Is a Ford Bronco good on gas?
Fuel economy on the Ford Bronco is generally average for a midsize SUV and varies by engine, tires, and how much you use four-wheel drive. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost models tend to be the most efficient, while the 2.7-liter V6 and heavier off-road configurations are less economical.
Engine options and their impact on fuel economy
This section explains the main gasoline powertrains and how they typically affect mpg, noting how gear choices and equipment influence efficiency.
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 with automatic or manual transmission in 4x4 setup. EPA estimates for the automatic 10‑speed version usually fall in the low 20s mpg combined (approximately 21–23 mpg combined, depending on body style and tires).
- 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with automatic transmission in 4x4 setup. This engine prioritizes power over economy, typically delivering around 19–21 mpg combined, varying with tires and equipment.
- Impact of off-road packages and tire size. Upgrades such as larger tires, added bumpers, winches, and other off-road gear reduce efficiency, especially when 4x4 or low-range gearing is used during off-road driving. Heavier, more aggressive tires can significantly lower mpg.
In practice, the Bronco’s mpg represent a trade-off: better on-road efficiency with a smaller, highway-focused setup and lower figures when fully outfitted for rugged off-road use. On paved highways with standard tires and the 2.3L EcoBoost, you’ll typically see mpg in the low 20s; the 2.7L and off-road configurations pull those numbers down, and real-world results depend on driving style and terrain.
Real-world factors that affect fuel economy
Beyond engine choice, several practical factors influence what you’ll actually get at the pump. The following items commonly affect Bronco fuel economy in everyday use.
- Tire size and type: Larger, more aggressive off-road tires raise rolling resistance and reduce mpg.
- Drivetrain usage: Frequent use of four-wheel drive and low-range gearing while off-roading lowers efficiency compared with highway driving.
- Vehicle weight and accessories: Roof racks, heavy bumpers, winches, and other gear add weight and drag, especially at highway speeds.
- Driving style and conditions: Rapid acceleration, high speeds, and stop-and-go urban driving reduce mpg; steady, moderate cruising helps.
With thoughtful configuration (smaller, less aggressive tires when you’re mostly driving on pavement) and mindful driving habits, you can improve real-world fuel economy, though it will remain lower than many sedans or crossovers in the same class.
Fuel economy by trim and year
EPA ratings and owner experiences show some variation by model year, trim, and tire choice. The ranges below reflect typical configurations seen on recent Broncos, with highway-oriented setups generally performing better than off-road-focused ones.
- 2.3L EcoBoost with automatic 4x4 (4-door): roughly 21 mpg city / 23 mpg highway, about 22–23 mpg combined with standard highway tires.
- 2.3L EcoBoost with manual or with larger wheel/tire upgrades: roughly 18–22 mpg combined depending on setup.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with automatic 4x4: typically around 19–21 mpg combined, lower with heavy off-road gear.
- Off-road oriented trims with 33-inch tires and additional gear: often in the 17–19 mpg combined range, and sometimes lower under strenuous off-road use.
These figures are approximate and can vary by model year, wheel size, and drivetrain configuration. Always check the EPA window sticker for the exact numbers on a specific Bronco you’re considering, and read current owner reports for real-world variation.
Ways to maximize mpg
To get the best possible fuel economy from a Bronco, consider these practical steps tailored to its design and typical use cases.
- Maintain proper tire pressure and align wheels as recommended to reduce rolling resistance.
- Prefer highway-appropriate tires with lower rolling resistance when you’re mainly driving on paved roads.
- Use efficient driving habits: steady speeds, gradual acceleration, and anticipation to minimize braking.
- Limit roof-mounted cargo and accessories when not needed to reduce aerodynamic drag.
- Use the most appropriate drivetrain setting for the conditions and avoid unnecessary 4x4 use on dry pavement.
These tips can yield noticeable improvements in real-world mileage, but the Bronco’s fundamental design prioritizes capability over maximum efficiency.
Summary
The Ford Bronco is built for rugged capability rather than outstanding fuel economy. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost offers the best efficiency among the main options, typically delivering mpg in the low 20s combined under many configurations, while the 2.7-liter V6 and off-road-focused setups with larger tires bring lower numbers. Real-world mileage depends heavily on tires, weight, and how you use four-wheel drive. For buyers, the key is balancing desired off-road capability with realistic fuel costs and adopting driving habits and configurations that optimize efficiency where possible.
Is a Bronco good for daily driving?
The Bronco is a great daily driver, very easy going and comfortable on the road. On a highway fuel economy isn't so bad, but if you're doing much stop start driving or in a hilly area it can get pretty bad.
What are the disadvantages of the Ford Bronco?
The following are the most common issues: The Ford Bronco's 1.5-liter EcoBoost 3-cylinder engine has been reported to lack power. It sometimes struggles up steep inclines and has sluggish acceleration. It has also been known to stall, rough idle, and even turn off by itself.
Are the Ford Broncos good on gas?
2022 Ford Bronco Gas Mileage by trim level
For starters, the all-new Ford Bronco delivers a fuel economy rating of up to an EPA-estimated 20 city and 21 highway mpg with Base 2-Door and 4-Door, Big Bend 2-Door and 4-Door, Outer Banks 2-Door and 4-Door, Outer Banks Advanced 4-Door and Everglades 4-Door.
Why is no one buying Broncos?
And over the last couple of years there are certain models of the Broncos with dealer markups of $5,000 to $10,000. And some even reaching $20,000. Over MSRP. Which has now led to the Broncos.
