23 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport 4WD with the more powerful 2.0L 4-cylinder engine. It’s not a Prius. The Bronco Sport 2.0L prioritizes capability and unique style, attracting buyers who value adventurous weekend getaways and confident all-weather performance over fuel efficiency. They are buying an image, a lifestyle, and a competent small SUV, one that uses more gas than some of its pavement-focused competitors.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Bronco Sport 2.0L at 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figures reflect the higher fuel consumption of stop-and-go traffic, made worse by the Bronco Sport’s standard 4WD system. Highway mileage, while better, reflects the taller design and less aerodynamic shape of this small SUV compared to more streamlined crossovers. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel economy, but it is working against the physics of a vehicle designed for more than just smooth, flat roads. The intelligent 4WD system is always on, sending power to all 4 wheels, which increases safety and improves acceleration when needed, but also impacts fuel economy slightly. If fuel efficiency is your primary concern, consider the lower-powered 1.5L Bronco Sport.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport 4WD 2.0L at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s fuel consumption estimates, and assuming national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for comparison, but your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving you do. Drivers who mostly drive in the city or frequently use the 4WD system off-road will likely exceed this estimate. Also remember to factor in premium gas costs, the 2.0 litre EcoBoost engine has been designed to run on 87 octane but will make more power using 91 or higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world MPG often differs. Bronco Sport 2.0L owners often report numbers a bit below the EPA’s combined rating, especially those who live in hilly areas or regularly use the car for shorter trips. In mixed driving, expect something in the 20-24 MPG range. Aggressive acceleration and frequent off-road trips can easily reduce the average further. However, drivers who mostly drive on the highway and practice efficient driving techniques could see numbers closer to the EPA’s 26 MPG highway estimate. The type of tire also impacts fuel efficiency. Many of the off-road oriented trims ship with all-terrain tires, which will increase grip but often negatively impact MPGs relative to a highway tire.

How it compares

The Bronco Sport isn’t a class leader in fuel economy. For example, the Subaru Crosstrek, a capable AWD competitor, achieves a combined 29 MPG in its naturally aspirated form. A Jeep Compass 4×4, another small off-road-oriented SUV, manages around 24 MPG combined. Even within Ford’s lineup, exploring all Ford fuel economy data, the Ford Escape, which shares its chassis with the Bronco Sport, gets better fuel efficiency, up to 34 MPG combined in its hybrid configuration. But those vehicles lack the Bronco Sport’s distinct styling and off-road capability. The BRONCO MPG across all years tells a similar story: this is a vehicle that values rugged design and adventurous capability over low gas consumption. Someone choosing a Bronco Sport with the 2.0L knows they are buying a slightly compromised MPG in exchange for the power and capability to tackle more challenging terrain.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Reduce weight. The Bronco Sport already carries extra weight from the standard 4WD system and its strong construction. Avoid unnecessary cargo, extra weight reduces fuel economy. Remove roof racks or carriers when not in use, as they create aerodynamic drag, particularly at highway speeds.

Check tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. The correct tire pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Keeping your tires properly inflated ensures optimal fuel efficiency and extends tire life.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed allows the engine to operate more efficiently. Look ahead and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts. Avoid driving in “Sport” mode unless necessary, as it alters the transmission mapping to prioritize performance over fuel economy.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fluctuations in fuel consumption. Set the cruise control to a reasonable speed and avoid excessive speeding, which dramatically reduces MPG. Wind resistance increases exponentially with speed, so slowing down just a few miles per hour can make a difference.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. A clean engine simply burns fuel more effectively.