Starting at
Starting at
| 181-250 | Horsepower (hp) | 158 |
| 190-277 | Torque (lb-ft) | 138 |
| 65.2 | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 55.1 |
The re-release of the beloved Ford Bronco in 2021 marked a distinct challenge to other automotive companies––would they be able to top Ford’s brand recognition, reputation, and classic vehicle’s return? Though some drivers may choose the Honda when comparing the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport vs 2023 Honda HR-V due to its reputation, there are plenty of Ford fans who missed out on owning a Bronco the first time and love the idea of off-roading in the Bronco Sport on the weekends. There are other reasons people purchase the Bronco Sport, of course, but one of the big selling points is that it can handle exploring off the beaten path, through mud, over sand, and even over debris like rocks and logs.
Commuting to work and running errands can feel lackluster at times, but you don’t have to be stuck inside a regular SUV to get to work or pick up groceries. Instead, you can inject a little more fun into your life by driving a special, well-beloved SUV that has its roots in favorite American pastimes. Driving a Bronco is also a reminder that once the weekend arrives, you’ve got a sporty vehicle ready to blaze a new trail wherever you want to go next. Can Honda say the same for the HR-V? Why would you want a plain SUV only suitable for city life when you could get the Ford Bronco Sport, a bonafide adventurer with dozens of ways to boost its already impressive off-road capabilities?
The Honda HR-V is characterized as a small SUV that is still roomy enough for plenty of cargo in the way of sports equipment, picnic supplies, and pets of various shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, the 2023 model gets rid of one of its best-selling points, the press-of-a-button Magic Seat, which allowed for easy access and extra cargo space in previous models. It might be slightly larger in size now, but it remains to be seen whether this is as helpful as the Magic Seat had been.
With just three trim levels, there isn’t much to choose from with the Honda HR-V. The LX, Sport, and EX-L are similar enough both in price and features that it doesn’t make much of a difference which one you get, which probably won’t sit well with those who enjoy luxury features and won’t have many more options than the people buying the LX or Sport. While the Honda HR-V isn’t a low-quality vehicle, it is not very exciting, and it does not have the appeal of the classic Ford Bronco.
On the other hand, the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport has double the amount of trim levels, from the base model to the Heritage Limited edition. With model names like Outer Banks, Big Bend, and Badlands, Ford evokes imagery of the places you may choose to explore with the Bronco Sport. These names inspire a sense of adventure, unlike the HR-V’s practical and rather boring naming process. The Bronco Sport also comes in more colors than the HR-V, boasting eleven hues over the HR-V’s seven. You can choose between colors like Eruption Green, Hot Pepper Red, Area 51, Cyber Orange, and Atlas Blue, while the HR-V’s palette consists of paint colors like Modern Steel, Urban Gray, and Platinum White.
Another perk of going with the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport? You can choose whether you want to go vintage or modern, with two trim levels––the Heritage and Heritage Limited––on the vintage side and the rest on the modern side. Honda’s HR-V, of course, does not have a vintage trim level because it doesn’t have the rich history and likeability of the Bronco Sport. Wouldn’t you rather have a vintage classic that’s off-road capable rather than a practical, dull SUV that can’t switch from a daily commuter to a rough-and-tumble adventure buddy? Whether you’re looking for an off-roader or not, you have to admit that it’s more appealing in shape, color, and style than the ho-hum HR-V.
Of course, many drivers are concerned about what kind of technology is available for their vehicles. While some technology, like premium stereo systems, might be negotiable, there are plenty of other tech features that are non-negotiable, such as navigation or cameras. So how do the HR-V and the Ford Bronco Sport measure up when it comes to standard and available tech?
Honda’s HR-V has quite a bit of standard tech included in all trim levels, like a seven-inch infotainment center, BlueTooth HandsFreeLink, BlueTooth Streaming Audio, and a Radio Data System. Though Bluetooth is still used in plenty of vehicles, it isn’t anything special and is expected. In addition, the standard seven-inch infotainment screen is rather small, and to get a larger one means shelling out more money for a higher trim level. All HR-Vs also come with the following tech features: two 2.5 Amp USB charging points, an additional 2.5 Amp USB Smartphone/Audio Interface, a cargo area 12-V outlet, HondaLink, and an SMS Text Message Function. There are plenty of vehicles available with all of these and more––just look at the 2023 Bronco Sport.
Ford’s 2023 Bronco Sport base model comes with an eight-inch LCD infotainment center, Ford’s SYNC 3 system, and compatibility with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to take notes, call friends, and listen to all those audiobooks and podcasts you’ve been meaning to catch up on. Going up trim levels will add tech features like Sirius XM radio, a MOLLE strap system, a 6.5-inch color LCD instrument panel in lieu of the 4.2-inch instrument panel, ambient lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a power moonroof.
Another cool feature of the 2023 Bronco Sport is the Terrain Management System, with multiple functions that allow for many different types of driving. In fact, the system’s modes are collectively called the G.O.A.T. modes; though, the acronym doesn't stand for "Greatest of all Time" as you might expect. Rather, G.O.A.T. stands for “Goes Over Any Type of Terrain." The G.O.A.T. modes are:
When it comes to optional features, there are typically two camps: those who want to add on all the bells and whistles and those who don’t find the prospect of adding extra features enticing. These people figure out which features are important to them and then find the corresponding trim level. It’s a valid way to go, but if you’re looking to spice things up a bit, you’ll want to peruse the available options for the vehicle of your choice.
With Honda’s 2023 HR-V, there are a few available options for those willing to shell out more cash for a less-than-exciting experience. Included in the shortlist are things like all-wheel drive and the Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor, neither of which are particularly fun additions. You might prefer to have all-wheel drive or want all the driver-assist and safety features possible, so it is good that these are options.
Optional features for the 2023 Bronco Sport are too many to list, but some that stand out are the cargo management system, which includes a table, shelf, and divider for easy organization, the Topo Graphic Package, a wireless charging pad, a Bang & Olufsen with ten speakers and a subwoofer, the Class II Trailer Tow Package With Trailer Sway Control, the Black Diamond off-road package, the Outer Banks tech package, and the Big Bend convenience package. With such a wealth of optional features, it’s easy to see why people flock to the Bronco Sport over many other SUVs.
Whether you’re looking into the Bronco Sport because it looks fun to drive, you want an off-road vehicle that can double as a commuter, or you’re waxing nostalgic about one of the most well-loved vehicles in all of American history, there’s plenty to look forward to, from modern tech features to vintage comfort and styling, to performance aspects. Even though other vehicles, like the Honda HR-V, may be serviceable, they just can’t compare to the Ford Bronco Sport, an American classic.
Are you interested in the Ford Bronco Sport? Curious about what it would be like to get behind the wheel and experience some of the exciting features for yourself? Want to learn about the various trim levels and what they offer? Then come visit us at DePaula Ford––we love showing drivers how much fun the Ford Bronco Sport is, and we’re happy to answer all your questions. You can look at the various trim levels of the 2023 Bronco Sport model online or chat with one of our representatives if you have more detailed questions. or you can call our offices and speak with one of our friendly associates. We love when drivers visit, of course, so don’t be a stranger! Come see the 2023 Bronco Sport now.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
