Lucas Bell 
Ford has finally pulled the cover off of the Bronco Sport, giving us our first real look at the rugged compact crossover. The smaller off-roader is available in five different trim levels, but this piece will tell you everything you need to know about the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport First Edition models.
Limited to just 2,000 units, the First Edition models will be powered by a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which is targeting a class-leading output of 245 horsepower and 275lb.-ft. of torque. That power is routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission, which features steering wheel mounted paddle shifters for maximum control on and off the tarmac.
Power is sent to all four wheels via an advanced all-wheel drive system, which features a class-exclusive twin-clutch rear-drive unit and locking rear differential. This system can move nearly 100 percent of rear axle torque to an individual wheel, which is unlike any other vehicle found in the segment. A load of additional coolers, including for the transmission and rear-drive unit, help to keep the Bronco Sport First Edition at peak performance on the trails for extended periods of time.
Underpinning the Ford Bronco Sport First Edition models is a fully-independent front and rear suspension layout, which features uniquely tuned front struts complete with hydraulic rebound stops and 46-millimeter-diameter monotube rear shocks, helping to smooth out the ride off-road. The spring rates and anti-roll bars have also been made softer, which will allow the Bronco Sport First Edition to have more articulation over the rough terrain. This system runs to the ground via a set of 17-inch Ebony Black-painted aluminum wrapped in 29 -inch all-terrain tires, the largest available on any Bronco Sport model. All First Edition models will arrive with the Class II Trailer Tow Package included.
Visually the Bronco Sport Badlands can be differentiated from the lower models by its blacked out Bronco grille, the Shadow Black hood and side door decals, as well as its Body-color door handles. Buyers will have the choice of speccing one of the following exterior color options: Area 51, Cactus Gray, Cyber Orange Tri-Coat and Rapid Red Tinted Clearcoat.
Inside you’ll find washable rubber flooring throughout, a Navy Pier Leather eight-way power driver’s seat, a six-way power front passenger’s seat, a heated leather steering wheel, a power moonroof, an 8-inch SYNC 4 infotainment screen, and a 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen Sound System. There’s even an available storage bin located below the second-row passenger-side seats for items that may become wet or muddy during your off-roading adventures.
The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport First Edition then might just be the version to get of the new compact crossover. While it may not come with the same perks as the Bronco Sport Badlands, it arrives with much of the same hardware.
Pricing information is not available at this time, but we will update you as soon as Ford clarifies.
