Compare Bronco and Jeep Models in New London - by Norwich, Connecticut

Performance

The Ford Bronco Sport offers shoppers flexibility with multiple turbocharged engine options. Standard models feature a 1.5-liter EcoBoost® engine producing 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque, while the Bronco Sport Badlands upgrades to a 2.0-liter EcoBoost® turbo-four generating 250 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. This higher-output configuration delivers a clear advantage in acceleration, hill climbing, and multi-terrain adventures.

The 2026 Jeep Compass relies on a single 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 200 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. While competitive on paper, it falls short of the Ford Bronco Sport's available performance ceiling.

Off-Road Capability

Both the Ford Bronco Sport and the Jeep Compass offer all-wheel drive as standard equipment, but the Bronco Sport has the edge in terrain readiness and trail performance.

In addition to standard 4WD, the Ford Bronco Sport includes a Terrain Management System™ with at least five G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain). These settings automatically adjust throttle, transmission behavior, and traction control to specific surfaces. That capability is even more apparent in the Badlands trim, which includes an advanced 4x4 system with a twin-clutch rear drive unit, H.O.S.S. high-performance off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, and additional terrain modes. The Sasquatch package further elevates the ruggedness and capability of Badlands and Outer Banks trim levels.

The Jeep Compass Trailhawk® has an upgraded, low-range 4WD system and additional off-road-focused features. However, it is generally outpaced by the Bronco Sport Badlands when it comes to exploring beyond the asphalt.

Cargo Capacity and Interior Utility

Interior versatility is another area where the Ford Bronco Sport pulls ahead. It offers 32.5 cubic feet behind the second-row seats to carry your gear or groceries. When your Old Saybrook outings require even more storage, you can fold the rear seats, expanding the cargo area to 65.2 cubic feet.

The Jeep Compass has 27.2 cubic feet of storage behind the second row, expanding to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Towing

While neither model is intended to tow heavy loads, the Ford Bronco Sport has the edge in terms of transporting small trailers or recreational equipment. When properly equipped, the Bronco Sport Badlands can pull up to 2,700 pounds, while the Jeep Compass tops out at 2,000 pounds.

Performance

The Ford Bronco lineup begins with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® turbocharged engine producing 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, already outpacing the Wrangler's standard 3.6-liter V6 (285 horsepower, 260 pound-feet of torque) and its available 2.0-liter turbo-four (270 horsepower, 295 pound-feet of torque). For drivers seeking even more muscle, several trims in the main Ford Bronco lineup are available with a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, boosting output to 330 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque.

Cargo Capacity

Cargo flexibility is another advantage for the Ford Bronco. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco provides wider door openings and  more usable storage space, particularly when comparing four-door configurations.

The Ford Bronco provides 38.3 cubic feet for storage behind the rear seats, expanding to 83 cubic feet with the second row folded. In contrast, the four-door Jeep Wrangler measures 31.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 72.4 cubic feet behind the first.

Daily Drivability

Both SUVs are built with trail use in mind and boast serious off-road credentials. However, the Ford Bronco distinguishes itself as the more comfortable and composed daily driver. Its independent front suspension, wider track, and well-sorted chassis tuning deliver a smoother ride on pavement, especially during commuting and longer highway drives.

Inside, the Bronco offers a more refined cabin layout with supportive seating, intuitive controls, and a quieter ride at speed, helping reduce fatigue during daily commutes. Combined with confident on-road handling and modern driver-assist technology, the Bronco feels more accommodating for everyday use compared to the Jeep Wrangler.

Towing Capability

When properly configured, the Ford Bronco can handle trailer weights up to 4,500 pounds. Certain Jeep Wrangler Rubicon models can technically pull up to 5,000 pounds. However, Car and Driver found that the external spare tire makes actually hooking up a trailer impractical.¹ Most other Wrangler models are limited to 3,500 pounds.