2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S vs 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend
On paper, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S wins on $5,870 less. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $5,870 price gap, 186 vs 181 hp, 27 vs 27 MPG.
The CX-30 2.5 S leads on $5,870 less. 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 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S | 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $25,975 | $31,845 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 186 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 186 lb-ft | 190 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.7 gal | 16.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,395 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 104.4" | 105.1" |
| Length | 173.0" | 172.7" |
| Width | 70.7" | 74.3" |
| Height | 61.4" | 70.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S starts at $25,975, $5,870 less than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at $31,845. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $104/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,870 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is the stronger pick when the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
Both achieve 27 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S or 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S produces 186 hp, 5 more than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend at 181 hp. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend also leads in torque at 190 lb-ft vs 186 lb-ft. The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S bigger than the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend?
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S is 0.3″ longer at 173.0″ vs 172.7″. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend has a 0.7″ 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: Mazda trims, Mazda CX-30 trims, Ford trims, Ford Bronco Sport trims
CX-30 vs Bronco Sport: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S and 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $5,870 gap adds up to $104/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 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend uses a 1.5L I3 Turbo. The 5 hp difference (186 vs 181) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: CX-30 vs Bronco Sport
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S when you want to keep $5,870 in your pocket and the 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend when the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $104/month more, the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend 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 Mazda or Ford or any dealership.