Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs Ford Bronco Sport

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport was introduced as a smaller sibling to the much-anticipated Bronco, capturing the rugged spirit of its predecessor while offering a more urban-friendly design. It featured a modern retro aesthetic reminiscent of Land Rover, with short front and rear overhangs for improved off-road capability. The Bronco Sport's design was practical for trail driving, with tall fender wells and minimal adornments to avoid snagging on obstacles. The bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, along with the modest Ford badge, added to its distinctive look. Inside, the Bronco Sport offered a rugged yet tasteful interior, with a focus on functionality and convenience, including an 8-inch infotainment screen and a rotary gear selector.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged appearance. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, which some found visually heavy. The rear design echoed the front's trapezoidal theme, but the overall look felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements added interest, while the infotainment system was positioned for easy access. The Bronze Edition introduced unique design elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was criticized for its impracticality in a family vehicle.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine options: a 1.5-litre EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque for the Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims, and a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder engine producing 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque for the Badlands model. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with a terrain management system offering up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, thanks to its short wheelbase, independent suspension, and generous ground clearance. On-road, it provided a comfortable ride, though the 1.5-litre engine could feel strained under pressure.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system, delivering a combined 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle when needed. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth ride, though the engine's drone during hard acceleration was noticeable. The Highlander Hybrid's braking system seamlessly transitioned from regenerative to physical braking, and its suspension offered a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport catered to active buyers with features like a cargo area designed to accommodate two 27.5-inch-wheel mountain bikes and a catalog of over 100 accessories for outdoor gear. The roof could support up to 68 kg, and the 2.0-litre engine could tow up to 997 kg. The cargo area included a flip-up rear glass and optional features like a slide-out work table and liftgate floodlamps. The front cabin offered ample storage, though taller drivers might find visibility challenging due to the roof overhang and hood bulges.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a centre armrest bin, and large door pockets. The second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added comfort. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and up to 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with SYNC 3, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system was available on higher trims. The terrain management system offered up to seven G.O.A.T. modes, with trail control technology for off-roading. Intelligent access with push-button start was standard on all but the Base model, and higher trims included a digital instrument panel.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also available on higher trims.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport included the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, such as pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The Bronco Sport received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. A surround view camera and head-up display were available on the Platinum trim. Some safety systems required fine-tuning, such as the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.