The launch of Ford’s Bronco, its highly anticipated Jeep Wrangler-like SUV, won’t likely happen until late this year. But there is already a Bronco-badged alternative at dealer lots: the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport. It’s related to Ford’s Escape crossover SUV but has more squared-off bodywork and enhanced off-roading capabilities.
Building an off-road-capable small SUV is something Subaru is familiar with. Its 2021 Forester is one of Edmunds’ top recommendations for a small SUV. It’s comfortable and well suited for adventurous drivers. Edmunds’ experts took both of these vehicles to the dirt and the highway to see which one comes out on top.
DRIVING EXPERIENCE
The optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower makes the Bronco Sport feel lively and punchy, and we recommend it over the base engine. Off-road, the Bronco Sport is impressively capable of tackling trails that would normally stymie a typical small crossover SUV. However, Ford seems to have tuned the steering, braking and transmission for off-road use. On the road, they feel vague and unrefined.
The Forester has only one engine available: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder making a ho-hum 182 horsepower. In contrast to the Bronco Sport, however, the Forester is smoother and more user-friendly when it comes to steering and braking. Off-road capability is a strength too. Subaru’s standard all-wheel-drive system excels in the dirt, and every Forester has an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Bronco Sport has a smidge more off-road capability but the Forester isn’t far behind.