Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Crosstrek: which one to choose?
September 02 2026,
Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Crosstrek. Which gives you more for your money? This comparison between the two SUVs helps you make an informed choice.
Between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Subaru Crosstrek, what are the main differences?
The table below outlines the key differences:
In summary
Between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Subaru Crosstrek, what are the main differences?
The table below outlines the key differences:
|
Features |
2026 Ford Bronco Sport |
2026 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
|
Starting price |
$38,140 |
$33,457 |
|
Max horsepower |
238 horsepower |
194 horsepower |
|
Drivetrain |
8-speed automatic / 4x4 |
CVT / AWD |
|
Combined fuel consumption |
8.6 L/100 km |
8.1 L/100 km |
|
Cargo volume |
Up to 1,846 litres |
Up to 1,549 litres |
|
Towing capacity |
2,700 lb. |
1,500 lb. |
|
Typical user |
Adventurer + active family |
Urban + couple and young family |
Pricing and available trims: 2026 Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Crosstrek
While the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport SUV comes in four trims, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek offers five.
The table below lists the starting prices for both vehicles:
|
2026 Ford Bronco Sport |
2026 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|
|
Big Bend: $38,140 |
Convenience: $33,457 |
|
Heritage: $40,540 |
Touring: $36,461 |
|
Outer Banks: $41,240 |
Onyx: $37,961 |
|
Badlands: $45,540 |
Limited: $40,961 |
|
Hybrid Limited: $43,461 |
Sources: starting prices taken from the Ford Canada and Subaru Canada websites (July 2026).
At first glance, the Subaru Crosstrek lineup appears more competitive, while the adventure-leaning Ford Bronco Sport SUV lists an excellent price-to-equipment ratio for its four well-equipped trims.
On the other hand, standard equipment on the Ford vehicle is more extensive than on the Subaru Crosstrek. It is worth noting that the Bronco Sport is a compact SUV, whereas the Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact SUV. This may also affect starting prices.
For comparison, you can also turn to the Ford Bronco with a starting price, which is offered in seven trims, each with relevant content.
Powertrains, performance, and off-road capability
When comparing a compact AWD SUV and a subcompact SUV, it makes sense to look closely at the powertrains.
While the Ford Bronco Sport offers two powertrains, the Subaru Crosstrek offers three, including a hybrid.
Let us look at the spec sheets to better assess each model's performance:
Ford Bronco Sport
|
Engines |
Horsepower |
Torque |
|---|---|---|
|
1.5 L turbo I3 (Big Bend, Heritage, and Outer Banks) |
180 |
200 lb-ft |
|
2.0 L turbo I4 (Badlands) |
238 |
277 lb-ft |
Subaru Crosstrek
|
Engines |
Horsepower |
Torque |
|---|---|---|
|
2.0 L H4 (Convenience, Touring) |
152 |
145 lb-ft |
|
2.5 L H4 (Onyx, Limited) |
182 |
178 lb-ft |
|
2.5 L H4 + electric motor (Hybrid Limited) |
194 |
199 lb-ft |
In every scenario, the SUV for Quebec, the Ford Bronco Sport, is more powerful than the Subaru Crosstrek, thanks to its 4-cylinder turbocharged engine.
Equipped with a 4x4 drivetrain, the Bronco Sport can head outdoors for long stretches and get off the beaten path. The Outer Banks trim features a terrain management system with five standard G.O.A.T. driving modes: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Off-road.
This Subaru Crosstrek vs. Ford Bronco Sport comparison shows ground clearance up to 223 mm for the Bronco Sport versus 220 mm for the Subaru.
Combined fuel consumption for the Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks is 8.6 L/100 km versus 8.1 L/100 km for the 2026 Crosstrek.
Towing capacity and cargo space, plus practical aspects
A review of the towing capacity and cargo space offered by these two SUVs reveals notable differences.
The table below illustrates this:
|
Ford Bronco Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Towing capacity |
2,200 lb. (3-cylinder turbo) or 2,700 lb. (4-cylinder turbo) |
1,500 lb. |
|
Cargo space behind first row |
1,846 litres |
1,549 litres |
|
Cargo space behind second row |
920 litres |
564 litres |
The Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Crosstrek matchup shows an advantage for the former over the latter. You will be able to tow your outdoor gear or small camping trailer more easily with the Bronco Sport than with the Crosstrek, which is more limited.
Design, dimensions, and comfort: Ford Bronco Sport vs. Subaru Crosstrek
The silhouette of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport highlights its adventurous side. The angular, versatile body lines contrast with the Subaru Crosstrek, which is more conventional.
Trail-ready, the Ford Bronco Sport is not afraid to push forward and head into off-the-beaten-path places. Inside, you benefit from supportive seats with bolsters and an ergonomic seating position.
As for the Subaru Crosstrek, it offers a roomy cabin for a subcompact SUV, and build quality is up to par.
Dimensions for both vehicles appear in the table below:
|
Ford Bronco Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
|
|---|---|---|
|
Wheelbase |
2,670 mm |
2,670 mm |
|
Overall length |
4,448 mm |
4,480 mm |
|
Overall width |
1,887 mm |
1,800 mm |
|
Overall height |
1,831 mm |
1,600 mm |
Comparing the compact SUV Bronco Sport with the subcompact SUV Crosstrek shows that the former is wider and taller than the latter. The latter is, however, slightly longer than the first. More robust, the Ford Bronco Sport is ready for big adventures.
Technology and equipment
In terms of onboard tech, there are a few similarities and also some differences between the two vehicles:
- 13.2-inch touch screen (Bronco Sport) and 11.6-inch (Crosstrek)
- Integrated navigation system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- FordPass Connect service (Bronco Sport)
- 10-speaker B&O sound system (Bronco Sport) and 10-speaker Harman Kardon (Crosstrek)
Driver-assistance systems include:
- Ford Trail Control trail management (Bronco Sport)
- Off-road X-Mode control (Crosstrek)
- Rear occupant reminder
- Front camera with 180-degree view (Bronco Sport)
Which SUV should you choose for your lifestyle?
In closing, the Ford Bronco Sport is a better choice if you enjoy the outdoors or for active families.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a better choice for city driving and couples with a small family.
FAQ
What is the difference between the Ford Bronco Sport and the Subaru Crosstrek?
The Ford Bronco Sport is more powerful with its 2.0 L turbo engine, and its capacities are greater than those of the Subaru Crosstrek. Towing capacity reaches 2,700 lb. (4-cylinder turbo) versus 1,500 lb. for the Crosstrek.
Is the Bronco Sport better in off-road settings than the Crosstrek?
Yes, the Bronco Sport is better in off-road scenarios than the Crosstrek, especially with its G.O.A.T. modes and since the Wilderness trim is no longer offered on the Subaru. The 4x4 drivetrain allows it to venture onto less-defined trails.
Which SUV uses less fuel?
Both SUVs are comparable in terms of fuel consumption.
Which one offers the largest cargo area?
The Ford Bronco Sport with 1,846 litres, versus 1,549 litres for the Crosstrek.
Book a test drive today at Morand Ford in Sainte-Catherine, on the South Shore of Montreal, near Candiac, Saint-Constant, La Prairie, Brossard, and Longueuil. Take advantage of appealing financing solutions and current special offers.
Let us review the highlights of the comparison between the compact SUV Bronco Sport and the subcompact Crosstrek:
|
Specs |
2026 Ford Bronco Sport |
2026 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
|
SUV type |
Compact |
Subcompact |
|
Number of trims |
4 |
5 |
|
Max horsepower / max torque |
238 HP / 277 lb-ft |
194 HP / 199 lb-ft |
|
Max towing capacity |
2,200 lb. (3-cylinder turbo) or 2,700 lb. (4-cylinder turbo) |
1,500 lb. |
|
Max cargo space |
1,846 litres |
1,549 litres |
|
Starting price |
$38,140 |
$33,457 |
