18 MPG combined is the hard truth for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sasquatch with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. It’s a number that might make a Prius driver weep, but for enthusiasts who clamored for the return of the iconic Bronco, it’s a price many are willing to pay for unparalleled off-road capability and retro-cool style. Let’s be honest: nobody buys a Sasquatch Bronco for fuel efficiency; they buy it to conquer trails, ford streams, and look good doing it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Bronco Sasquatch achieves 18 MPG in both city and highway driving. This unusual parity reveals the vehicle’s aerodynamic realities and drivetrain configuration. Those massive 35-inch tires and the Bronco’s brick-like profile create significant drag, regardless of whether it’s navigating stop-and-go traffic or cruising down the interstate. and the aggressive gearing needed for rock crawling also keeps the engine working harder, especially at higher speeds. Expect to see these numbers fluctuate quite a bit in the real world, depending on your driving style and terrain. If you spend a lot of time on the highway, expect numbers closer to 16 or 17 MPG, and more enthusiastic pedal work will send it plummeting even further.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ford Bronco Sasquatch 4WD 2.3L 4-cyl at $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual costs will vary depending on how much you drive and the price of gasoline in your area. Factoring this expense into your overall budget is important if you’re considering purchasing this model. While the initial thrill of owning a Bronco Sasquatch might be exciting, the constant trips to the gas station can eventually start adding up for some owners.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, don’t be surprised if your real-world fuel economy falls short of 18 MPG. Factors like driving habits, tire pressure, aftermarket accessories, and even the type of terrain you frequently encounter can significantly impact fuel consumption. Many Sasquatch owners average closer to 15-17 MPG in mixed driving. Off-roading, with its slow speeds and high engine load, will naturally result in even lower numbers. You’re paying for the privilege of tackling challenging trails that would leave lesser vehicles stranded.

How it compares

Compared to other off-road-focused vehicles, the Bronco Sasquatch’s fuel economy is not great. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with the 2.0L turbo engine manages around 20 MPG combined. BRONCO MPG across all years tend to show the Bronco models with less off road oriented trim levels will achieve slightly higher MPG numbers. Even a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, known for its ruggedness but not its efficiency, achieves around 17 MPG combined. The key difference lies in the specific mission. A Wrangler Rubicon prioritizes a slightly lighter curb weight and smaller tires in some configurations, while the 4Runner, though capable, isn’t quite as aggressively engineered for extreme off-roading as the Sasquatch. The comparison is important because it highlights a key tradeoff: those who want the absolute best off-road performance often have to sacrifice fuel economy in the process. For those concerned about the environment or their wallet, exploring all Ford fuel economy data could prove fruitful, potentially leading them to models that strike a better balance between capability and efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing every last mile out of a gallon may not be the top priority for Sasquatch owners, there are still steps you can take to improve fuel economy. Maintaining proper tire inflation is critical, especially with those large, off-road tires. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it meets the manufacturer’s recommendations. This reduces rolling resistance, which directly translates to improved fuel efficiency.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine delivers plenty of power, but unnecessary bursts of speed will quickly deplete your fuel tank. Practice smooth, consistent driving to maximize efficiency. Try to anticipate traffic conditions and use the vehicle’s momentum to your advantage.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall load, requiring the engine to work harder. Empty the Bronco of any gear or equipment you don’t need on a daily basis. Every little bit helps, plus it will reduce wear and tear on your vehicle over time.

When not actively off-roading, consider switching back to the factory tires, if you have them. The aggressive tread pattern of the Sasquatch tires significantly increases rolling resistance on paved roads. Using stock street tires when possible will definitely improve fuel economy, though it might diminish the truck’s aggressive look and off-road prowess.