The Ford Bronco VI Four-door 2.3 EcoBoost 4×4 Automatic, introduced for the 2021 model year, represents a significant return to form for the iconic Bronco nameplate. This variant occupies a central position within the sixth-generation Bronco lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and price. Built on the 6G22 platform, the Bronco VI aimed to recapture the spirit of the original Bronco while incorporating modern technology and features. The 2.3 EcoBoost engine and ten-speed automatic transmission combination proved to be a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile off-road vehicle suitable for both daily driving and weekend adventures.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Bronco |
| Generation | Bronco VI Four-door |
| Type (Engine) | 2.3 EcoBoost (270 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| 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 | 9.9 l (10.46 US qt, 8.71 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. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic 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 |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Bronco VI Four-door 2.3 EcoBoost 4×4 Automatic is a body-on-frame SUV designed to compete with the Jeep Wrangler. Production began in 2020 for the 2021 model year at the Michigan Assembly Plant. This variant is positioned as a mid-range offering, providing a substantial step up in performance and features compared to the base 2.3L engine with a manual transmission, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance 2.7L EcoBoost or the Raptor trims. The four-door configuration adds practicality and passenger space, making it a more viable daily driver for many buyers. The Bronco’s return was met with considerable enthusiasm, and the 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic quickly became a popular choice due to its blend of capability and usability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Bronco variant lies the 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The 2.3L engine is designated with engine code M2G1. Paired with this engine is a sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80), providing a wide gear ratio spread for both on-road cruising and low-speed off-road crawling. This transmission allows for precise gear selection and contributes to the Bronco’s overall efficiency and responsiveness. The automatic transmission features selectable drive modes, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Baja, tailoring the vehicle’s performance to various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic Bronco offers a compelling driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the 2.7L EcoBoost, the 2.3L provides ample power for most driving situations, including highway merging and passing. The ten-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and quick shifts. The wide gear ratios allow for a low first gear for rock crawling and a high tenth gear for efficient highway cruising. Compared to the manual transmission version of the 2.3L, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic and challenging off-road terrain. However, some enthusiasts prefer the greater control offered by a manual gearbox. The Bronco’s independent front suspension and solid rear axle provide a comfortable ride on paved roads while maintaining excellent off-road articulation.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic Bronco was available in several trim levels, including Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Outer Banks. The Base model offered standard features such as a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED headlights, and a removable roof. Higher trims added features like upgraded upholstery, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Optional extras included a hardtop roof, upgraded off-road packages with features like a front sway bar disconnect and locking differentials, and various interior customization options. Interior upholstery ranged from cloth on the base models to leather on the higher trims.
Chassis & Braking
The Bronco VI utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for off-road adventures. 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. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. The rear stabilizer bar thickness varies depending on the trim level, with higher trims often featuring a thicker bar for improved on-road handling. Ground clearance ranges from 8.3 to 11.5 inches, depending on the tire size and suspension configuration.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Bronco VI, and specifically the 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic variant, received overwhelmingly positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its retro-inspired styling, impressive off-road capability, and comfortable on-road manners. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler, the Bronco offered a more refined interior and a more modern infotainment system. Fuel economy was generally considered acceptable for a vehicle of its size and capability, averaging around 21 mpg in combined driving. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting minor issues with the infotainment system and some engine components. However, these issues have generally been addressed through software updates and warranty repairs.
Legacy
The Ford Bronco VI 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic has quickly established itself as a desirable vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of capability, comfort, and style has made it a popular choice among off-road enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. The 2.3 EcoBoost engine has proven to be relatively reliable, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term durability. The ten-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. As the Bronco continues to evolve, the 2.3 EcoBoost Automatic variant will likely remain a popular and sought-after configuration, representing a sweet spot in the Bronco lineup.
