2022 Ford Bronco Sport 4-Door: Review & Specs

by Alex Braham 46 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport 4-Door. This compact SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know. From its rugged design to its off-road capabilities and everyday practicality, we’ll cover it all. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is designed to blend the adventurous spirit of the classic Bronco with the practicality needed for daily life. Ford has successfully carved out a niche for this vehicle, positioning it as a smaller, more accessible sibling to the full-sized Bronco. It's built on a different platform than the Bronco, sharing its underpinnings with the Ford Escape, but don't let that fool you – it still packs a punch when it comes to capability and style.

One of the key highlights is its standard four-wheel-drive (4WD), making it a competent choice for those who encounter challenging weather conditions or enjoy light off-roading. The Bronco Sport also boasts a range of trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. Whether you're looking for a basic, no-frills adventure vehicle or a more luxurious and tech-filled ride, there's likely a Bronco Sport model that fits your needs. The design cues, like the safari-style roof and distinctive grille, pay homage to its iconic predecessor while maintaining a modern and appealing aesthetic. It’s a vehicle that stands out in the crowded compact SUV market, offering a blend of ruggedness and refinement that appeals to a wide range of drivers.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specs that make the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport a standout in its class. Understanding these details will give you a clearer picture of what this SUV has to offer.

Engine Options

The 2022 Bronco Sport comes with two engine options:

  • 1.5-Liter EcoBoost Inline-3: This turbocharged engine produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It’s the standard engine for the base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims. It provides ample power for everyday driving and is quite fuel-efficient.
  • 2.0-Liter EcoBoost Inline-4: Found in the Badlands trim, this engine cranks out 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The increased power makes it more suitable for off-roading and more spirited driving.

Transmission

Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifts. The transmission is well-tuned to the engines, offering a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance.

Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)

As mentioned earlier, 4WD is standard across all Bronco Sport trims. The system varies slightly depending on the trim level.

  • The base models feature a standard 4WD system that automatically engages when needed.
  • The Badlands trim gets an advanced 4WD system with a twin-clutch rear drive unit. This system can send torque to a single rear wheel, providing enhanced traction in challenging conditions. It also includes a G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) Modes system with selectable drive modes like Sand, Slippery, Sport, Eco, and Normal.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the Bronco Sport offers a practical and well-designed cabin. Key features include:

  • Infotainment: An 8-inch touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless smartphone integration.
  • Safety: Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
  • Comfort: Available features like heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Dimensions and Cargo Space

The Bronco Sport is compact but offers a surprising amount of interior space.

  • Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
  • Length: 172.7 inches
  • Width: 74.3 inches
  • Height: 71.4 to 71.5 inches (depending on the trim)
  • Cargo Space: Behind the second row, you get around 32.5 cubic feet of space, which expands to 65.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and capabilities. Let's take a closer look at what each trim has to offer.

Base

The base trim is the entry-level model and provides a solid foundation of features.

  • Engine: 1.5-liter EcoBoost
  • Key Features: 4WD, 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3, Ford Co-Pilot360, and cloth seats.
  • Ideal For: Buyers looking for an affordable and capable SUV with essential features.

Big Bend

The Big Bend trim adds more comfort and convenience features.

  • Engine: 1.5-liter EcoBoost
  • Key Features: Adds easy-to-clean cloth seats, carbonized gray grille, and available options like a sunroof and roof rack.
  • Ideal For: Those wanting a few extra amenities without breaking the bank.

Outer Banks

The Outer Banks trim focuses on adding a touch of luxury and style.

  • Engine: 1.5-liter EcoBoost
  • Key Features: Leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and unique exterior styling elements.
  • Ideal For: Buyers looking for a more upscale experience with added comfort features.

Badlands

The Badlands trim is the most off-road-oriented model.

  • Engine: 2.0-liter EcoBoost
  • Key Features: Advanced 4WD system with twin-clutch rear drive unit, G.O.A.T. Modes, off-road suspension, and metal bash plates.
  • Ideal For: Adventurers who want a capable off-roader right from the factory.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport offers a balanced driving experience that caters to both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The choice between the two available engines significantly impacts the vehicle's overall performance, so let's break it down.

On-Road Performance

For everyday driving, the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine provides sufficient power for most situations. Acceleration is adequate for city and highway driving, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and errands. The 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and timely shifts, contributing to a comfortable ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a pleasant driving experience on paved roads.

However, if you frequently find yourself needing more power for merging onto highways or tackling steep inclines, you might find the 1.5-liter engine slightly lacking. In such cases, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in the Badlands trim offers a noticeable improvement in performance. It delivers quicker acceleration and more robust power, making it a more confident choice for those who prioritize performance.

Off-Road Capability

The Bronco Sport's off-road prowess is where it truly shines, especially in the Badlands trim. The advanced 4WD system with the twin-clutch rear drive unit provides exceptional traction on loose surfaces, allowing you to confidently tackle trails and uneven terrain. The G.O.A.T. Modes system further enhances off-road capability by optimizing the vehicle's settings for various types of terrain, such as sand, mud, and rocks.

The Badlands trim also features an off-road-tuned suspension that provides increased ground clearance and improved articulation, allowing the Bronco Sport to navigate obstacles with ease. The metal bash plates offer added protection for the underbody, shielding critical components from damage when traversing rough terrain. While it's not as extreme as the full-sized Bronco, the Bronco Sport is surprisingly capable off-road, making it a great choice for adventurous individuals who enjoy exploring beyond the pavement.

Handling and Steering

The Bronco Sport offers responsive steering and predictable handling, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and around corners. The compact dimensions of the vehicle contribute to its agility, allowing it to navigate urban environments with ease. The steering feel is well-weighted, providing a good sense of connection to the road.

Overall, the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport strikes a good balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring remote trails, this SUV offers a versatile and enjoyable driving experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport.

Pros

  • Standard Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Provides enhanced traction and capability in various driving conditions.
  • Rugged Styling: Eye-catching design that sets it apart from other compact SUVs.
  • User-Friendly Technology: Easy-to-use infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Available Off-Road Capability: Badlands trim offers impressive off-road performance with advanced 4WD and G.O.A.T. Modes.
  • Practical Interior: Well-designed cabin with ample cargo space and comfortable seating.

Cons

  • Base Engine Can Feel Underpowered: The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine may feel lacking for some drivers, especially when fully loaded or driving uphill.
  • Fuel Economy: While decent, the fuel economy is not class-leading compared to some competitors.
  • Higher Trims Can Be Pricey: The Badlands and Outer Banks trims can get expensive with added options.
  • Ride Quality: The ride can be a bit firm, especially on rough roads, which may not appeal to everyone.

Final Verdict

The 2022 Ford Bronco Sport 4-Door is a compelling option in the compact SUV market. It successfully blends rugged styling, practical features, and available off-road capability into a well-rounded package. Whether you're looking for a daily commuter or a weekend adventure vehicle, the Bronco Sport has something to offer.

If you prioritize off-road performance, the Badlands trim is the way to go, with its advanced 4WD system and G.O.A.T. Modes. However, if you're primarily interested in a comfortable and stylish daily driver, the Big Bend or Outer Banks trims may be a better fit.

Ultimately, the 2022 Ford Bronco Sport is a versatile and capable SUV that stands out from the crowd. Its unique blend of features and capabilities makes it a worthy contender in the competitive compact SUV segment. So, if you're in the market for a vehicle that can handle both city streets and rugged trails, the Bronco Sport is definitely worth considering. Happy driving, guys!