2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands vs 2026 Kia Sorento SX
$2,025 less and awd vs 31 more hp and 34 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,025 price gap, 250 vs 281 hp, 24 vs 23 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Badlands leads on $2,025 less, AWD. The Sorento SX leads on 31 more hp, 34 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Kia Sorento SX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $40,265 | $42,290 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 250 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 277 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,074 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 110.8" |
| Length | 172.7" | 189.6" |
| Width | 74.3" | 74.8" |
| Height | 71.4" | 66.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands starts at $40,265, $2,025 less than the 2026 Kia Sorento SX at $42,290. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $36/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 $2,025 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $76/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX is the stronger pick when the extra 31 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands rates 24 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands or 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX produces 281 hp, 31 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands at 250 hp. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 277 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands, FWD on the 2026 Kia Sorento SX.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands bigger than the 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX is 16.9″ longer at 189.6″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX has a 5.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2026 Kia Sorento SX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Ford Bronco Sport comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Sorento offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims, Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims
Bronco Sport vs Sorento: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands and 2026 Kia Sorento SX sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,025 gap is about $36/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands runs a 2.0L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX has 31 more hp (281 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX adds 34 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 277), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Bronco Sport vs Sorento
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands saves roughly $76/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $380.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX is 16.9″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX has a 5.7″ 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 $2,025 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Kia Sorento SX when the extra 31 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $36/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Kia or any dealership.