What makes the Bronco engine lineup special for 2025?
The Ford Bronco continues its legacy as an off-road icon, offering a diverse range of engine options tailored to meet different adventure needs. From the entry-level Base to the high-performance Raptor, each trim features carefully selected powertrains that strike a balance between capability, efficiency, and performance. This year’s lineup showcases the Ford commitment to providing the right power for every type of terrain, with engines specifically tuned to complement the rugged Bronco capabilities.
Base Powertrain: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4
The foundation of the Bronco lineup begins with the proven 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. Available on the Base, Big Bend, and Heritage Edition trims, this turbocharged powerplant delivers:
- Power output: 223 kW (300 horsepower)
- Torque: 441 Nm (325 lb-ft)
- Transmission options: 7-speed manual with crawler gear or 10-speed automatic
- Fuel efficiency: Approximately 11.2 L/100 km combined
This engine strikes an excellent balance of efficiency and capability, providing sufficient power for weekend adventures while remaining practical for daily driving. The 7-speed manual transmission features a class-exclusive crawler gear with a 94.75:1 crawl ratio, available when paired with the optional Sasquatch Package, making it ideal for navigating technical off-road situations.
Mid-Range Option: 2.7L EcoBoost V6
Stepping up to the Outer Banks, Badlands, and Heritage Edition trims gives buyers access to the more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine:
- Power output: 246 kW (330 horsepower)
- Torque: 563 Nm (415 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic only
- Fuel efficiency: Approximately 12.4 L/100 km combined
This twin-turbocharged V6 delivers significantly more torque than the base engine, providing enhanced capability for climbing steep grades and navigating challenging trails. The additional 41 Nm of torque makes a noticeable difference when towing or carrying heavy loads, with the Bronco capable of towing up to 1,588 kg when properly equipped.
Specialized Performance: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in Stroppe Edition
The limited Stroppe Edition features a specially tuned version of the 2.7L EcoBoost V6:
- Power output: 246 kW (330 horsepower)
- Torque: 563 Nm (415 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with unique calibration
- Enhanced cooling system for sustained performance
While the power figures match the standard 2.7L EcoBoost, the Stroppe Edition receives upgraded cooling systems and a specially calibrated transmission for improved performance in high-stress off-road environments. This model combines heritage-inspired styling with modern engineering to create a distinctive driving experience.
Ultimate Performance: Raptor 3.0L EcoBoost V6
At the top of the range, the Bronco Raptor features the most powerful engine in the lineup:
- Power output: 312 kW (418 horsepower)
- Torque: 597 Nm (440 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic with paddle shifters
- Enhanced high-performance air induction system
- Dual-mode exhaust with selectable sound control
This high-output 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is specifically engineered for high-speed desert running and extreme off-road performance. The Raptor powertrain includes additional cooling capacity, a more aggressive throttle mapping, and reinforced drivetrain components to handle the increased power output.
Driving Modes and Engine Performance
A key feature across all Bronco models is the G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) mode selector, which optimizes engine response, transmission shift points, and traction control settings for different conditions:
- Base trim: 5 G.O.A.T. modes
- Mid-level trims: 7 G.O.A.T. modes
- Raptor: 7 G.O.A.T. modes with unique Baja setting
These selectable driving modes transform how the engines deliver power, with modes like Eco focusing on efficiency, while Baja mode in the Raptor allows for high-speed desert running with more aggressive throttle response and less intrusive stability control.
Fuel Management Technologies
All Bronco engines feature advanced fuel-saving technologies:
- Auto Start-Stop: Temporarily shuts off the engine when stopped
- Active Grille Shutters: Improve aerodynamics at highway speeds
- Advanced turbocharging: Provides power when needed, efficiency when cruising
These systems help mitigate the fuel consumption inherent to off-road-focused vehicles, providing reasonable efficiency despite the boxy shape and all-terrain capabilities.
Choose the Right Engine for Your Needs
When selecting a Bronco, the engine choice should align with your intended use:
- For casual off-roading and daily driving, the 2.3L EcoBoost provides ample power
- For more serious trail running or towing, the 2.7L EcoBoost offers significant torque advantages
- For extreme off-road performance, the Raptor 3.0L EcoBoost delivers exceptional capability
Each engine has been specifically matched to its corresponding trim level’s intended purpose, ensuring that every Bronco variant delivers an appropriate driving experience, whether conquering mountain trails or navigating city streets.
5 Ford Bronco Engine Facts
- The 7-speed manual transmission in the latest Bronco features a “crawler” gear with a ratio of 6.588:1, allowing for incredible low-speed control during technical off-roading.
- The Raptor 3.0L EcoBoost engine shares its basic architecture with the Ford Explorer ST but receives significant upgrades for off-road duty.
- All Bronco engines feature port and direct fuel injection for improved performance across the RPM range.
- The Bronco cooling systems were tested in temperatures exceeding 49°C in Johnson Valley, California, to ensure reliability in extreme conditions.
- Every Bronco engine maintains full power output at elevations up to 4,000 meters, thanks to turbocharging technology that compensates for thinner air.
10 Questions and Answers About 2025 Bronco Engines
Does the Ford Bronco offer a V8 engine option?
- No, it does not offer a V8 engine. The lineup focuses on turbocharged EcoBoost engines for better efficiency while maintaining high torque output essential for off-roading.
Which Bronco engine produces the most torque?
- The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the Raptor model produces the most torque at 597 Nm (440 lb-ft).
Can I get a manual transmission with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine?
- No, this engine is only available with the 10-speed automatic transmission. The 7-speed manual is exclusive to the 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
What is the fuel economy of the Bronco Raptor?
- This trim consumes approximately 14.7 L/100 km combined, reflecting its focus on performance rather than efficiency.
How does the Bronco Auto Start-Stop technology work?
- The system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and restarts it instantaneously when the brake pedal is released, reducing fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic.
Which Bronco trim offers the best balance of power and fuel efficiency?
- The Big Bend trim with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic transmission offers an excellent balance of performance and efficiency for most users.
How does the G.O.A.T. mode system affect engine performance?
- These modes modify the engine’s throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control settings to optimize performance for specific terrains and driving conditions.
Is the Bronco available with a hybrid powertrain?
- No, this SUV does not offer a hybrid powertrain option; however, Ford continues to evaluate potential electrification options for future model years.
What is the maximum towing capacity of the Bronco?
- When properly equipped, this SUV with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 can tow up to 1,588 kg.
How does the Raptor engine differ from the standard 2.7L EcoBoost V6?
- The Raptor 3.0L EcoBoost V6 features a larger displacement, reinforced internal components, enhanced cooling, and a more aggressive tune, resulting in an additional 66 kW (88 horsepower) and 34 Nm (25 lb-ft) of torque compared to the standard 2.7L EcoBoost.
