The compact SUV segment is buzzing with the arrival of the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2025 Subaru Forester. These two vehicles offer impressive features and options. If you’re weighing the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport vs. the Subaru Forester, this comparison breaks down what each has to offer and highlights why the Bronco Sport stands out.
Comparing the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Forester
Choosing between the Ford Bronco Sport and Subaru Forester depends on what you value in an SUV. If you’re after an exciting drive and off-road potential, the Bronco Sport is ready to tackle the toughest terrain. The Forester offers a comfortable ride with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard. Both SUVs bring reliability, but the 2025 Bronco Sport edges out its competitor in several critical areas.
Design and Style
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport maintains the bold, retro-inspired design that reflects the iconic Bronco lineage. Its boxy shape, prominent grille, and round headlights create a distinctive, adventure-ready aesthetic. Ford has added colors such as Azure Gray and Desert Sand, enhancing the Bronco Sport’s appeal. The rugged exterior features roof rails and ample body cladding, projecting an image of durability.
Upper trims such as the Badlands and Outer Banks Sasquatch models showcase modular bumpers, front tow hooks, skid plates, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in 29-inch all-terrain tires. The aggressive stance and raised suspension ensure that the Bronco Sport not only looks the part but can also handle off-road challenges with ease.
The Forester receives subtle design updates for 2025, with more squared-off wheel wells and a bulkier appearance. The exterior design feels practical but lacks the flair of the Bronco Sport. The Forester’s new dashboard design, while functional, appears oversized and less refined than previous models.
The Subaru Forester continues to prioritize function over form, which might appeal to drivers looking for simplicity. However, for those seeking an eye-catching design, the Forester feels understated compared to the bold Bronco Sport.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport comes with two engine options. The base model is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder producing 180 horsepower. For those craving more power, a 238-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder is available. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 2.0-liter engine offers steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and upgraded cooling components, providing a more dynamic driving experience. The top-tier Badlands trim features a twin-clutch rear-drive unit with a differential lock for superior off-road performance. Sasquatch-equipped models add all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and enhanced suspension for added capability.
Performance-wise, the Outer Banks model with the base engine reaches 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. With the more powerful 2.0-liter engine, the Bronco Sport achieves the same mark in a brisk 5.9 seconds.
The Forester is equipped with a 2.5-liter flat-four engine delivering 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable transmission and AWD come standard. While reliable, the Forester’s performance is more focused on smoothness and comfort rather than excitement.
In terms of acceleration, the Subaru Forester Sport takes about 8.3 seconds to reach 60 mph, making it slower than both engine options available in the Bronco Sport. The Forester’s handling is competent but less engaging, with minimal steering feedback and a suspension tuned primarily for comfort.
Technology and Connectivity
Ford has equipped the Bronco Sport with advanced technology to enhance the driving experience. A 13.2-inch touch screen with Ford’s SYNC 4 software comes standard, alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and in-dash navigation are included, ensuring seamless connectivity.
Optional features include a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, wireless device charging, and HD Radio. These additions transform the Bronco Sport into a tech-savvy SUV that caters to modern drivers who value convenience and entertainment on the go.
The Subaru Forester also offers a solid suite of technology, with an 11.6-inch touch screen standard on most trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an available wireless charging pad, are other notable features. However, base models are limited to dual 7-inch screens, which feel dated compared to the Bronco Sport’s larger, more sophisticated displays.
While Subaru’s system is functional, it can be sluggish at times. The Harman Kardon audio upgrade provides excellent sound quality, but the overall tech package doesn’t quite match the Bronco Sport’s cutting-edge offerings.
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Fuel efficiency is a strong point for both SUVs. The Forester achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, slightly outperforming the Bronco Sport’s 25 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with the three-cylinder engine. However, the more powerful four-cylinder Bronco Sport sees a dip to 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Ford has focused on minimizing the environmental impact of the Bronco Sport through innovative engine technology, making it a more sustainable option for adventure seekers.
Cargo Space, Seating, and Comfort
The Bronco Sport offers 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 65.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. This provides ample room for gear, and the vehicle’s boxy design allows for easy loading of bulky items. Seating for five is standard, with ample headroom in both rows. While rear legroom isn’t class-leading, the Bronco Sport provides sufficient space for two adults to sit comfortably on shorter trips.
The Forester delivers slightly less cargo space behind the rear seats at 29.6 cubic feet but excels with 74.4 cubic feet when the seats are folded. The rear legroom is generous, making it one of the more spacious options in the class.
Safety Ratings and Reliability
The 2025 Bronco Sport has earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Standard driver-assistance features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
While the 2025 Subaru Forester also includes Subaru’s EyeSight suite of safety features, its overall safety rating is not yet available, leaving the Bronco Sport as the more proven choice in terms of safety.
Why Choose the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport?
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport stands out in this car comparison, delivering more power, better off-road capabilities, and advanced technology. While the Forester offers practicality and comfort, the Bronco Sport’s combination of performance, design, and features makes it the ultimate choice for drivers seeking adventure and style. Visit our team at John Kennedy Ford of Pottstown to explore the Ford Bronco Sport inventory or schedule a test-drive online. Contact us to discover the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport and see why it stands out in the Bronco Sport vs Forester comparison.
Image from ford.com
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