Some SUVs wear a rugged appearance as a costume. However, a few small SUVs like the Ford Bronco Sport and Subaru Crosstrek really have the off-road chops to back up their adventurous aesthetics. Both come standard with all-wheel drive, and each has one trim that’s an especially capable off-roader.
Let’s take a closer look at the Ford Bronco Sport and Subaru Crosstrek and find the right subcompact SUV for you.
2024 Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport debuted alongside the resurrected Bronco in 2021. Dubbed by some the “baby Bronco,” the Bronco Sport brings a more road-friendly, car-like demeanor to the Bronco nameplate while retaining its rugged reputation. This is one of the best off-roaders in its class, especially in the Badlands trim. Pricing starts at $31,390, including the destination charge.
Ford Bronco Sport Highlights:
Turbo engines: The Ford Bronco Sport has two engine options, both of which are turbocharged. Its base turbo 3-cylinder engine has more power and torque than the base engine in the Crosstrek, and the turbo 4-cylinder in the Badlands trim has a muscular output of 250 horsepower.
Bigger interior: The Bronco Sport has a bit more backseat legroom and significantly more cargo space than the Crosstrek. The Ford has 32.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the back seats, and the Subaru only has 19.9 cubic feet of space.
Fun appearance packages: There’s no shortage of aesthetic personality in either of these SUVs, but the Heritage and Free Wheeling trims bring a particularly unique visual flair to the Bronco Sport. These are great if you want a practical SUV that stands out in traffic.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Bronco Sport models near you.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most popular options in the subcompact SUV class. It’s not hard to see why. It strikes an excellent balance of being a practical daily driver and a capable off-roader, wrapped in the quirky personality we love about Subaru. Naturally, all-wheel drive comes standard. Pricing starts at $26,540.
Subaru Crosstrek Highlights:
Affordable pricing: The Subaru Crosstrek is the more affordable option between these two SUVs by a considerable margin. In addition to the lower price tag, the Subaru has better EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings, even with the bigger engine option.
Wilderness trim: The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness turns up the off-road capability with more ground clearance, dual-function X-Mode, and all-terrain tires. It’s comparable to the Ford Bronco Sport Badlands but at a more affordable price point. It can also tow up to 3,500 pounds, besting the Bronco Sport’s max of 2,200 pounds.
Class-leading resale value: The Subaru Crosstrek is the reigning champion of our Best Resale Value Awards in the subcompact SUV class. This can save you significant money if you plan on trading in in a few years.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the Crosstrek models near you.
Similarities
Both SUVs come standard with all-wheel drive, which is crucial for all-season traction and off-road prowess. They also offer similar complements of safety and infotainment tech features.
Conclusion
As is often the case, the Subaru is the more value-conscious option here. It has a lower price tag, better fuel economy, and better resale value. However, if your budget allows it, the Ford Bronco Sport is roomier and has more potent engines and a little extra visual variety. The right SUV for you depends on your tastes and your budget.
| 2024 Ford Bronco Sport | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | |
| Starting Price | $31,390 | $26,540 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 1.5-liter turbo 3-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 181 hp @ 6,000 rpm | 152 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft @ 3,000 | 145 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic/AWD | CVT automatic/AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 25 city/29 highway/26 combined mpg | 27 city/34 highway/29 combined mpg |
| Also Available | 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 3 years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Warranty | 5-Star | 5-Star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 105.1 inches | 105.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 172.7 inches | 176.4 inches |
| Width | 74.3 inches | 70.9 inches |
| Height | 71.4 inches | 63 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 37.4 feet | 35.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 41.5 inches | 39.8 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 41.7 inches | 38 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.4 inches | 42.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 36.9 inches | 36.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 57.3 inches | 56.8 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 55.6 inches | 55.3 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 32.5/65.2 cubic feet | 19.9/54.7 cubic feet |
