One Critic Called the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport A “Tarted-up Ford Escape”

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is a popular SUV that has been hard for buyers to get ahold of this summer. In fact, one early Ford buyer listed the Ford Bronco First Edition on eBay for $150,000 due to its popularity. That doesn’t mean everyone is a fan, though, like this one critic.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport keeps getting mixed reviews

2021 Ford Bronco Sport | Ford Motor Company

In a review by the Post Gazette, the author found the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport lacking in some areas. In a surprising revelation, the Sport was compared to a Honda CR-V or a Subaru Forester. When it came down to it, most critics were looking for more from the new Bronco. But the Bronco Sport has been dubbed the “baby Bronco,” so is this an unfair comparison?

Later, the review says, “The Bronco Sport is tough but rough and outclassed by much of the competition. And definitely don’t expect the cool new Bronco — or, at least, one presumes that the Bronco will be much better.” That seems to be the consensus thus far.

“The Bronco Sport is all-new for 2021, and it reminds me of a tarted-up Escape.” Comparing the legendary vehicle to a Ford Escape is one day to throw everyone off. In theory, the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport is an exciting new SUV, but it isn’t living up to the hype yet. Is it just a watered-down version of the regular 2021 Ford Bronco?

Consumer Reports had similar thoughts about the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

While drivers seem excited about the return of the Ford Bronco, Consumer Reports ranked it 13 out of 23 compact SUVs. It only racked up a 60 overall out of 100 for a score, and it currently has three open recalls. When it came down to the predicted reliability, Consumer Reports only gave the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport two out of five. The predicted owner satisfaction was a four out of five.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a loose or missing bolt in the suspension is causing issues. Another recall for the lower control arm is noted. Finally, a recall about the power train is listed from January. The NHTSA says that if the rear drive unit seizes, it could increase the risk of a crash.

Some of the highs noted by CR include the agility, braking, and character that the Sport offers. It also comes with a basic three-year, 36,000-mile warranty. Ford also includes five years, 60,000-miles for roadside assistance.

Edmunds offered a balanced review

Edmunds gave the Bronco Sport a well-balanced review. One of the main highlights was that the Bronco Sport was more capable on various terrains than an average SUV. It had some intelligent technology for everyday use and off-road adventures, plus lots of ways to customize it from the factory.

Edmunds noted that the Bronco Sport is based on the Ford Escape, an interesting tidbit. The Sport is supposed to be a more affordable and road-friendly version of the regular Bronco, which it achieves. The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport still has a lot to offer buyers when it comes down to it. Even if not everyone agrees, Ford made a pretty cool SUV with some off-road capabilities that not all vehicles can match.

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