What is the difference between the 3 cylinder and 4 cylinder Bronco Sport?
The 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost prioritizes efficiency, while the 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost delivers stronger acceleration and more torque for off-road use.
In the Bronco Sport lineup, the engine choice shapes performance, towing, and daily usability. Here's how they compare across key areas.
Power and Performance
This section compares the engines in horsepower, torque, acceleration, and transmission details.
- 1.5L EcoBoost I3: 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4: 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque.
- Both engines pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission; availability of each engine varies by trim.
- 0-60 mph times: roughly 9 seconds with the 1.5L; around 6.5–7 seconds with the 2.0L (varying by trim and drivetrain).
In daily driving, the 1.5L is lively enough for most urban needs, and the 2.0L provides confident acceleration for highway merges and rugged terrain.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
What to expect in efficiency and day-to-day costs.
- 1.5L EcoBoost I3 typically delivers higher efficiency, with EPA estimates generally in the mid-20s to upper-20s mpg in combined driving, depending on trim and drivetrain.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 typically delivers lower mpg than the 1.5L, with combined figures in the low- to mid-20s depending on configuration.
- Real-world fuel economy varies with 4x4 vs. front-wheel drive, tire choice, and load.
- Fuel costs over time will be higher with the 2.0L due to higher fuel burn, though you gain more power for towing and off-road work.
For buyers prioritizing efficiency, the 1.5L is generally the smarter choice, while the 2.0L costs more upfront and at the pump but pays off in power and capability.
Capability and Practical Considerations
How each engine translates to towing, off-road ability, and daily practicality.
- Towing: Both engines offer up to about 2,000 pounds when properly equipped; actual capacity depends on trim and options.
- Off-road capability: The 2.0L’s greater torque helps with steep climbs and rough terrain; the 1.5L is capable but less formidable on rough trails.
- Ride and balance: The heavier 2.0L-equipped models can feel more planted on rugged surfaces but may ride firmer depending on tires and suspension.
Choice depends on how you plan to use the Bronco Sport — light trail use and city driving align with the 1.5L, while frequent towing or serious off-roading favors the 2.0L.
Which Engine Is Right For You?
Guidance based on lifestyle and budget.
- Budget-conscious buyers or those prioritizing efficiency: 1.5L three-cylinder.
- Trail enthusiasts or those who tow regularly: 2.0L four-cylinder.
- Trims and packages can influence availability; test drives are recommended to feel the difference in power and ride.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to how you plan to use the Bronco Sport: everyday commuting with occasional trips off-road, or regular adventures that demand extra torque and speed.
Summary
The Bronco Sport’s two EcoBoost engines deliver distinct benefits: the 1.5L three-cylinder prioritizes efficiency and nimble city driving, while the 2.0L four-cylinder provides stronger acceleration and enhanced off-road capability. Your choice depends on how you intend to use the SUV and whether you value fuel economy or raw power more. Both options pair with Ford’s eight-speed automatic transmission and available four-wheel-drive configurations, with towing up to about 2,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Are 3 cylinder Broncos any good?
The 3 cylinder is fine. It's the same engine that the Fiesta ST has, so it's not just an economy engine. I previously drove an Infiniti QX30 with a 208hp 4 cylinder turbo - there's not really much lacking with the 3 cyl bronco sport engine in my experience.
What is the difference between 1.5 L and 2.0 L engine Bronco Sport?
The main difference is performance: the 1.5L EcoBoost engine provides 181 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, while the more powerful 2.0L EcoBoost engine offers 250 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. The 2.0L is better for off-roading and highway driving, but it has lower fuel economy and higher cost compared to the standard 1.5L. The 1.5L is the standard engine on most trims, whereas the 2.0L is standard on the Badlands trim.
This video explains the performance difference between the two engines: 59sBearded Ford TechYouTube · Jun 19, 2024
| Feature | 1.5L EcoBoost | 2.0L EcoBoost |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 181 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 190 lb-ft | 277 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (EPA) | 25 city / 28 highway mpg | 21 city / 26 highway mpg |
| Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs | 2,200 lbs |
| Typical Trims | Standard on most models | Standard on Badlands |
| Performance | Adequate for daily driving | More power for acceleration and off-roading |
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Which is better 3 cylinder or 4-cylinder engine?
A 4-cylinder engine is better for performance and refinement due to smoother power delivery, while a 3-cylinder engine is better for fuel efficiency and a lower cost. The choice depends on your priorities: a 4-cylinder is smoother and more powerful for larger vehicles, whereas a 3-cylinder is more compact and fuel-sipping, ideal for smaller cars.
You can watch this video to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of 3-cylinder engines: 57sThe Engineers PostYouTube · Aug 5, 2022
| Feature | 3-Cylinder Engine | 4-Cylinder Engine |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Lower power output, especially at low RPMs; can feel underpowered in larger vehicles | Higher power output and more torque |
| Smoothness & Refinement | Less smooth, with more vibration and noise due to imbalanced firing order; requires balance shafts for improvement | Smoother operation with better-balanced power delivery |
| Fuel Efficiency | Generally more fuel-efficient due to lighter weight and fewer moving parts | Slightly less fuel-efficient due to extra weight and friction |
| Size & Cost | More compact and lighter, allowing for smaller engine bays; often cheaper to produce and maintain | Larger and heavier, occupying more space; typically more expensive to manufacture |
| Best for | Smaller cars, city driving, and fuel-conscious buyers | Larger vehicles, performance-oriented cars, and those prioritizing a smoother, quieter ride |
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What is the best engine for a Bronco Sport?
The top trims like the Badlands I own have a very powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine powerful enough to spin its special Falken WildPeak A/T3W tires on dry pavement, despite standard all-wheel drive.
