If you’re looking for a Ford SUV that’s versatile, off-road ready, and still compact enough for daily drives, the Ford Bronco Sport should be on your list. But what about towing? How much can a Bronco Sport tow, and what does that mean for your weekend adventures, camping trips, or hauling gear around Tomball and beyond? Let’s break it all down in simple, conversational terms so you know exactly what this SUV can handle.
Bronco Sport Towing Capacity: The Basics
The Ford Bronco Sport is known for its adventurous spirit, but it’s also surprisingly capable when it comes to towing. The maximum towing capacity for the Bronco Sport depends on the trim levels and engine options you choose. For most trims, like the Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Base models, the towing capacity tops out around 2,000 pounds. But if you choose the Badlands trim with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, you can tow up to 2,200 pounds. That means more freedom for hauling toys and gear.
That might not sound like a huge jump, but those extra 200 pounds can make a difference when hauling a small camper, jet skis, or even a utility trailer. With features like trailer sway control, hitch receiver, and wiring harness, the Bronco Sport keeps your towing experience stable and safe. Ford designed this SUV to give you towing confidence even if you’ve never towed before.
Engine Options and Specs
When talking about towing, engine power matters. The Bronco Sport offers two main EcoBoost engine options:
- 1.5L EcoBoost three-cylinder engine: Standard on most trims, this engine produces around 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It’s efficient, with competitive MPG, and works great for daily driving and light towing. This engine handles short trips with a small trailer, but keep an eye on your payload capacity.
- 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine: Found in the Badlands trim, this powerful engine pushes out about 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. If towing is a priority, this is the engine to consider. It pairs especially well with the Class II Trailer Tow Package for maximum towing capacity.
Both engines are paired with an automatic transmission for smooth shifting. The Terrain Management System, which includes G.O.A.T. modes (Goes Over Any Terrain), helps you adapt to different conditions whether you’re free wheeling down a highway or rock crawl on an off-road trail. The twin-clutch rear drive unit on the Badlands trim adds even more traction and capability, making towing on dirt roads or uneven surfaces easier.
Off-Road and Towing Capabilities
The Bronco Sport SUV shines when the pavement ends. Its off-road capabilities make it a great choice for adventurous drivers. The Badlands trim, in particular, is designed for rugged trails with HOSS suspension, upgraded cooling systems, and a powerful engine that can handle tough conditions. When you’re towing on trails, the terrain management system and trailer sway control work together to keep your load stable. This means you can bring your small camper or off-road toys to places where bigger SUVs might struggle.
Key Towing Features
When you opt for the Class II Trailer Tow Package, you get:
- A trailer hitch receiver and wiring harness for easy hookups.
- Trailer sway control to keep your load steady.
- A payload capacity that supports your gear without compromising safety.
- A well-integrated rear drive unit for more control.
These features turn the Bronco Sport into a versatile Ford SUV that can handle light towing needs with confidence. Combine that with its compact SUV size and you’ve got a vehicle that’s easy to park and maneuver while still hauling what you need.
Trim Levels and Towing
Each Bronco Sport trim level offers something unique:
- Base and Big Bend: Great for everyday driving and light off-road fun. Tow up to 2,000 pounds with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.
- Outer Banks trim: More refined, but still capable. Also up to 2,000 pounds and ideal if you want comfort and style.
- Badlands trim: The towing champ of the lineup. With the 2.0L EcoBoost engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, it reaches the maximum towing capacity of 2,200 pounds. It’s the best option for those who need off-road power and towing strength.
Real-World Towing Uses
What does 2,000 to 2,200 pounds mean in the real world? Here are a few examples:
- A small pop-up camper or teardrop trailer.
- A pair of ATVs, dirt bikes, or snowmobiles.
- Kayaks, canoes, or small fishing boats.
- Utility trailers for yard projects or moving gear.
While it’s not a heavy-duty towing machine, the Bronco Sport is ideal for those who need light towing capabilities. Whether you’re exploring parks, heading to the lake, or just hauling tools, it can handle the job.
Comparing to Other SUVs
The Bronco Sport sits in the compact SUV category, similar to the Ford Escape. While it’s not designed to tow like a full-size SUV, its towing capabilities combined with off-road features make it stand out. The Bronco Sport is unique because it gives you a mix of towing, off-road, and everyday usability. The Escape is efficient, but if you want a Ford SUV that can tow and tackle rough trails, the Bronco Sport Badlands trim is the winner.
Safety and Efficiency
Towing safety is crucial. The Bronco Sport’s trailer sway control helps maintain stability. Make sure you’re familiar with your hitch receiver, wiring harness, and payload capacity. Check your trailer hitch before each trip and know your number of miles to your destination for fuel planning. The EcoBoost engines are efficient, so even when towing, you’ll enjoy decent MPG compared to larger SUVs.
Final Thoughts: Why Tomball Drivers Choose the Bronco Sport
So, how much can a Bronco Sport tow? Up to 2,200 pounds with the right setup. It’s not designed for heavy trailers, but for weekend warriors, campers, and off-road enthusiasts, it’s more than enough. With the right trim, hitch, and safety features, you can bring your gear along wherever the trail takes you.
The Tomball Ford dealership is stocked with new Ford Bronco Sport models, including the Big Bend, Outer Banks, and Badlands trims. Stop by your local Tomball Ford dealership, explore the specs, and take a test drive. The team can help you find the perfect trim level, talk through towing capabilities, and make sure you have the right trailer hitch and wiring harness for your needs. Your next adventure starts right here in Tomball with a new Ford Bronco Sport.
