Let's Talk About 2021 Bronco Fuel Economy

By now, we know nearly all the relevant information pertaining to the 2021 Bronco. We've been introduced to its technology, trim levels, prices, mechanical specifics, options, and even some aftermarket pieces. We know that the official Job 1 was on May 3rd and that production will pause later in May due to a global shortage of computer chips which has significantly affected the automotive industry. We know how much power both the four-cylinder and V6 engines will make, using regular and premium fuel.

However, until yesterday we didn’t know what the Bronco's exact fuel economy figures are.

And right off the bat, you'll notice that the 2021 Bronco, regardless of engine and transmission choice, will not be as frugal as you might imagine. But, if you know anything about proper off-road vehicles, you know that they rarely are, so the official Bronco fuel economy ratings are not surprising.

So, from this table, we see that the most fuel-efficient Bronco will be able to achieve 22 mpg (combined), and the thirstiest  will be able to get just 17 mpg. Not surprisingly, the best fuel economy was achieved with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and the worst by a 2.7-liter V8 with the Sasquatch package and all available extras.

For our readers overseas, the 22 mpg equates to 11 liters of gas per 100 kilometers, and 17 mph translates to about 14 liters per 100 kilometers.

In Europe, where drivers are accustomed to diesel-powered SUVs, these are pretty substantial numbers. However, the new Bronco is on a par with competitors, and its fuel consumption is very similar to that of the Jeep Wrangler. Of course, we're talking about the standard 2.0 and 3.8-liter Wranglers. The 392 Hemi Wrangler’s fuel consumption is astronomical.

Even though some Bronco fans might be surprised by these figures, we can say they were expected. First of all, we're looking at a pretty high profile and bulky, 4000-pound SUV with all-wheel-drive. Second, it rides on big and wide 33 to 35-inch all-terrain rubber. Third, despite all the efforts of Ford’s engineers, an SUV's aerodynamics will never be comparable to those of a sports car. So, it's clear that Bronco will be thirsty.

As far as we're concerned, thirst isn’t a problem when the vehicle delivers what is expected of it. And, thankfully, the new Bronco does. In fact, so far, it has been an overachiever.