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Ford introduced the Bronco in 1966 and discontinued it in 1996. Banking on consumers’ nostalgia, the Blue Oval revived the legendary SUV with the sixth-generation Bronco in 2021. The brand also debuted the more affordable Bronco Sport compact crossover. Now in its third year of production, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport offers various trim levels. So, which one do most consumers pick?

Overview of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport trims

2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Edition interior
2023 Ford Bronco Sport Heritage Edition | Ford Motor Company

The 2023 Ford Bronco Sport comes in six trim levels: Base, Big Bend, Heritage, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Heritage Limited.

The base model starts at $29,215. It also has 4×4 capability, a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine making 181 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, and auto start and stop. Other notable standard features are a safari-style roof, a terrain management system with five G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes, Ford Co-Pilot360, SYNC3 voice-activated technology, and an 8.0-inch touchscreen.

The next Bronco Sport trim is the Big Bend. Starting at $31,230, this model adds Intelligent Access with push-button start and SiriusXM Radio. It also has heated side view mirrors, a Molle strap system, and 17-inch carbonized gray high-gloss aluminum wheels.

The mid-range Heritage Edition starts at $32,650. It has 225/65/R17 Continental all-terrain tires, a white roof, heated front seats, unique plaid upholstery, and second-row rubberized seatbacks.

Retailing for $35,615, the Outer Banks trim has a remote start system with the FordPass app, an eight-way power driver’s seat, a six-way power passenger seat, and five G.O.A.T modes. It also has a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel with the Bronco badge and cruise and audio controls.

The Badlands model starts at $37,340. It packs a more potent 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine producing 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. It also has auto start-stop technology, advanced 4×4 with a twin-clutch rear drive unit, off-road suspension, a front 180-degree camera with split view and washer, and 235/65/r17 all-terrain off-road tires.

The range-topping Heritage Limited trim starts at $44,655. It has a Class II trailer tow package with trailer sway control, a power moon roof, heated front seats, metal bash plates, advanced 4×4, Ford Trail Control7 for off-roading, and seven G.O.A.T. modes.

According to Edmunds, the Big Bend is the most popular 2023 Ford Bronco Sport trim. It’s also the trim the site’s experts prefer.

“Assuming you don’t need the most off-road-capable Bronco Sport — the Badlands trim — we recommend the Big Bend for a pleasing mix of features and value,” Edmunds says. “It slots above the Base trim and below the pricier Outer Banks trim. We’d suggest adding the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package for more advanced driver aids, including adaptive cruise control.”

With a starting price of $31,230, the Big Bend is the most affordable after the base model. It’s also a solid pick for drivers who aren’t interested in serious off-roading but want the ability to handle some rough terrain occasionally. 

The Big Bend is likely the most popular 2023 Ford Bronco Sport trim because it’s one of the cheapest. Consumers get many creature comforts, such as the push button start and heated side mirrors, for only $2,000 more than the base model.

Unlike the Bronco, the Bronco Sport isn’t made for off-roading. But the Big Bend trim can handle some harsher conditions. With standard all-wheel drive, decent ground clearance, and enhanced traction settings, this model can soldier through bad weather and across tamer trails.

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