25 MPG combined, from an all-wheel-drive, lifted, knobby-tired Ford Bronco Sport? That number shows Ford’s commitment to delivering legitimate off-road chops, even in its smallest Bronco variant, without completely abandoning the realities of daily driving and fuel stops. For the 2026 Bronco Sport Sasquatch 4WD with the 1.5L three-cylinder engine, this 25 MPG isn’t just an average. It tells you about its intended owner. This person wants to conquer a rocky trail but also needs to commute to work without excessive guilt at the pump.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the 25 MPG combined rating reveals 24 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This near-even split is rather telling for a vehicle equipped with the Sasquatch package, which typically includes more aggressive all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and potentially wider fenders. All these elements usually work against aerodynamic efficiency and rolling resistance. The fact that the highway number only nudges past the city by 2 MPG speaks to the inherent characteristics of the Sasquatch build. In stop-and-go city traffic, the compact 1.5-liter three-cylinder, paired with the quick-shifting 8-speed automatic, can operate efficiently, making the most of its low-end torque. On the highway, those beefy tires and the less aerodynamic profile, even on a relatively small SUV, present more resistance, preventing the highway figure from soaring much higher. This balance reflects the vehicle’s dual personality, a capable off-roader that’s surprisingly civil in urban environments, rather than a dedicated highway cruiser.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for this particular Bronco Sport Sasquatch. This figure is precisely calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split between city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. It’s a transparent projection designed to give prospective buyers a clear understanding of what they can expect to spend over a year for fuel. It does not account for individual driving habits, local fuel prices, or the specific cost of premium fuel, which this vehicle does not require. For the adventurous spirit eyeing the Sasquatch package, this $1,750 is a manageable line item, representing the cost of entry for its enhanced capability without being prohibitive. It’s a cost that owners will consider part of the experience, knowing they’re getting a unique blend of ruggedness and practicality.

Real-world expectations

Owners of the 2026 Bronco Sport Sasquatch 4WD with the 1.5L three-cylinder aren’t typically buying it for class-leading fuel economy. They are buying it because it presents an accessible, compact, and highly capable off-road package. They want the distinctive Bronco styling, the enhanced ground clearance, the strong tires, and the “G.O.A.T. Modes” (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) for weekend adventures. Real-world fuel economy will likely hover very close to the EPA’s 25 MPG combined, possibly dipping slightly if the vehicle spends a significant amount of time tackling challenging off-road trails where engine нагрузка is higher and speeds are low. Conversely, a gentle highway cruise on flat terrain might see it nudge past 26 MPG. The key here is the buyer’s acceptance of this range. They understand that a vehicle designed to climb rocks and traverse muddy paths, even one with a small displacement engine, won’t deliver sedan-like efficiency. They prioritize capability and character, and the 25 MPG is a reasonable compromise for the fun and versatility the Sasquatch package unlocks. This isn’t a vehicle for the mileage miser, it’s for the weekend warrior who wants to get there efficiently enough to enjoy the destination.

How it compares

When placed alongside its peers, the Bronco Sport Sasquatch’s 25 MPG is quite competitive, especially considering its off-road enhancements. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk 4×4, a direct competitor in terms of rugged compact SUVs, often registers around 24 MPG combined (22 city/27 highway) with its 2.4L engine or similar figures with newer powertrains. The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, despite its off-road focus, typically achieves 27 MPG combined (25 city/29 highway) from its 2.5L engine, but it doesn’t quite offer the same level of trail-rated prowess or the same aesthetic as the Bronco Sport. Even stepping up to the larger BRONCO MPG across all years, where true Sasquatch packages are common, the fuel economy figures drop significantly into the high teens or very low 20s. For someone demanding dedicated off-road capability in a smaller, more maneuverable footprint, the Bronco Sport Sasquatch delivers a package that lets them access adventure without severe financial penalty. For additional insight into Ford’s broad lineup, explore all Ford fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Bronco Sport Sasquatch is built for adventure, a few mindful practices can help its 1.5L three-cylinder deliver its best possible fuel economy. Pay close attention to tire pressure, those aggressive all-terrain tires have a significant impact on rolling resistance, and keeping them properly inflated to recommended specs can noticeably reduce fuel consumption on paved roads.

Avoid unnecessary weight. While the Bronco Sport’s cargo capacity is good, regularly hauling heavy gear or unused accessories decreases efficiency, especially for a vehicle with a smaller displacement engine that works harder to move mass.

Practice smooth acceleration and braking. The 1.5L engine delivers good low-end torque, but aggressive starts and sudden stops force it to work harder and consume more fuel, particularly in city driving where its 24 MPG rating can fluctuate.

Use the “Eco” G.O.A.T. Mode if available or maintain a light foot. While the various terrain modes are excellent for their intended purpose, on paved roads, a focus on gentle throttle inputs and staying within the engine’s efficient RPM band will yield the best results.

Plan your routes. For adventure-seekers, this often means understanding the terrain. Minimizing long highway slogs with those knobby tires and opting for more direct, well-maintained paths when not actively off-roading can save fuel. The Bronco Sport thrives off-road, but its efficiency is best preserved when it’s not being pushed unnecessarily hard on pavement.