Do Broncos come in manual?
Yes. The Ford Bronco can be ordered with a manual transmission, but it is limited to the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a 7-speed manual. Most Broncos come with a 10-speed automatic, and the high-performance Bronco Raptor is automatic-only.
The following takes a closer look at how the manual option works, which configurations it applies to, and what buyers should consider when weighing a manual Bronco against the automatic versions.
Manual transmission availability in the Bronco lineup
What follows summarizes the core facts about when and where a manual is offered, and what the powertrain combinations look like in the current generation of Broncos.
- The 7-speed manual is available with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine in select Bronco configurations.
- The 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 is paired exclusively with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- The Bronco Raptor and other high-performance variants are offered with an automatic transmission only.
- Availability can vary by model year, trim, and market, so it is essential to check with a dealer for the exact options on a given vehicle.
In practice, this means if you want a Bronco with a manual, your best bet is to choose the 2.3L EcoBoost with the 7-speed manual, and you should confirm that the specific trim you want offers that configuration for the model year you’re considering.
What to expect from a Bronco with a manual
Choosing a manual Bronco centers on driving engagement and off-road control. A manual transmission can offer precise torque management at low speeds, which some off-road enthusiasts prize for rock crawling and delicate throttle application. However, the manual option is relatively rare in the lineup, and a majority of buyers will end up with the automatic for convenience, smoother highway cruising, and typically faster acceleration in many real-world conditions.
Before deciding, consider how you plan to use the vehicle, where you drive most often, and whether you’re prepared for the extra work that a manual can entail in heavy traffic or long commutes.
Buying considerations and tips for prospective buyers
These points help prospective buyers evaluate whether a manual Bronco fits their needs, and how to navigate the ordering process.
- If a manual appeal is a priority, verify that the specific model year and trim you want actually offers the 7-speed manual with the 2.3L EcoBoost.
- Be aware that the 2.7L EcoBoost and the Bronco Raptor deploy automatic transmissions only.
- Test drive both transmission options, paying attention to gear-shift feel, clutch effort, and overall drivability in off-road and on-road conditions.
- Factor in long-term maintenance and potential resale implications; some buyers prefer manuals for the driving experience, while others prioritize convenience and resale value in markets where automatics are the norm.
In short, a manual Bronco exists, but it’s not the default or widely available choice. Prospective buyers should confirm current availability with a local dealer and consider how important a manual transmission is to their intended use and daily driving.
Summary
To sum up, Broncos do come with a manual option, but it is limited to the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a 7-speed manual. The 2.7L EcoBoost and the Bronco Raptor are automatic-only. If a manual transmission is a must-have, confirm the exact model year and trim with a dealer before ordering, and be prepared for a more selective selection of configurations.
