2023 Bronco Sport Badlands: Specs, Features & Review

by Alex Braham 53 views

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive deep into the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands? This rugged little SUV is making waves, and for good reason. Whether you're an off-road enthusiast or just someone looking for a capable and stylish daily driver, the Badlands trim might just be the perfect fit. Let's get into all the juicy details – from engine specs to interior features – so you can decide if this Bronco is the right horse for your stable.

Overview of the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is the off-road-oriented trim in the Bronco Sport lineup. It builds upon the already impressive capabilities of the base models, adding enhanced features that make it a true trail-ready machine. Think of it as the adventurous sibling in the Bronco Sport family, always ready to get a little mud on its tires.

Key Highlights

  • Engine: Equipped with a robust 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, providing ample power for both on and off-road adventures.
  • Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): Standard 4WD with a twin-clutch rear drive unit that can send torque to a single rear wheel, enhancing traction.
  • G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain): Includes additional modes like Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl for optimized performance in various terrains.
  • Off-Road Suspension: Upgraded suspension for better ground clearance and articulation.
  • Protective Features: Metal bash plates and front tow hooks for added durability.

Why Choose the Badlands Trim?

Choosing the Badlands trim means you're prioritizing off-road capability and ruggedness. It's designed for those who want to explore beyond the pavement without sacrificing comfort and convenience. While other trims offer a more civilized driving experience, the Badlands is unapologetically built for adventure. If you frequently find yourself on unpaved roads or tackling challenging trails, the Badlands is the way to go. Plus, it looks seriously cool with its unique styling cues and aggressive stance.

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands isn't just about off-road prowess; it also offers a well-appointed interior with plenty of tech and comfort features. You'll find an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, comfortable seating, and ample cargo space, making it practical for daily use. Ford has really nailed the balance between rugged capability and everyday usability with this trim. So, whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or just need a reliable vehicle for your daily commute, the Badlands has you covered. It's a versatile SUV that's ready for anything you throw its way, blending the spirit of adventure with the practicality you need in a modern vehicle. The enhanced suspension and robust powertrain ensure that you can confidently tackle rough terrain, while the comfortable interior and advanced tech features make every drive enjoyable. This makes the Badlands trim an excellent choice for those who demand both performance and comfort in their SUV.

Engine and Performance Specs

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the engine and performance specs of the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands. This is where the Badlands really shines, offering a potent combination of power and off-road capability.

Engine Details

The heart of the Badlands is a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. This turbocharged four-cylinder powerhouse delivers:

  • Horsepower: 250 hp
  • Torque: 277 lb-ft

This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive gear changes. The combination of the EcoBoost engine and the 8-speed transmission ensures that the Badlands has plenty of pep for both on-road and off-road driving. The turbocharger provides a significant boost in power, making it easy to accelerate and maintain speed, even when the vehicle is loaded with gear or climbing steep inclines. The 8-speed transmission helps to optimize fuel efficiency while also providing the right gear for every situation, whether you're cruising on the highway or crawling over rocks.

Performance Features

  • Advanced 4x4 System: The Badlands comes standard with an advanced 4x4 system that includes a twin-clutch rear-drive unit. This system can send nearly all rear-axle torque to either rear wheel, which is incredibly useful for maintaining traction on slippery or uneven surfaces.
  • G.O.A.T. Modes™: The Badlands includes several G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain), such as Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl. These modes adjust the vehicle's settings to optimize performance for different types of terrain. For example, Rock Crawl mode locks the four-wheel-drive system, engages the low-speed gearing, and adjusts the throttle response for precise control when navigating rocky obstacles. Mud/Ruts mode optimizes the traction control and throttle response to help you maintain momentum in muddy or rutted conditions.
  • Off-Road Suspension: The Badlands features an off-road-tuned suspension that provides increased ground clearance and improved articulation. This allows the vehicle to better navigate obstacles and maintain contact with the ground, even on very uneven terrain. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and impacts, providing a more comfortable ride both on and off-road.

Towing Capacity

For those who need to haul gear, the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands offers a towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds. This is enough to tow a small trailer, a couple of jet skis, or a small boat. The towing package includes all the necessary hardware, such as a trailer hitch and wiring harness, to make towing safe and easy. The Badlands also comes with trailer sway control, which helps to keep the trailer stable and prevent it from swaying back and forth.

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands excels in both power and performance. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine provides ample horsepower and torque for any adventure, while the advanced 4x4 system and G.O.A.T. Modes™ ensure that you can tackle any terrain with confidence. Whether you're planning a weekend off-roading trip or just need a capable daily driver, the Badlands has you covered. Its robust engine, advanced drivetrain, and off-road-tuned suspension make it a true standout in the compact SUV segment. Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 2,200 pounds, you can bring all your gear along for the ride.

Interior Features and Technology

Okay, so the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is a beast off-road, but what about inside? Let's take a look at the interior features and technology that make this SUV a comfortable and connected space.

Comfort and Convenience

  • Seating: The Badlands trim typically comes with comfortable and supportive cloth or optional leather-trimmed seats. The front seats are often heated, providing extra comfort in cold weather.
  • Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control: Keeps both the driver and passenger comfortable with individual temperature settings.
  • Ample Cargo Space: With the rear seats up, you get plenty of room for groceries or gear. Fold them down, and you've got a cavernous cargo area for larger items.
  • Rubberized Flooring: Easy to clean and durable, perfect for those muddy adventures.

Technology and Connectivity

  • 8-inch Touchscreen: The centerpiece of the infotainment system, offering intuitive controls and crisp graphics.
  • SYNC® 3: Ford's infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with voice recognition capabilities.
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and more.
  • FordPass Connect: Turns your vehicle into a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you to stay connected on the go.
  • Premium Audio System: Available Bang & Olufsen sound system for a high-quality listening experience.

Safety Features

  • Ford Co-Pilot360: A suite of advanced safety features, including:
    • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: Helps prevent or mitigate collisions.
    • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and when backing up.
    • Lane-Keeping System: Helps you stay in your lane on the highway.
    • Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
  • Rearview Camera: Makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier.

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands doesn't skimp on interior comforts or technology. It's designed to be a practical and enjoyable space, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip. The comfortable seats, dual-zone climate control, and ample cargo space make it a great choice for families or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. The 8-inch touchscreen and SYNC® 3 system provide seamless connectivity, while the available Bang & Olufsen sound system ensures that you can enjoy your favorite music in style. The suite of safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360, provides peace of mind on every drive. Ford has truly created a well-rounded package with the Badlands trim, combining rugged off-road capability with modern comfort and technology. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on the trail and on the highway, making it a great choice for anyone who wants a versatile and capable SUV. The rubberized flooring is a particularly nice touch, as it makes it easy to clean up after a day of off-roading. Overall, the interior of the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is a comfortable, convenient, and technologically advanced space that enhances the overall driving experience.

Off-Road Capabilities

Let's be real, the main draw of the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is its off-road prowess. This isn't just a pretty face; it's a genuinely capable machine built to tackle tough terrain.

Key Off-Road Features

  • Advanced 4x4 System: As mentioned earlier, the twin-clutch rear-drive unit can send torque to a single rear wheel, maximizing traction in challenging conditions.
  • G.O.A.T. Modes™: These modes optimize the vehicle's settings for various types of terrain, including Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl.
  • Increased Ground Clearance: The Badlands has more ground clearance than other Bronco Sport trims, allowing it to clear larger obstacles.
  • Off-Road Suspension: The specially tuned suspension provides greater articulation and helps to absorb bumps and impacts.
  • Metal Bash Plates: Protect the underbody from rocks and other hazards.
  • Front Tow Hooks: For added recovery capability.

How It Handles Different Terrains

  • Mud and Ruts: The Mud/Ruts mode optimizes traction control and throttle response to help you maintain momentum.
  • Rocks: The Rock Crawl mode locks the four-wheel-drive system, engages low-speed gearing, and adjusts the throttle response for precise control.
  • Sand: The Sand mode optimizes the vehicle's settings for driving on loose sand, preventing it from getting bogged down.
  • Snow and Ice: The Slippery mode reduces throttle sensitivity and optimizes traction control for better grip on slippery surfaces.

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is designed to be a true off-road performer. Its advanced 4x4 system, G.O.A.T. Modes™, and off-road-tuned suspension allow it to tackle a wide range of terrains with confidence. Whether you're navigating muddy trails, rocky obstacles, or sandy dunes, the Badlands is up to the challenge. The increased ground clearance and metal bash plates provide added protection, while the front tow hooks offer extra recovery capability. The Badlands isn't just about brute force; it's also about intelligent design and engineering. The G.O.A.T. Modes™ allow you to tailor the vehicle's settings to the specific terrain, maximizing traction and control. The off-road suspension provides a comfortable ride, even on very rough surfaces. And the advanced 4x4 system ensures that power is sent to the wheels that need it most, maximizing traction and preventing wheel spin. The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is a true off-road machine, capable of taking you places that other compact SUVs simply can't go. Its combination of ruggedness, technology, and intelligent design makes it a standout in its class. If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle both your daily commute and your weekend adventures, the Badlands is definitely worth considering. It's a versatile and capable SUV that's ready for anything you throw its way. The confidence-inspiring performance in various terrains makes it a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands? It's a seriously impressive compact SUV that delivers on its promise of off-road capability and ruggedness. It's not just a poser; it's a genuinely capable machine that's ready to tackle tough terrain. But it's also comfortable and well-equipped, making it a great choice for daily driving as well.

Pros

  • Excellent off-road capabilities
  • Powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine
  • Advanced 4x4 system with twin-clutch rear drive unit
  • Versatile G.O.A.T. Modes™
  • Comfortable and well-equipped interior
  • User-friendly technology

Cons

  • Fuel economy isn't the best in its class
  • Ride can be a bit firm on the road
  • Can be a bit pricey compared to other compact SUVs

Who Is It For?

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is perfect for:

  • Off-road enthusiasts
  • Those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions
  • Anyone who wants a rugged and capable daily driver
  • People who value versatility and practicality

Overall

The 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands is a top choice in the compact SUV segment, especially if you prioritize off-road capability and ruggedness. It's a well-rounded vehicle that offers a great combination of performance, comfort, and technology. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient or the most affordable option, its capabilities and features make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a versatile and capable SUV. Ford has truly created something special with the Badlands trim, combining the spirit of adventure with the practicality of a modern vehicle. Whether you're planning a weekend off-roading trip or just need a reliable daily driver, the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands has you covered. It's a vehicle that's ready for anything you throw its way, and it's sure to impress with its ruggedness, technology, and overall performance. So, if you're in the market for a compact SUV that can handle anything, be sure to give the 2023 Bronco Sport Badlands a serious look. You won't be disappointed!