Ford Bronco Base versus Bronco Sport models

Ford Bronco Base vs Bronco Sport: Which is right for Alberta?

Choosing between the Ford Bronco Base and the Bronco Sport at Sherwood Ford 

Today, the team at Sherwood Ford is comparing the Ford Bronco Base vs the Bronco Sport, so you can find out which is right for Alberta. To keep things fair, we’re using the base trim level of both models, which is the Base model on the Bronco and the Big Bend model on the Bronco Sport. Below, you can check out a features and specifications comparison chart, frequently asked questions, and more before visiting our dealership in Sherwood Park, AB. 



Ford Bronco Base vs Bronco Sport Big Bend comparison 

Feature 

Ford Bronco Base 

Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 

Body Style 

2-door or 4-door SUV 

4-door compact SUV 

Engine 

2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 

1.5L EcoBoost® 

Horsepower 

300 hp 

180 hp 

Transmission 

7-speed manual or available 10-speed automatic 

8-speed automatic 

Standard Drivetrain 

4×4 

4×4 

G.O.A.T. Modes® 

5 

5 

Suspension 

HOSS 1.0 

HOSS 1.0 

Maximum Towing 

3,500 lbs 

2,700 lbs 

Off-Road Packages 

Available Sasquatch® Package 

Available Black Diamond® and Bronze + Black Diamond® Packages 

Touchscreen 

12-inch display 

13.2-inch touchscreen 

Driver Display 

12-inch digital cluster 

8-inch cluster display 

Seating 

Manual cloth seats 

Heated, easy-to-clean cloth seats 

Roof Options 

Removable hard or soft top 

Fixed roof 

Adventure Features 

Tow hooks, removable doors, and roof 

MOLLE Strap System, versatile cargo area 


Choose the Ford Bronco Base for serious Alberta adventures 

If your weekends include heading deep into the Rocky Mountains, exploring Crown land, or tackling Alberta’s toughest trails, the Bronco Base is built for the challenge. 

Its body-on-frame construction, available Sasquatch® Package, impressive ground clearance, and exceptional water fording capability make it one of the most capable factory-built off-road SUVs available today. 

Drivers who enjoy customizing their vehicle will also appreciate the removable doors and available hard or soft top. Whether you’re exploring the backcountry near Hinton or taking scenic drives through Kananaskis, the Bronco delivers a true open-air driving experience. 

The standard 300-horsepower EcoBoost® engine also provides significantly more power for highway passing, climbing mountain grades, and towing trailers up to 3,500 pounds. 


Choose the Bronco Sport Big Bend for everyday Alberta driving 

The Bronco Sport Big Bend offers impressive capability while remaining practical for everyday life around Sherwood Park and Edmonton. Its standard 4×4 system, HOSS suspension, and five G.O.A.T. Modes® allow it to confidently handle snowy highways, gravel roads, muddy campsites, and cottage roads throughout Alberta. 

Inside, the Bronco Sport leans toward comfort and technology. Heated front seats are especially appreciated during Alberta winters, while the large 13.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Autoâ„¢ keeps you connected wherever your adventures take you. 

The Bronco Sport also includes practical touches like easy-to-clean cloth upholstery and the MOLLE Strap System for organizing outdoor gear, tools, or camping equipment. 


Which Ford SUV handles Alberta winters better? 

Both models are excellent winter vehicles thanks to their standard four-wheel drive systems and selectable G.O.A.T. Modes®. 

The Bronco Base offers greater ground clearance and larger available tires, making it ideal for drivers who regularly encounter deep snow or unplowed roads. 

The Bronco Sport Big Bend shines during everyday winter commuting. Heated front seats, excellent visibility, compact dimensions, and confident handling make it a great choice for city driving, commuting in Edmonton, and weekend getaways. 


2026 Ford Bronco Base front view on white
2026 Ford Bronco Base
2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend model on white
2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend

Which Bronco offers better off-road capability? 

While both vehicles are surprisingly capable, the Bronco Base is the clear winner for dedicated off-road enthusiasts. 

Advantages include: 

  • Body-on-frame construction  
  • Available Sasquatch® Package  
  • Up to 11.6 inches of ground clearance  
  • Up to 33.5 inches of water fording  
  • Higher towing capacity  
  • More horsepower  

The Bronco Sport remains highly capable for most Alberta adventures, especially when equipped with the available Black Diamond® Off-Road Package featuring all-terrain tires and steel skid plates. 


Frequently asked questions 

Is the Ford Bronco bigger than the Bronco Sport? 

Yes. The Bronco is a midsize SUV available in both two-door and four-door configurations, while the Bronco Sport is a smaller compact SUV designed for everyday versatility. 

Which Bronco has more horsepower? 

The Bronco Base comes standard with a 300-horsepower 2.3L EcoBoost® engine. The Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L EcoBoost® engine producing 180 horsepower. 

Which Bronco can tow more? 

The Bronco Base can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Bronco Sport Big Bend has a maximum towing capacity of 2,700 pounds. 

Is the Bronco Sport good for Alberta winters? 

Standard 4×4, five G.O.A.T. Modes®, heated front seats, and excellent winter traction make the Bronco Sport an excellent SUV for Alberta driving conditions. 

Does the Bronco have a removable roof? 

Yes. The Bronco Base offers removable hard or soft top options, allowing drivers to enjoy open-air driving during Alberta’s warmer months. 

Which Bronco is better for off-roading? 

The Bronco Base is designed for more extreme off-road adventures thanks to its body-on-frame construction, higher ground clearance, greater water fording capability, and available Sasquatch® Package. 

Which Bronco is better for families? 

The Bronco Sport Big Bend is often the better choice for families because it offers a comfortable ride, practical cargo space, heated front seats, modern technology, and easy everyday drivability while still providing impressive off-road capability. 


Test drive the Ford Bronco or Bronco Sport near Edmonton 

The best way to decide between the Ford Bronco Base and Bronco Sport Big Bend is to experience both in person. 

At Sherwood Ford in Sherwood Park, we carry a wide selection of new Bronco and Bronco Sport models and can help you compare trim levels, available packages, financing options, and accessories. Whether you’re planning mountain adventures or simply need a capable SUV for Alberta’s changing weather, we’ll help you find the right Bronco for your lifestyle. 

Visit Sherwood Ford today to explore our latest Bronco inventory and schedule your test drive.