RAM 1500 vs Ford Bronco Sport

The Hemi V8 is back for the 2026 model year, now marked by what Ram calls a “Symbol of Protest” badge. As much as we’d like to say it’s better than ever, it’s actually the same as it’s ever been. The 5.7-litre Hemi spins out 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque, well below the less-expensive Hurricane turbocharged inline-six’s 420 hp and 469 lb-ft, and way behind the optional High Output Hurricane engine’s 540 hp and 521 lb-ft. But the fact that it’s an option at all will be enough to entice some buyers back to the Ram fold.

Verdict: There’s a lot to like about the 2026 Ram 1500, including its characterful Hemi V8, but if you’re looking for the best version of Ram’s popular pickup, you should think long and hard about how you plan to use the truck. With 12 trim levels in Canada and two cab sizes and bed lengths to go along with its four powertrain choices, there are plenty of ways to configure a Ram truck to your exact needs.

Launched for the 2021 model year, the Ford Bronco Sport is a compact crossover SUV that combines the platform of the Ford Escape with the styling and off-road focus of its namesake. Ford doubles down on that for 2025, adding new option packages to further increase off-road capability, along with tech, styling, and interior updates.

Verdict: The Bronco Sport was designed primarily with off-road enthusiasts in mind, but it’s still a good all-around crossover.