Do they make a 3 cylinder Bronco?

The Bronco lineup does not offer a 3-cylinder engine in the standard full-size model. If you’re seeking a Bronco with a three-cylinder powerplant, your only practical option is the smaller Bronco Sport, which uses a 1.5-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder as its base engine. The main Bronco lineup relies on four- and six-cylinder engines, and the high-performance Bronco Raptor uses a V6, not a three-cylinder.

Engines in the full-size Bronco

Below are the primary engine options for the full-size Ford Bronco. Note that none of these configurations use a three-cylinder setup.

• 2.3L EcoBoost inline-four turbocharged engine


• 2.7L EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine


• 3.0L EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine available on the Bronco Raptor

In the full-size Bronco lineup, three-cylinder power is not offered. The 3.0L V6 option on the Bronco Raptor remains a V6, not a three-cylinder configuration.

Bronco Sport: the Bronco variant with a 3-cylinder option

The Bronco Sport, the smaller member of the family, provides a three-cylinder option in its base configuration. This model also offers a more powerful four-cylinder alternative for those seeking extra performance.

• 1.5L EcoBoost inline-three turbocharged engine


• 2.0L EcoBoost inline-four turbocharged engine

For those specifically seeking a three-cylinder Bronco, the Bronco Sport’s 1.5L EcoBoost I3 is the relevant option. The Bronco Sport does not offer a three-cylinder configuration in the full-size Bronco, and the high-performance Bronco Raptor continues to use a V6 rather than a three-cylinder.

Summary

Bottom line: There is no three-cylinder option for the standard, full-size Ford Bronco. If you want a three-cylinder engine within the Bronco family, you would look to the Bronco Sport with its 1.5L EcoBoost I3. For higher-power full-size Bronco variants, you can choose the 2.3L I4, 2.7L V6, or the 3.0L V6 in the Bronco Raptor. Engine availability can vary by model year and market, so check with a dealer for the latest specifics.

What is the disadvantage of a 3-cylinder engine?

The main disadvantages of a 3-cylinder engine are increased vibration, noise, and a lack of power, especially at high speeds. This is because an odd number of cylinders creates an unbalanced firing order, leading to a less refined and rougher feel compared to engines with an even number of cylinders like a 4-cylinder. Additionally, some of these smaller engines can be sluggish and less responsive, particularly during quick acceleration or under heavy loads.
 
Vibration and noise

• Natural imbalance: The uneven number of cylinders can cause a natural imbalance, leading to more noticeable vibrations, especially at idle and during acceleration. 
• Lack of refinement: The engine can feel less smooth and refined than larger engines due to this imbalance. 
• Increased noise: With less mass to absorb vibrations and noise, these engines can produce a louder, whinier, or rougher sound. 

Performance limitations

• Lower power: Three-cylinder engines typically produce less power than their larger counterparts. 
• Poor high-RPM power: They can struggle at higher speeds or RPMs, making them feel "gutless" when trying to pass other vehicles or merge onto highways. 
• Turbo lag: Some turbocharged 3-cylinder engines may experience significant turbo lag, a delayed response from the turbocharger when you press the accelerator. 
• Limited for heavy-duty tasks: They are not as suited for heavy towing duties as engines with more cylinders, as they are less capable of handling heavy stress. 

Is the 1.5 L 3 cylinder Ford engine reliable?

Like most modern engines, the "Dragon" 1.5L EcoBoost is reliable with regular maintenance, but early versions weren't without hiccups. Some early Escape and Bronco Sport models experienced coolant intrusion issues, which could lead to engine damage if not caught early.

What Fords have a 3-cylinder engine?

Ford offers three-cylinder engines in various vehicles, including the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport (1.5L EcoBoost) and the Fiesta ST (1.5L EcoBoost). Earlier models also featured a 1.0L EcoBoost in the discontinued EcoSport. The 1.5L EcoBoost in the Escape can produce 181 horsepower, and both the Escape and Bronco Sport models are considered reliable with regular maintenance, although some early models had coolant-related issues.
 
This video provides a detailed review of the Ford Escape's 1.5L three-cylinder engine: 1mBeyond The Test DriveYouTube · Apr 15, 2023
Current models with 3-cylinder engines

• Ford Escape: The 1.5L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It's considered a good engine that offers responsive acceleration. 
• Ford Bronco Sport: Also features the 1.5L EcoBoost engine, which provides adequate performance for daily commutes. 
• Ford Fiesta ST: This performance model uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine. 

Other models and engine variations

• Ford EcoSport: The now-discontinued EcoSport offered a 1.0L EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine. 
• Ford Aspire and Figo: Used a 1.5-liter Ti-VCT 3-cylinder petrol engine. 
• Other 3-cylinder engines: Ford has developed other 3-cylinder engines, including 1.0L, 1.1L, and 1.2L variations, which are used in different global markets. 

Performance and reliability

• Performance: Modern Ford 3-cylinder engines, like the 1.5L EcoBoost, offer good performance with responsive acceleration and decent torque, especially at lower RPMs. 
• Reliability: With proper maintenance, Ford's 3-cylinder EcoBoost engines are generally considered reliable. However, some early models of the 1.5L EcoBoost in the Escape and Bronco Sport had coolant intrusion issues that could lead to engine damage if not addressed early. 
• Fuel Efficiency: Three-cylinder engines are often smaller and lighter, contributing to better fuel efficiency. 

This video reviews the Ford Escape's 1.5L turbocharged three-cylinder engine: 58sThe Ben Hardy ShowYouTube · Mar 26, 2023

Does the Bronco have a 3-cylinder engine?

The Bronco Sport's base model is powered by an 180-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine that's borrowed from the Ford Escape.