Bronco Sport Towing Capacity: How Much Can This Compact SUV Tow?

Sarah Khan
Sarah Khan
9 min read

Review by: Sarah Khan
Towing Tips

The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that combines rugged capability with impressive towing prowess, making it an ideal choice for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. This versatile vehicle is designed to tackle your hauling needs with confidence, thanks to its robust powertrain options, advanced towing features, and versatile cargo space. In this comprehensive article, we'll delve into the Bronco Sport's towing capacity specifications, performance and capability features, cargo and storage solutions, safety technologies, trim level comparisons, and real-world use cases, providing you with expert tips and best practices along the way.

I. Towing Capacity Specifications

The Bronco Sport's towing capabilities are a testament to its versatility and power. With two engine options and a range of advanced towing features, this compact SUV is ready to haul your gear and equipment with ease.

At the heart of the Bronco Sport's towing prowess lies its powerful engine choices. The base engine is a 1.5L EcoBoost 3-cylinder unit, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. This configuration delivers a maximum towing capacity of up to 2,000 pounds, well-suited for hauling small trailers, utility trailers, or lightweight recreational equipment.

EngineTowing Capacity
1.5L EcoBoost 3-cylinderUp to 2,000 lbs
2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinderUp to 2,200 lbs

For those seeking even more muscle, the available 2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine can tow up to an impressive 2,200 pounds when properly equipped. This higher towing capacity opens up a wider range of possibilities, allowing you to haul larger trailers, small boats, or even compact travel trailers with ease.

Towing Package for Enhanced Capabilities

To unlock the full towing potential of the Bronco Sport, Ford offers the Class II Trailer Tow Package. This comprehensive package includes several components that enhance the vehicle's towing capabilities:

  • Trailer wiring harness

  • Hitch receiver

  • Front tow hooks

  • Trailer sway control

  • Lane-keeping alert

The trailer wiring harness and hitch receiver ensure seamless trailer connections, while the front tow hooks provide added recovery points when off-roading. The trailer sway control and lane-keeping alert work in tandem to provide added stability and control when hauling a trailer, helping maintain trailer stability and keeping your vehicle and trailer centered in the lane.

Performance and Capability Features

Beyond its towing capacity, the Bronco Sport boasts a range of performance and capability features that make it a formidable towing companion. Standard all-wheel drive ensures optimal traction and control, while the Terrain Management System with up to seven G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) allows you to tackle various off-road conditions with ease.

The Badlands trim takes things a step further with an enhanced all-wheel-drive system, a twin-clutch rear-drive unit, and a 1.0-inch suspension lift for improved ground clearance and off-road prowess. Additionally, features like the available Rock Crawl and Mud/Ruts modes and water-fording capability of up to 23.6 inches ensure that no terrain is off-limits, even when towing.

Terrain Management SystemDescription
G.O.A.T. ModesUp to 7 modes for various terrain conditions
Rock Crawl ModeOptimized for navigating over rocky surfaces
Mud/Ruts ModeDesigned for muddy or rutted terrain
Water-fording CapabilityUp to 23.6 inches of water-fording depth

Cargo and Storage Solutions for Hauling Gear

When it comes to hauling gear and supplies, the Bronco Sport offers ample cargo space to accommodate your needs. With the second-row seats folded flat, you can enjoy up to 65.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, making it easy to accommodate larger items or multiple pieces of equipment.

This generous cargo capacity allows you to pack everything you need for your outdoor adventures, whether you're hauling camping gear, sports equipment, or home improvement supplies. The versatile cargo area ensures that you can bring along all the essentials without compromising on space or comfort.

In addition to its ample cargo volume, the Bronco Sport features innovative storage solutions that enhance its hauling capabilities:

  • Safari-style roof design for extra headroom

  • Slide-out table in the cargo area

  • Underseat storage bin

  • Cargo Management System

The safari-style roof design provides extra headroom, allowing you to stack and organize your gear more efficiently. The slide-out table in the cargo area is a convenient feature that can serve as a workspace or a platform for organizing and accessing your gear. The underseat storage bin and Cargo Management System further contribute to the vehicle's storage versatility, helping you keep your belongings secure and organized during your adventures.

Towing Safety and Driver-Assist Technologies

Safety is a top priority when towing, and the Bronco Sport delivers with its suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. The Ford Co-Pilot 360™ system includes features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane-Keeping System, providing an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

Ford Co-Pilot 360™ System

  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking

  • Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert

  • Lane-Keeping System

The Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes automatically if necessary, helping to mitigate or avoid accidents. The Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the sides when backing up, ensuring you have a comprehensive view of your surroundings.

The Lane-Keeping System helps keep your vehicle centered in the lane, reducing the risk of unintentional lane drifting, which can be particularly crucial when towing a trailer.

Trailer Sway Control

Trailer sway can be a significant concern when towing, especially in windy conditions or during sudden maneuvers. The Bronco Sport's Trailer Sway Control system helps maintain trailer stability by selectively applying brakes and adjusting engine power, ensuring a smooth and controlled towing experience.

Lane-Keeping Alert

In addition to the Lane-Keeping System, the Bronco Sport also features a Lane-Keeping Alert. This system assists in keeping your vehicle and trailer centered in the lane, providing visual and audible alerts if you start to drift out of your lane. This feature can be particularly helpful when towing, as it helps you maintain control and stay on course, even with the added weight and length of a trailer.

Trim Level Comparisons and Competitor Analysis

The Bronco Sport offers several trim levels to cater to different towing needs and preferences. The Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Heritage trims are equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine and can tow up to 2,000 pounds with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.

Trim LevelEngineTowing Capacity
Base1.5L EcoBoostUp to 2,000 lbs
Big Bend1.5L EcoBoostUp to 2,000 lbs
Outer Banks1.5L EcoBoostUp to 2,000 lbs
Heritage1.5L EcoBoostUp to 2,000 lbs

For those seeking maximum towing capability, the Badlands trim is the ultimate choice, featuring the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and a towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds when properly equipped with the Class II Trailer Tow Package. This trim also boasts enhanced off-road capabilities, making it an ideal choice for adventurers who need to haul their gear over rugged terrain.

When compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the Bronco Sport stands out with its impressive towing capabilities. Its maximum towing capacity of 2,200 pounds surpasses many competitors, making it an attractive option for those with hauling needs.

While some rivals may offer slightly higher towing capacities, the Bronco Sport's combination of towing prowess, off-road capability, and cargo versatility make it a well-rounded choice for those seeking an adventure-ready vehicle that can handle their hauling requirements with ease.

Real-World Use Cases and Expert Tips

The Bronco Sport's towing capabilities open up a world of possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Whether you're hauling a small boat for a weekend on the lake, towing a utility trailer for home improvement projects, or transporting camping gear for an off-road excursion, the Bronco Sport has you covered.

Its versatile cargo space and innovative storage solutions also make it an ideal companion for hauling sports equipment, such as bicycles or kayaks, ensuring that your gear is secure and easily accessible. With its impressive towing capacity and off-road capabilities, the Bronco Sport can take you and your gear to remote locations, enabling you to explore the great outdoors without compromising on comfort or convenience.

To ensure a safe and efficient towing experience with your Bronco Sport, it's essential to follow expert tips and best practices:

  • Proper load distribution in your trailer, with approximately 60% of the weight in the front half and 40% in the rear, helps maintain proper weight balance and improves handling and stability.

  • Regular tire pressure checks and adjustments are crucial, as underinflated or overinflated tires can compromise traction and handling, potentially leading to dangerous situations when towing.

  • Practice backing up and maneuvering with your trailer in an open area before hitting the road to become familiar with the trailer's movements and improve your confidence in handling the combined vehicle and trailer.

  • Utilize the Bronco Sport's towing features, such as Trailer Sway Control and Lane-Keeping Alert, to enhance stability and control.

  • Regularly inspect and maintain your trailer's brakes, lights, and electrical connections to ensure they are functioning properly and comply with local regulations.

  • When towing in hilly or mountainous terrain, consider a vehicle with a higher towing rating to account for the added strain on the engine and transmission. The Bronco Sport's available 2.0L EcoBoost engine can provide the extra power needed for these challenging conditions.

Conclusion

The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact SUV that delivers big on adventure and hauling prowess. With its impressive towing capabilities, advanced towing features, and versatile cargo space, this vehicle is ready to tackle your towing needs with confidence and style. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, DIY enthusiast, or simply seeking a capable and reliable towing companion, the Bronco Sport is an excellent choice that combines rugged capability with modern convenience and safety features.

FAQs

What is the maximum towing capacity of the Ford Bronco Sport?

The Ford Bronco Sport has a maximum towing capacity of 2,200 pounds when equipped with the available 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package.

Does the Bronco Sport come with a towing package?

Yes, Ford offers the Class II Trailer Tow Package for the Bronco Sport, which includes a trailer wiring harness, hitch receiver, front tow hooks, trailer sway control, and lane-keeping alert.

What are the G.O.A.T. Modes in the Bronco Sport?

The Bronco Sport's Terrain Management System includes up to seven G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) Modes, which optimize the vehicle's performance for various off-road conditions.

How much cargo space does the Bronco Sport offer?

With the second-row seats folded flat, the Bronco Sport provides up to 65.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, allowing you to haul larger items or multiple pieces of equipment.

What safety features are available for towing with the Bronco Sport?

The Bronco Sport offers features like Trailer Sway Control, Lane-Keeping Alert, and the Ford Co-Pilot 360™ system, which includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System, and Lane-Keeping System.

Which trim level of the Bronco Sport has the highest towing capacity?

The Badlands trim level of the Bronco Sport has the highest towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds when properly equipped with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package.

How does the Bronco Sport's towing capacity compare to its competitors?

The Bronco Sport's maximum towing capacity of 2,200 pounds surpasses many competitors in the compact SUV class, making it an attractive option for those with hauling needs.

What is the water-fording capability of the Bronco Sport?

The Bronco Sport has an impressive water-fording capability of up to 23.6 inches, allowing you to navigate through deep water bodies even when towing.

What are some real-world use cases for the Bronco Sport's towing capabilities?

The Bronco Sport's towing capabilities make it suitable for hauling small boats, utility trailers, camping gear, sports equipment, or even compact travel trailers for outdoor adventures or home improvement projects.

What are some expert tips for safe and efficient towing with the Bronco Sport?

Expert tips include proper load distribution, regular tire pressure checks, practicing maneuvering with the trailer, utilizing the vehicle's towing features, and regularly inspecting and maintaining the trailer's components.

Sarah Khan
Sarah Khan

Sarah isn't your average gearhead. With a double major in Mechanical Engineering and Automotive Technology, she dived straight into the world of car repair. After 15 years of turning wrenches at dealerships and independent shops, Sarah joined MICDOT to share her expertise and passion for making cars run like new. Her in-depth knowledge and knack for explaining complex issues in simple terms make her a valuable asset to our team.

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