Ford Bronco vs. Bronco Sport Sasquatch (Badlands): Key Differences| Feature | Ford Bronco | Bronco Sport Badlands (aka Baby Bronco) |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Body-on-frame (like a truck/SUV) | Unibody (like a car/CUV) |
| 4WD System | Advanced 4WD w/ low-range transfer case | Twin-clutch AWD with G.O.A.T. Modes |
| Ground Clearance | ~11.5” with Sasquatch Package | ~8.8” (Badlands) |
| Tires | 35” mud-terrain (Sasquatch) | 29-30” all-terrain (or optional Falkens) |
| Approach/Departure Angles | Excellent (43.2°/37.0° with Sasquatch) | Good, but much less aggressive (~30°/33°) |
| Locking Differentials | Front and rear lockers (Sasquatch) | Rear twin-clutch torque vectoring (simulates lock) |
| Crawl Ratio | Up to 94.75:1 | Much lower; not true low-range gearing |
| Water Fording | ~33.5” | ~23.6” |
| Trail Capabilities | Rock crawling, high-speed desert, mud | Light rock crawling, trails, snow, sand |
| Price | Higher ($40K–$70K+ depending on trim) | Lower ($30K–$40K) |
Can the Bronco Sport Keep Up Off-Road?
Yes, but within limits. The Bronco Sport Badlands (often considered the "Baby Bronco") is surprisingly capable for a crossover. It can handle:
- Dirt trails
- Snow and sand
- Mild to moderate off-road tracks
- Water crossings under 2 feet
- Light rock gardens (with care)
However, it cannot keep up with the full-size Ford Bronco in:
- Rock crawling (no low-range transfer case)
- Deep mud and ruts (less ground clearance & articulation)
- High-speed desert driving (less suspension travel)
- Technical trails (no front locker or 35s)
Bottom Line
- Ford Bronco (Sasquatch): A true off-road beast built for serious terrain. Best for adventurers tackling Moab, Rubicon, and other technical trails.
- Bronco Sport Badlands: Great for weekend warriors, forest roads, beach driving, and light trail use. It punches above its weight, but it’s not a rock crawler.
Verdict: The Bronco Sport is not built to keep up with a full Bronco Sasquatch on hardcore trails, but it’s a solid and surprisingly capable crossover that’s perfect for 90% of what average drivers want off-road.