18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s not the point of the 2022 Ford Bronco Sasquatch 4WD 2.3L. This is a machine built for off-road domination, a modern version of the original Bronco’s go-anywhere attitude. Fuel efficiency is second to ground clearance, aggressive tires, and the rock-crawling hardware that defines the Sasquatch package. Buyers of this Bronco variant understand and accept this tradeoff; they’re more concerned with conquering trails than saving a few dollars at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA splits the Bronco Sasquatch’s fuel economy into 18 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. This close performance suggests that the aerodynamic limitations of the Bronco’s upright design and oversized tires play a big role, regardless of driving environment. Expect changes based on driving style. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will push fuel consumption far beyond these ratings, while a gentle touch and slower speeds might yield slightly better results. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine, while punchy enough for most situations, needs to work harder to move the heavy Bronco with its increased rolling resistance. This is not a vehicle engineered for optimized highway cruising; it’s happiest at slower speeds, tackling technical terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Ford Bronco Sasquatch 4WD 2.3L at approximately $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with fuel prices reflecting the national average at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and the price of gasoline. Considering the Bronco Sasquatch’s tendency for off-road adventures, expect to potentially exceed this annual fuel cost, especially if you frequently venture far from paved roads. Some owners offset this by using websites offering fuel rewards.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can differ. Bronco Sasquatch owners often report numbers slightly below the EPA estimates, especially those who spend time off-road or in stop-and-go traffic. Factors like tire pressure, modifications (such as aftermarket bumpers or roof racks), and weather conditions can impact fuel consumption. It’s important to track your own mileage and get a sense of your typical fuel economy in your specific driving conditions. Don’t be surprised if you see numbers in the 15-19 MPG range as your normal average.

How it compares

Compared to its closest competitor, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4-door with the 2.0L turbo engine, the Bronco Sasquatch’s fuel economy is roughly similar; the Wrangler Rubicon 4-door is rated at 20 MPG combined. However, the Wrangler offers a broader range of powertrain options, including a diesel and a plug-in hybrid (4xe), that offer better fuel economy. A comparable Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro manages around 17 MPG combined, making the Bronco Sasquatch about average for this class of off-road-focused SUVs. If fuel economy is a primary concern, vehicles like the Land Rover Defender 110 with the P300 engine (19 MPG combined) present a slightly more efficient, but more expensive, alternative. However, buyers choosing the Bronco Sasquatch are typically prioritizing off-road capability and a specific aesthetic over maximizing fuel efficiency; they also value being able to access all all Ford fuel economy data in one convenient location.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, but it’s especially critical for the Bronco Sasquatch with its large, off-road tires. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) found on the door jamb sticker. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can negatively impact fuel economy and tire wear.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The Bronco’s 2.3L EcoBoost engine consumes fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate a prolonged wait, such as at a traffic light or waiting for someone, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. Restarting the engine consumes very little fuel compared to idling for extended periods.

Gentle acceleration and braking can improve fuel economy. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard braking, as these actions require more energy and consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing any unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo carrier. These accessories can create wind resistance, especially at higher speeds, which negatively impacts fuel economy. If you’re not actively using these accessories, remove them to improve your Bronco’s aerodynamic profile.

Consider the terrain when off-roading. While the Bronco Sasquatch is built to tackle challenging terrain, choosing less demanding routes can help conserve fuel. Avoid unnecessary wheel spin and maintain a steady pace to minimize fuel consumption during off-road adventures. The BRONCO MPG across all years has remained relatively consistent.