I’ll cut to the chase: The answer to the question posed in the headline is “no.” But that doesn’t mean the Bronco Sport doesn’t have its place in the overlanding segment.
Ford revealed some vehicles for the SEMA 360 show in late 2020. Among them were two builds from the Bronco brand, a Bronco two-door and a Bronco Sport. While the two-door Bronco is more of a wheeling concept, the Bronco Sport is fully outfitted for overlanding.
At first glance, I guffawed at the idea of a Bronco Sport overland rig.
“How cute! It’s pulling an adventure trailer,” I chuckled. Then I gave it a bit more of a think.
We’re all bought into the idea of the unibody, full independent-suspension Land Rover Defender being overland-capable. Why not the Bronco Sport?
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Bronco Sport can tow 2,000 pounds. It has 8.8 inches of ground clearance. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine churns out 245 horspower. And its roof can hold a 150-pound dynamic load. I could go on.
Granted, it won’t ever be the most capable overland rig. From where I sit, though, it can do most of the things and is suitable for most overlanders.
I highlight this to both stoke controversy and also introspection. I know there are some of you who will never accept anything other than a Defender, Wrangler, or Land Cruiser as a real, capable overlanding rig. And that’s fine.
For the rest of us, however, there will be room in our driveways — and on the trails — for stuff a bit softer, like the arguably handsome Bronco Sport.
Photos credit: Ford Motor Company
