Both the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2024 Toyota RAV4 deliver punchy power and easygoing handling, not to mention a wealth of modern features! But which of these compact crossover SUVs best matches your priorities? Our buying guide helps you compare each model’s pros and cons!
Key Takeaways
- With a longer list of standard comfort, convenience, and utility features, the 2024 Bronco Sport is the best overall deal.
- The Toyota RAV4 is the thriftiest option, earning up to 30 mpg combined.
- With more available power and standard all-wheel drive, the Bronco Sport appeals to fun-loving drivers.
- In the Bronco Sport — especially the Badlands trim model — you can travel deeper into off-road terrain!
What Is the Starting Price of the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport?
Although the 2024 Ford Bronco (from $29,795) starts at a slightly higher price than the 2024 Toyota RAV4 (from $28,675), it comes standard with a more impressive list of features. In our humble opinion, that makes the Bronco Sport the better deal!
Both small SUVs deliver a well-rounded standard lineup, with features that include LED headlamps, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and smartphone connectivity via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Bronco Sport also adds standard roof rails, automatic climate control, keyless ignition and entry, heated exterior mirrors, and more.
What Engines are Available in the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport?
Ford designed the Bronco Sport to be the best of two worlds, offering both a comfortable around-town cruise and a trail-ready performance. Two punchy engines are available, depending on which trim model you select. The more powerful option, a turbocharged 250-horsepower four-cylinder engine, thoroughly leaves the Toyota RAV4 in the dust. And every Bronco Sport comes standard with all-wheel drive, improving all-weather traction and trail performance!
Here’s a quick look at the Bronco Sport powertrain options:
- Standard turbocharged 1.5L three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque)
- Badlands/Heritage Limited: turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 277 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 keeps things simple, putting the same engine under the hood of all six of its trim models. And while this compact crossover packs a pretty good punch, it’s not as torque-heavy as either Bronco Sport engine option, limiting your trail potential. However, this Toyota is available with all-wheel drive to improve traction on light trails!
Every Toyota RAV4 features the same powertrain:
- 2.5L four-cylinder engine (203 hp, 184 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
What Gas Mileage Does the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Get?
If you prefer to trade off-road potential for maximum fuel economy, then the RAV4 is the best choice! Depending on trim model and equipment, Toyota’s compact crossover earns up to 30 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway).
Although the Bronco Sport comes in second place here, it’s a close second place. Depending on which powertrain you select, the Bronco Sport earns up to 26 mpg combined (25 city/29 highway), an impressive blend of power and fuel economy.
Is the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport a Reliable Off Roading Vehicle?
Because the Bronco Sport was specially designed to deliver off-road performance, it should be the first choice for drivers eager to hit the trail. Every trim model comes standard with outdoor-friendly utilities, including all-wheel drive, roof rails, stain-resistant upholstery, a rubberized cargo floor, and five driving modes (Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand). For the ultimate adventure, consider the top-trim Badlands. It enhances trail capabilities with a longer list of performance features, including upgraded all-wheel drive, off-road-tuned suspension, all-terrain tires, and two extra driving modes (Mud/Ruts and Rock Crawl).
While not every Toyota RAV4 includes all-wheel drive, this performance upgrade is widely available. Toyota’s small crossover offers a couple of off-road-friendly trim models: the Adventure and TRD Off-Road. The latter is the more capable option, adding off-road-tuned suspension and all-terrain tires. Neither RAV4 trim is as handsomely equipped as the Bronco Sport Badlands, however.
What is the Better Choice Between the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport and Toyota RAV4?
While the 2024 Toyota RAV4 has a lot going for it, we think you’ll agree that the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport is the most fun. Not only does Ford’s compact crossover deliver more for your money, but it’s also available with more power and rugged capabilities! These are all great features to have in your new SUV, so come on down to Jones Ford and we will help you find the perfect 2024 Ford Bronco!