The Ford Bronco VI Four-door 2.3 EcoBoost 4×4, launched in 2020, represents Ford’s re-entry into a segment it largely defined decades prior. This iteration of the Bronco, built on a body-on-frame chassis, aims to deliver a blend of retro styling, modern technology, and serious off-road capability. The 2.3 EcoBoost variant, producing 270 horsepower, occupies a central position in the Bronco VI lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, appealing to a broad range of buyers seeking adventure without sacrificing everyday usability. It’s positioned above the base 2.3L engine and below the more potent 2.7L EcoBoost and the high-performance Raptor models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Bronco |
| Generation | Bronco VI Four-door |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 EcoBoost (270 Hp) 4×4 |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle, Cabriolet, SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 270 Hp |
| Torque | 420 Nm (309.78 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt, 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt, 8.36 UK qt) |
| Max. roof load | 204 kg (449.74 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4811-4839 mm (189.41 – 190.51 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1928-2014 mm (75.91 – 79.29 in.) |
| Height | 1852-1963 mm (72.91 – 77.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2949 mm (116.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1651-1699 mm (65 – 66.89 in.) |
| Rear track | 1651-1699 mm (65 – 66.89 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 211-292 mm (8.31 – 11.5 in.) |
| Approach angle | 35.5-43.2° |
| Departure angle | 29.7-37.0° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.0-26.3° |
| Wading depth | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Dependent spring suspension with transverse stabilizer |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R16; 255/75 R17; 265/70 R17; 285/70 R17; 315/70 R17; 255/70 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17; 8J x 17; 8.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Bronco VI 2.3 EcoBoost is Ford’s 2.3-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of the EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger with an integrated intercooler. The engine code is generally identified as 2.3L EcoBoost. The Ti-VCT (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing) system optimizes valve timing for improved performance and efficiency across the rev range. The 2.3L engine produces 270 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm. The standard transmission for this variant is a 7-speed manual transmission, offering precise control for both on-road driving and off-road crawling. A 10-speed automatic transmission is also available as an option, providing smoother shifts and enhanced convenience, particularly in challenging terrain.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3 EcoBoost engine, paired with the 7-speed manual transmission, delivers a responsive and engaging driving experience. While not as brutally powerful as the 2.7L EcoBoost, it provides ample torque for navigating trails and maintaining highway speeds. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, crucial for controlling wheel speed during off-road maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while offering convenience, can sometimes feel less connected to the driving experience, with occasional hunting for the right gear. The Bronco’s suspension, tuned for off-road performance, provides a comfortable ride on paved roads, though it’s not as refined as some more road-focused SUVs. The 4×4 system, with its selectable drive modes, allows drivers to tailor the vehicle’s performance to various conditions, from snow and mud to sand and rock.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.3 EcoBoost Bronco is available in several trim levels, including Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Outer Banks. The Base model offers essential features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, LED headlights, and cloth upholstery. The Big Bend adds features like upgraded suspension, marine-grade vinyl seat upholstery, and 17-inch wheels. The Black Diamond trim is geared towards serious off-roaders, with features like rock rails, a heavy-duty front bumper, and a disconnecting front sway bar. The Outer Banks trim offers a more luxurious experience, with leather upholstery, upgraded audio system, and additional convenience features. Optional extras include a hardtop roof, a premium sound system, and various off-road packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Bronco VI utilizes a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame, providing a solid foundation for both on-road and off-road performance. The front suspension features an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a solid axle with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. This setup provides excellent articulation for navigating rough terrain. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety in emergency braking situations. Depending on the trim level, the Bronco may also feature trail control and trail turn assist, further enhancing its off-road capabilities.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Bronco VI has been widely praised by automotive critics for its retro styling, off-road capability, and overall driving experience. The 2.3 EcoBoost engine has been generally well-received, offering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost, the 2.3L engine provides slightly lower performance but offers better fuel economy. The 2.3L automatic models generally achieve around 20-21 mpg combined, while the manual transmission variants can achieve slightly higher figures. Reliability has been generally good, though some early production models experienced minor issues with the infotainment system and certain electronic components. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco offers a more comfortable ride and a more refined interior, while the Wrangler is often considered to be more capable in extreme off-road situations.
Legacy
The Ford Bronco VI 2.3 EcoBoost 4×4 has quickly established itself as a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The 2.3L EcoBoost engine, while not the most powerful option, has proven to be a reliable and capable powerplant. As the Bronco VI matures, its long-term reliability will become more apparent. However, early indications suggest that the 2.3L EcoBoost engine is a durable and dependable unit. On the used car market, the Bronco VI 2.3 EcoBoost 4×4 is expected to hold its value well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage and desirable options. Its combination of retro styling, modern technology, and off-road capability ensures its continued appeal for years to come.
