2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
$10,075 less and 3 mpg better vs 84 more hp and 120 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $10,075 price gap, 181 vs 265 hp, 27 vs 24 MPG.
The Bronco Sport Big Bend leads on $10,075 less, 3 MPG better. The Highlander LE leads on 84 more hp, 120 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 Big Bend | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,845 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I3 Turbo | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.0 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 112.2" |
| Length | 172.7" | 194.9" |
| Width | 74.3" | 76.0" |
| Height | 70.2" | 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 Big Bend and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend starts at $31,845, $10,075 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $177/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when you want to keep $10,075 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $194/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when the extra 84 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 Big Bend or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend rates 27 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE produces 265 hp, 84 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 190 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 22.2″ longer at 194.9″ vs 172.7″. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE 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
How the Bronco Sport and Highlander Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend ($31,845) and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE ($41,920) solve similar problems in different ways. The $10,075 gap adds up to $177/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Bronco Sport vs Highlander
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend runs a 1.5L I3 Turbo; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has 84 more hp (265 vs 181). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 120 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 190), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend saves roughly $194/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $970. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is 22.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE has a 7.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when you want to keep $10,075 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when the extra 84 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $177/month more, the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE 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.