The Ford Bronco Sport, particularly the Badlands model, is one of the more durable compact SUVs on the market, thanks to several off-road improvements such as increased ground clearance, protection, and a clever dual-clutch torque-vectoring rear differential. According to these spy photographs, Ford isn’t resting on its laurels and is hard at work on an even more spectacular Bronco Sport for tackling trails.
As other automakers have done, bumper adjustments may be effective for improving approach and departure angles. But what’s most noticeable is that this Bronco Sport prototype is significantly taller than any other variant. That extra height appears to be the result of suspension improvements, and it should deliver a considerable lift over the Badlands’ 8.8 inches of ground clearance.
The wheels almost look like deadlocks, but we’re very sure true beadlocks won’t be accessible. The treads on the tires are quite severe, even extending onto the sidewalls. These should provide even greater off-road traction and, if larger than the Badlands tires, may contribute to some of the lift.
Because it is a variation of the present SUV, it is expected to arrive no later than next year. It’ll almost certainly only be available with the larger 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine, as well as the previously mentioned all-wheel drive and rear differential.
