They share a name, a rugged look and standard four-wheel drive, but the Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are built for different lives. If you live in Sarcoxie, Joplin, Carthage, Monett or Aurora and are deciding between the two, here's a straightforward breakdown, plus what we have on the lot right now.
The Short Answer
Choose the Bronco Sport if you want a compact, easy-to-drive SUV for daily life that can still handle gravel roads, muddy lanes and weekend trips to the lake. Choose the Bronco if off-roading is a big part of why you're buying, or if you want a removable roof and doors.
Size and Everyday Driving
The Bronco Sport is a compact SUV. It parks easily in Joplin, fits narrow farm lanes and rides comfortably on daily commutes along I-44 or Route 37. It seats five, and its boxy shape and upright rear hatch make it easy to load groceries, sports bags or a dog crate.
The Bronco is a body-on-frame 4x4 built first for off-road use. It feels more truck-like, with a taller seating position and heavier-duty suspension. Plenty of people drive one every day, but it's tuned for the trail first.
Engines and Towing
The 2026 Bronco comes standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost making 300 horsepower. A 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with 330 horsepower is available, and the Bronco Raptor steps up to a 3.0L EcoBoost V6. Most Bronco models tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, enough for a small boat, a utility trailer or a couple of ATVs.
Most Bronco Sport trims use an efficient 1.5L EcoBoost that's well suited to daily driving, and the Badlands trim steps up to a stronger 2.0L EcoBoost. If towing matters to you, ask us for the exact rating on the model you're considering.
4x4 for Missouri Winters
Both models come with four-wheel drive and G.O.A.T. Modes (Goes Over Any Terrain), which adjust the vehicle for different surfaces. That helps on the icy back roads and slushy hills southwest Missouri sees most winters. Paired with good tires, either one is a big step up from a front-wheel-drive car when the weather turns.
Open-Air Fun vs. Everyday Practicality
Only the Bronco offers a removable roof and doors, which make for a fun summer drive around Table Rock or Grand Lake. Higher Bronco trims such as Badlands add hardware for serious trails. The Bronco Sport trades that open-air feel for a quieter cabin, easier entry and a hatch that's handy for daily errands.
What We Have in Stock
Right now at Sarcoxie Ford, we have 2026 Bronco Base and Big Bend models, plus 2026 and 2027 Bronco Sport Outer Banks models, the more upscale Bronco Sport trim. See all new Bronco and Bronco Sport inventory, or shop Bronco Sport only. For trims, engines and features, read our 2026 Ford Bronco research page.
Shopping Used?
A pre-owned Bronco or Bronco Sport can save you money. Check that the 4x4 engages, look at the tire tread and ask for service records. Our used inventory changes weekly, and you can value your trade or apply for financing online before you visit.
Drive Both Back to Back
The best way to choose is to drive them on the same day. Sarcoxie Ford is at 1517 High Street in Sarcoxie, just off I-44 and an easy drive from Joplin, Carthage, Monett, Aurora, Mount Vernon and Crane. Call our sales team at 866-718-9988 or send us a message, and we'll have a Bronco and a Bronco Sport ready when you arrive.