Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch Prototype First Drive

The Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch Prototype is an exciting glimpse into what the compact Bronco could look like with the legendary Sasquatch package,

which has been a fan-favorite feature on the full-size Ford Bronco. The Sasquatch package, known for

its aggressive off-road capabilities, was originally exclusive to the larger Bronco, but seeing it on the Bronco Sport is a big deal—offering a mix of compact agility and extreme off-road performance.

Here’s a breakdown of what stood out during the first drive of the Bronco Sport Sasquatch Prototype:

1. Off-Road Performance
The key highlight of the Bronco Sport Sasquatch prototype is its enhanced off-road capabilities. The Sasquatch package on the full-size Bronco includes upgraded suspension, larger tires (around 33 inches), and better clearance, and the prototype for the Bronco Sport carries those same upgrades. This translates to:

Better ground clearance and suspension travel.

Larger, more aggressive tires that give the Sport a more capable presence on dirt trails, rocks, and loose terrain.

Increased approach and departure angles, which help the Sport tackle steep inclines and declines with more confidence.

It’s an off-road-ready SUV that can now take on trails with the same kind of durability you’d expect from the larger Bronco, but with more agility.

2. Refined Handling and Comfort
While off-road performance is the main focus, the Bronco Sport Sasquatch prototype still maintains good road manners. The higher suspension allows for a smoother ride on rugged terrain, but it doesn’t completely compromise on comfort when driving on the pavement. The dual-purpose design makes it a solid daily driver for those who need a vehicle that can handle both urban roads and off-road adventures with ease.

3. Powertrain and Performance
The prototype comes with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which produces around 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque—a strong engine for a compact SUV. This powertrain, combined with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and four-wheel drive system, allows the Sasquatch-equipped Bronco Sport to easily tackle rocky trails and challenging obstacles, while still offering decent fuel efficiency for its size.

4. Trail-Ready Features
The Sasquatch package adds more to the Bronco Sport’s already impressive off-road kit:

Trail Control System: A sort of off-road cruise control, making it easier to traverse tricky terrain.

Terrain Management System with multiple driving modes (like Sand, Rock Crawl, Mud/Ruts) for different off-road conditions.

Locking differentials: This helps with traction, particularly in situations where one wheel may be off the ground, like on rocky terrain.

With the Sasquatch package, you also get additional skid plates to protect the undercarriage from rocks and debris. These features, combined with the compact size of the Sport, make it extremely capable for a small SUV.

5. Unique Design
The Sasquatch prototype maintains the rugged and bold design elements of the regular Bronco Sport but gives it a more aggressive look with:

Larger, knobby tires that give it an “all-business” stance.

Fender flares and high-clearance suspension that enhance its off-road-ready vibe.

A slightly more aggressive front bumper and grille design, giving it a tougher, more formidable presence on the road and trail.

Even though the Bronco Sport is a smaller SUV than the full-size Bronco, the Sasquatch package adds a bit of visual muscle to it.

6. Potential for Future Production
While the Bronco Sport Sasquatch is still a prototype, there’s been a lot of buzz around the idea of Ford releasing it as a production model. The compact off-road segment is growing, and this would certainly be a compelling choice for people who want the Bronco’s off-road capabilities but don’t need the full-size truck platform.