Bronco Sport vs CX-50 Hybrid
In the compact suv class, the Bronco Sport and the CX-50 Hybrid are natural rivals. Surprisingly little separates them. A handful of specs move the needle; the rest are rounding errors.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance CX-50 Hybrid wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
Key Differences
-
The CX-50 Hybrid has 39 hp more power
The Bronco Sport is clearly behind on total system output (180 hp against 219 hp), and that’s one of its biggest weak spots in this matchup. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
Engine & Performance
CX-50 Hybrid leads
When it comes to engine & performance, the CX-50 Hybrid is comfortably ahead. The CX-50 Hybrid brings 39 hp more power. The CX-50 Hybrid’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. For engine & performance, the CX-50 Hybrid is the one to beat.
Total system output
Bronco Sport: 180 hp CX-50 Hybrid: 219 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
This is a tie in all but name. On space & practicality, both deliver about the same. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
If off-road & towing matters most to you, this section won’t make the decision for you: they’re level. Don’t let off-road & towing decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Safety & Tech
On safety & tech, the useful details are the names in the table: what each one uses, not a figure we can rank.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Hybrid |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I3 | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Total system output | 180 hp | 219 hp (winner) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | eCVT |
| Drivetrain | 4x4 | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 38 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 39 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 37 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Bronco Sport | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the CX-50 Hybrid if…
- you want more power (219 hp vs 180 hp)
- you’re comfortable with how Mazda does things
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Bronco Sport or the CX-50 Hybrid?
On the specs compared here, the CX-50 Hybrid makes more sense for most buyers; the Bronco Sport doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
On paper, the Bronco Sport and the CX-50 Hybrid chase the same buyer. In the details, Ford and Mazda made different calls. The CX-50 Hybrid earns my vote first and foremost with 39 hp more power.
Put simply, the Bronco Sport suits people who care about the things a spec sheet can’t capture, while the CX-50 Hybrid suits people who put engine & performance first.
My pick: the CX-50 Hybrid.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.