Is the V6 Bronco better?

The V6 Bronco offers more power and towing capability, but it costs more and uses more fuel than the four-cylinder version. Whether it's the right pick depends on how you plan to use the Bronco and how much you value performance over efficiency.

In this article, we compare the V6 option with the base four-cylinder across performance, efficiency, price, and real-world use, to help buyers decide which engine suits their needs.

Power and performance

Key metrics and how they translate to everyday driving and off-road capability.

• 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6: about 330 horsepower and around 415 lb-ft of torque, delivering strong midrange grunt and confident acceleration on- and off-road.


• 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4: about 300 horsepower and roughly 325 lb-ft of torque, with brisk but more modest acceleration by comparison.


• Transmission and drivetrains: both engines pair with Ford's 10-speed automatic and four-wheel drive, but the V6's extra torque helps when crawling over obstacles or towing.


• Real-world feel: on upgraded off-road rigs, the V6 tends to feel more assured at higher speeds and when carrying gear, while the I4 can feel nimble and efficient in light-duty use.

In practice, the V6's benefits appear most when the vehicle is loaded, climbing hills, or negotiating challenging terrain; the added power can reduce throttle effort and improve control.

Fuel economy and price

Cost and efficiency are major considerations for most buyers, so here’s how the engines compare on those fronts.

• Price: selecting the V6 typically adds several thousand dollars to the Bronco's sticker price versus the four-cylinder model, depending on trim and options.


• Fuel economy: the V6 generally consumes more fuel than the I4, especially in urban driving or aggressive off-road use; EPA ratings vary by model year and configuration, but expect a difference that favors the I4 in many daily scenarios.


• Maintenance and repair costs: turbocharged V6 engines and their intake systems can incur higher maintenance costs and complexity compared with the smaller, four-cylinder option.


• Long-term value: resale appetite for the V6/plus-torque variants can be strong among buyers who plan to tow or overland, potentially offsetting some of the upfront cost.

For buyers prioritizing value and efficiency, the I4 often makes more sense; for those who need extra capability, the V6 can justify the premium.

Who should consider the V6 Bronco?

Identifying the right use case helps clarify whether the V6 is the better choice.

• Tow or haul frequently: if you routinely pull trailers or carry heavy loads, the V6's torque makes a meaningful difference.


• Overlanding and rough terrain: when terrain calls for strong low-end torque and confident throttle response, the V6 shines, especially in higher trim levels with advanced suspensions.


• High-speed on-road driving with frequent passing: the extra power can reduce throttle lag in highway scenarios.


• Budget-conscious daily driver: if your Bronco mainly serves as a weekend toy or daily commuter with light loads, the I4 is typically the more economical long-term choice.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on how you plan to use your Bronco: for payload, towing, and ambitious off-road adventures, the V6 offers tangible advantages; for efficiency and budget-minded ownership, the four-cylinder is often sufficient.

Bottom line

The V6 Bronco is not universally "better"—it delivers more power and capability in exchange for higher cost and lower efficiency. Prospective buyers should weigh their towing needs, typical driving conditions, and budget before choosing.

Summary

For buyers who value raw power, strong torque, and potential for heavier loads, the V6 Bronco stands out as the capable choice. If efficiency, upfront price, and daily practicality take priority, the four-cylinder Bronco remains a compelling option. The best engine choice depends on how you intend to use the vehicle, and Ford continues to offer both configurations to suit different lifestyles.

Is it better to have a 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder?

Neither is definitively better; a 6-cylinder engine generally offers more power and smoothness, making it ideal for performance or heavy-duty applications, while a 4-cylinder is usually better for fuel efficiency and is more common in smaller, cost-effective cars. The "better" engine depends on what you prioritize, such as power, fuel economy, or cost. 
This video explains the pros and cons of both V6 and 4-cylinder engines: 46s4 Old School Car GuysYouTube · Jul 15, 2024
6-cylinder engines

• Pros: More horsepower and torque, better for towing and hauling, generally smoother and quieter operation. 
• Cons: Worse fuel economy, higher cost to purchase and maintain. 
• Best for: Performance vehicles, SUVs, trucks, and drivers who need to tow or who prioritize a smoother, quieter ride. 

4-cylinder engines

• Pros: Better fuel economy, lower purchase cost, smaller and lighter. 
• Cons: Less power and torque, can feel less smooth than a 6-cylinder, especially without turbocharging. 
• Best for: Commuting, city driving, and budget-conscious buyers who want better fuel efficiency. 

This video compares the performance and fuel efficiency of both engines: 59sScotty KilmerYouTube · May 9, 2020
The role of turbocharging

• Increased power: Modern 4-cylinder engines are often turbocharged, which can give them power outputs comparable to naturally aspirated 6-cylinders. 
• Compromise: A turbocharged 4-cylinder can provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, though it may not offer the same level of smoothness as a 6-cylinder. 

You can watch this video to learn how turbochargers improve the performance of 4-cylinder engines: 17sForged 4x4YouTube · Sep 14, 2025

What is the best engine for the Ford Bronco?

The best Bronco engine depends on your needs: the 3.0L V6 in the Bronco Raptor is the most powerful for extreme performance, while the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is the top choice for a balance of power and towing in the standard lineup. For those prioritizing simplicity and potentially lower repair costs, the 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder is a reliable and capable option, especially for manual transmission enthusiasts. 
For maximum power and off-road performance

• 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 (Bronco Raptor): This is the most powerful engine, engineered for extreme performance with 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. 

You can watch this video to learn about the performance differences between the 2.3L and 2.7L EcoBoost engines: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Feb 25, 2025
For a balance of power and utility

• 2.7L EcoBoost V6: This engine is great for everyday driving, towing, and general off-roading, offering more power than the 2.3L. It's considered very reliable and is the top engine choice in the standard Bronco lineup.
• For 2026 models: This engine is getting upgrades for even more power and efficiency. 

This video demonstrates how to install a performance intercooler to increase the power of your Bronco engine: 1mBuckle Up ButtercupYouTube · Jun 23, 2025
For simplicity and efficiency

• 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder: This is the most efficient engine and a solid, reliable choice, especially for those who prefer the manual transmission or are concerned about the complexity of having two turbos (on the V6s). 
• It provides plenty of power for most situations and is the most approachable engine for many drivers. 

Is a 2.3 EcoBoost better than a V6?

The performance difference between the two engines is significant. While the 2.3L EcoBoost is more than adequate for most drivers, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 offers a level of performance that rivals some sports cars.

Is the Ford 4.0 L V6 a good engine?

The Ford 4.0L V6 is generally considered a good engine, especially the older, overheads valve (OHV) version, which is praised for its reliability and longevity. However, its counterpart, the single overhead camshaft (SOHC) version, has a significant drawback: a notorious and costly timing chain issue.
 
This video discusses the pros and cons of the Ford 4.0L V6 engine: 56sSVT EvanYouTube · Oct 17, 2022
The reliable OHV 4.0L V6

• Durability: The older OHV (pushrod) 4.0L engine is known for being a very durable and long-lasting workhorse. 
• Longevity: Many owners report high mileage, with some reaching well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
• Common issues: While reliable, some common issues include potential cylinder head cracking or premature wear on rocker arms. 

The problematic SOHC 4.0L V6

• Timing chain failure: The biggest issue with the SOHC engine is the timing chains, guides, and tensioners. 
• Costly repairs: The passenger-side timing chain is on the back of the engine, making it an extremely labor-intensive and expensive repair that often requires removing the engine and/or transmission. 
• Common symptoms: A common symptom is a "rattle" that is most noticeable on a cold start, which can worsen over time. 
• Other issues: Other problems include leaks from the thermostat housing and intake gaskets. 

Conclusion

• If you are looking for a reliable engine, the older OHV 4.0L is a great choice, as long as it has been properly maintained. 
• However, be very cautious if considering the SOHC 4.0L V6. While some units have lasted a long time, the potential for a costly timing chain failure is a significant risk.