17 MPG combined is the reality for those considering the 2023 Ford Bronco Badlands 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6. It’s not an economy car but a purpose-built off-roader, a purpose that requires trade-offs. Badlands buyers usually prioritize capability, ruggedness, and an adventurous image, so they accept the cost at the pump.

City and highway performance

The Bronco Badlands delivers a consistent 17 MPG whether you’re in the city or on the highway. The off-road tires, boxy shape, and heavy weight mean it’s constantly working hard. City driving involves constant stop-and-go which prevents better mileage. On the open road, the same factors counteract any potential gains from steady cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Bronco Badlands 4WD 2.7L at $2,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. Your actual expenses will vary with your driving, local fuel prices, and how often you use four-wheel drive.

Real-world expectations

Expect numbers close to the EPA estimates. Some owners report slightly better numbers on long highway trips, maybe 19 or 20 MPG, but only in ideal conditions, like level ground, minimal wind, and gentle throttle. Frequent off-roading, towing, or aggressive driving will drop fuel economy below 17 MPG.

Tire size and modifications also have an impact. Larger tires reduce fuel economy. Lift kits and other aerodynamic changes can also hurt fuel economy.

How it compares

The Bronco Badlands isn’t winning any efficiency contests. A Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with the 3.6L V6 gets around 19 MPG combined. Even a Toyota 4Runner, known for its reliable design, gets around 17 MPG combined in its 4WD configuration. For those concerned about fuel economy in an off-road vehicle, a more modern Land Rover Defender 110 with the P300 engine gets an estimated 19 MPG combined, but it costs much more. These comparisons highlight how buyers choose the Bronco Badlands for its styling, off-road hardware, and the lifestyle it offers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Bronco Badlands isn’t fuel-efficient, but some driving habits can help extend range. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 2.7L EcoBoost engine has plenty of torque, so there’s no need to floor it. Smooth inputs save fuel.

Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check pressures regularly, before long trips.

Try using the Bronco’s selectable drive modes. The “Eco” mode, if equipped, adjusts the engine and transmission to prioritize fuel efficiency. This mode may reduce performance.

Use accessories that consume power, like air conditioning, sparingly. If A/C is necessary, use the recirculate function to improve efficiency. You can explore BRONCO MPG across all years for a deeper view of the models.

Regular maintenance is critical. A well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the service intervals for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plugs in the owner’s manual. For all Ford fuel economy data, check our Ford model pages.