2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands vs 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited
$9,260 less vs 33 more lb-ft torque and 22.2″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $9,260 price gap, 250 vs 265 hp, 24 vs 24 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on $9,260 less. The Highlander Limited leads on 33 more lb-ft torque, 22.2″ longer. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands | 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,265 | $49,525 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,453 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 112.2" |
| Length | 172.7" | 194.9" |
| Width | 74.3" | 76.0" |
| Height | 71.4" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $40,265, $9,260 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited at $49,525. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $163/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands is the stronger pick when you want to keep $9,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited is the stronger pick when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited?
Both achieve 24 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited produces 265 hp, 15 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at 250 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 277 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited is 22.2″ longer at 194.9″ vs 172.7″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
Bronco Sport vs Highlander: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $9,260 gap adds up to $163/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 15 hp difference (265 vs 250) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited adds 33 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 277), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Bronco Sport vs Highlander
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited is 22.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands when you want to keep $9,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited when you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo. At $163/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Ford or Toyota or any dealership.