Back in 2022, the Ford Bronco Sport was recognized by J.D. Power in its U.S. Seat Quality and Satisfaction Study, ranking among the top options in the mass market compact SUV segment after posting a score of 7.8 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100) thanks to its seats, which are manufactured by Lear Corporation. Interestingly, we haven’t seen the Ford Bronco Sport land on that same list for the past two years, but now that the 2025 U.S. Seat Quality and Satisfaction Study has been released, the crossover is back among the best in that regard.
The Ford Bronco Sport actually ranked first among its peers in the mass market small/compact SUV segment this time around, thanks to its score of 5.7 PP100, placing it ahead of the Ford Escape (6.6 PP100) and Kia Sportage (6.6 PP100). It’s a strong showing for the Ford Bronco Sport, particularly since overall automotive seat quality actually worsened by 0.3 PP100 year-over-year – the first such increase in nine years. The most frequently cited problems revolved around seat range adjustments, headrest comfort, and seat material scuff/soil.
The 2025 J.D. Power U.S. Seat Quality and Satisfaction Study is based on the responses of 92,694 vehicle purchasers and lessees of new 2025 model-year vehicles who were surveyed after 90 days of ownership. Seat quality was measured by the number of problems and level of satisfaction experienced per 100 vehicles during the first 90 days of ownership, with a lower score reflecting higher quality.
“Seat and powertrain are the two categories that most influence vehicle appeal and satisfaction,” said Lisa Boor, senior manager of auto benchmarking and mobility development at J.D. Power. “When vehicle owners experience issues with their seats, these problems have the second-highest effect on their APEAL rating among all measured vehicle areas. Increasing concerns regarding seat controls, particularly those that are complex or difficult to operate, such as memory and massage functions, are being observed in both premium and mass market segments.”
Just like the F-150 Lightning.
Due to an issue with power brake assist.
Bucking a flat trend that has perpetuated as of late.
Another way to change up the looks of the high-performance pickup.
In affected vehicles, the LED Driver Modules may contain a burnt diode.
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What's next JDP? A study about windshield glare? Go back to hiding save for twice a year.