21 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2021 Ford Bronco 4WD with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. Those attracted to the Bronco’s retro styling and off-road capability should expect this. Buyers aren’t expecting Prius-like efficiency; they’re buying a symbol of adventure, a machine designed to conquer trails, and the fuel economy is a necessary compromise for that capability and image.

City and highway performance

The 2.3L EcoBoost Bronco gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the vehicle’s design. The Bronco’s boxy shape and elevated ride height give it its distinctive looks and off-road capability, and they also create aerodynamic challenges that hurt fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. In the city, the stop-and-go driving makes the Bronco’s weight and inertia more apparent, leading to the 20 MPG rating. While the 10-speed automatic transmission helps optimize efficiency, it can only do so much.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ford Bronco 4WD 2.3L is $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Remember that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary based on your driving habits, city versus highway driving, and fuel prices. Drivers who frequently go off-road should expect to spend more on fuel, as driving on difficult terrain will lower MPG.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures offer a baseline, but real-world MPG for the 2021 Ford Bronco with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine often falls slightly below those numbers. This is a common trend across vehicles, but with the Bronco, individual results can vary even more than usual. Aggressive driving, adding aftermarket accessories (such as roof racks or larger tires), and frequent off-road driving will all lower fuel economy. However, drivers who focus on fuel-efficient driving and stick to mostly highway miles might see numbers close to, or even above, the EPA estimate.

Consult online forums and owner reviews to get a better understanding of what other Bronco owners are experiencing in terms of fuel economy.

How it compares

The Bronco’s fuel economy is competitive, but not impressive, within its class. The Jeep Wrangler, a direct rival, gets similar numbers. For example, a 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4WD with the 2.0L turbo engine is EPA-rated at 22 MPG combined. A Toyota 4Runner, another off-road SUV but with a truck-like experience, comes in significantly lower at around 17 MPG combined. Comparing the Bronco to more road-focused SUVs shows the trade-offs made for off-road capability. A Honda Passport, for instance, manages around 22 MPG combined.

These comparisons are useful for Bronco buyers willing to consider alternatives, but for those specifically wanting the Bronco’s style and off-road ability, this simply acknowledges the price paid at the pump. For a broader comparison, consult BRONCO MPG across all years to see how it compares.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize unnecessary idling. The Bronco’s EcoBoost engine, while efficient for its size, still consumes fuel when idling. If you expect to be stationary for more than a minute, it’s best to turn off the engine, especially during city driving. This habit can save you fuel over time. Also, consult all Ford fuel economy data to compare different engines.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly (at least once a month) and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts. Using a light foot on the accelerator will make a big difference.

Remove excess weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and passenger compartment to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. This is especially important if you often carry heavy items that are not essential for your daily driving.

Consider drive modes. The Bronco offers G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes for different driving, and using the right mode for on-road driving can make it more fuel efficient. Select the ‘Normal’ or ‘Eco’ modes when you are mainly driving on paved roads, as these modes adjust the engine and transmission to save fuel.