches. That’s less than what you get in the Subaru Crosstrek at 36.5 inches, and way behind the Honda CR-V.

The boxy shape gives decent headroom. But that doesn’t help much if your knees end up pressed against the seat in front of you on a long drive.

I find it snug for adults. It’s even more cramped if you’re tall or have broad shoulders. Fitting a car seat back there works, yet squeezing three grown men across feels like packing sardines.

Consumer Reports noted in their 2024 test that “knee room is a little snug” even though rear-seat headroom is generous. The focus on off-road capability with all-terrain tires and G.O.A.T. Modes makes me think comfort rides shotgun here rather than driving upfront.

Kids will be fine most days. Grown-ups may start grumbling before leaving city limits. Space for cargo holds up well, but rear seating can’t match rivals for stretch-out room.

Plastic-Heavy Interior

Limited rear seat space isn’t the only gripe I found inside the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks. Once you settle in, hard plastic covers most surfaces from door panels to the instrument panel.

Even with some soft-touch spots thrown in, it’s still clear this is a plastic-heavy interior. If you compare it to a Lincoln or even rivals with more premium vibes, the difference is obvious.

The bold dash design and big 13.2-inch touchscreen try to draw your eyes away from all that plastic. Tech perks like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go keep things feeling modern.

But no denying that heavy use of plastics stands out next to these upgrades. TheCarConnection noted in their December 2024 review that “lots of hard plastics on door and dash components expose its utilitarian spirit.” It looks cool at first glance. Up close though, that budget feel sneaks back in.

Below-Average Fuel Economy

The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks sips more fuel than I’d like. The 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder engine gets between 23 and 25 mpg in the city, then about 26 to 28 mpg on the highway.

That falls short of top rivals in the subcompact SUV segment.

Upgrading to the punchier 2.0L EcoBoost drops those numbers to just 21 mpg city and up to 27 mpg highway. According to MotorTrend’s June 2025 report, the new Sasquatch package on the Outer Banks trim “chopping 2 to 4 mpg off its various numbers” due to the twin-clutch rear differential and bigger tires.

That boxy body and chunky all-terrain tires may look cool for off-roading. They drag down efficiency once I hit open roads. The Subaru Crosstrek delivers 28 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid blows past both with an EPA-estimated 45 mpg city and 38 mpg highway.

Lower fuel economy isn’t just a minor detail. It takes a bite out of value compared to the competition, especially when gas prices spike.

Ford Bronco Sport – The Baby Off-Roader

Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks packs strong off-road capability with high-tech features like wireless Apple CarPlay and a cool retro style. The new Sasquatch package brings 29-inch all-terrain tires and serious hardware.

With G.O.A.T. Modes, it handles muddy trails well.

But it struggles with rear seat space and a plastic-heavy trim for its $36,000-plus price tag. The 1.5L engine feels underwhelming, and fuel economy lags behind the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid by nearly 20 mpg combined.

If you want adventure and can live with the compromises, this ride delivers. Take one for a spin before buying. The basics matter most in a subcompact SUV that tries hard to stand out.

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