Safety showdown: crosstrek vs bronco sport – which suv offers the most peace of mind?

The subcompact SUV segment is booming with options, and two of the most popular choices are the Subaru Crosstrek and the Ford Bronco Sport. Both vehicles offer rugged good looks, impressive off-road capabilities, and a host of creature comforts. But which one is right for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Subaru Crosstrek against the Bronco Sport to help you make an informed decision.

Off-Road Prowess: Bronco Sport vs. Crosstrek

When it comes to off-roading, the Bronco Sport has a slight edge over the Crosstrek. It features a more aggressive 4×4 system with a locking rear differential, which provides better traction and control in challenging conditions. Additionally, the Bronco Sport has a higher ground clearance (8.8 inches) than the Crosstrek (8.7 inches), allowing it to navigate obstacles more easily.

Fuel Economy: Crosstrek vs. Bronco Sport

If fuel efficiency is your priority, the Crosstrek is the clear winner. Its standard 2.0-liter boxer engine delivers an impressive 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that gets 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.

Cargo Capacity: Bronco Sport vs. Crosstrek

When it comes to cargo space, the Bronco Sport offers a more versatile and spacious interior. With the rear seats folded down, it provides up to 65.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, compared to the Crosstrek’s 55.3 cubic feet. Additionally, the Bronco Sport has a wider cargo opening and a lower load floor, making it easier to load and unload bulky items.

Interior Comfort: Crosstrek vs. Bronco Sport

Both the Crosstrek and the Bronco Sport offer well-equipped and comfortable interiors. The Crosstrek features a more refined and upscale cabin, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Bronco Sport, on the other hand, has a more rugged and utilitarian interior, with durable materials and a focus on practicality.

Safety Features: Bronco Sport vs. Crosstrek

Both vehicles have received excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Bronco Sport has a similar suite of safety features, including Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automatic braking.

Price and Value: Crosstrek vs. Bronco Sport

The Subaru Crosstrek starts at $22,245, while the Bronco Sport starts at $28,155. For the price, the Crosstrek offers a more refined interior, better fuel economy, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features. However, the Bronco Sport offers superior off-road capabilities, more cargo space, and a more rugged exterior.

Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru Crosstrek and the Bronco Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior comfort, and safety, the Crosstrek is the better choice. However, if you need a more capable off-roader with more cargo space, the Bronco Sport is the way to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a better warranty?
A: Both the Crosstrek and the Bronco Sport come with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Is the Bronco Sport more reliable than the Crosstrek?
A: According to J.D. Power’s Vehicle Dependability Study, the Crosstrek has a slightly higher reliability rating than the Bronco Sport.

Q: Which vehicle has a better resale value?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek typically has a higher resale value than the Bronco Sport, due to its strong reputation for reliability and durability.