What Do We Know About the 2025 Ford Bronco Powertrain Options?

The Ford Bronco continues to make waves in the off-road SUV segment with its rugged design and impressive capabilities. However, for environmentally conscious adventure seekers, one question remains prominent: Is the Ford Bronco available with a hybrid powertrain? The short answer is no—it does not currently offer a hybrid option in its lineup, despite the growing trend of electrification across the automotive industry.

Current Engine Options

Instead of hybrid technology, the Ford Bronco comes equipped with two traditional internal combustion engine options. The standard powertrain is a turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 300 horsepower. For those seeking more power, Ford offers an optional twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine that produces 330 horsepower.

Both engines come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, although the 2.3-litre four-cylinder can also come with a seven-speed manual transmission for enthusiasts who prefer to shift gears themselves. These powertrains deliver the robust performance expected from the Bronco nameplate, particularly when tackling challenging off-road terrain.

Off-Road Capability Without Electrification

The Bronco emphasizes its off-road credentials with standard four-wheel drive across all trim levels. The vehicle offers impressive ground clearance, available 35-inch mud-terrain tires, electronic locking front and rear differentials, and a disconnecting stabilizer bar for enhanced articulation on rocky terrain. The G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) modes allow drivers to select from different driving profiles optimized for various conditions, from slippery surfaces to rock crawling.

This focus on traditional off-road capability may partly explain why Ford has not yet incorporated hybrid technology into the lineup. The additional weight and complexity of hybrid components could potentially compromise some of the vehicle’s off-road abilities or require substantial reengineering.

Fuel Efficiency Considerations

Without a hybrid option, the fuel efficiency remains comparable to other conventional off-road SUVs in its class, but falls short of hybrid alternatives. The exact fuel consumption figures vary depending on the engine choice, transmission, and specific trim level, with the 2.3-litre four-cylinder offering slightly better efficiency than the more powerful V6 option.

Drivers seeking the rugged appeal with improved fuel economy might need to wait for future model years or consider other vehicles in the Ford lineup that offer electrified powertrains.

Competition with Hybrid Off-Roaders

While the Bronco lacks a hybrid option, some of its competitors have embraced electrification. The Toyota Land Cruiser, for instance, features a hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, producing 326 horsepower. This setup offers improved fuel efficiency while maintaining off-road capability.

The absence of a hybrid represents a potential gap in the Ford lineup, especially as consumer interest in more efficient vehicles continues to grow. However, it’s worth noting that Ford has been expanding its electrified offerings across other models, suggesting that a hybrid Bronco could potentially join the lineup in future model years.

The Bronco Family: Electrification Journey

Although the full-size Bronco doesn’t offer a hybrid powertrain, it’s worth noting that Ford has been incorporating electrification across its broader vehicle lineup. The company has made significant investments in electric and hybrid technology, as evidenced by vehicles like the all-electric F-150 Lightning and the Maverick Hybrid pickup.

5 Bronco Hybrid Facts 

1. While the Bronco doesn’t offer a hybrid option, Ford filed several patents related to electrified off-road technology that could potentially be applied to future models.

2. The main Bronco competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, already offers a 4xe plug-in hybrid variant, demonstrating that electrification and off-road capability can successfully coexist.

3. The Ford modular C2 platform, which underpins the smaller Bronco Sport, was designed with electrification in mind, potentially easing the way for future hybrid variants.

4. Internal Ford documents leaked to automotive media have hinted at potential hybrid powertrains being tested, though none have been confirmed for production.

5. The absence of a hybrid option hasn’t dampened the popularity of the Bronco, with demand consistently exceeding supply since its reintroduction to the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Ford Bronco come in a hybrid version?

No, this SUV does not offer a hybrid powertrain option. It comes with either a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine or a 330-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6.

What engine options are available for the Ford Bronco?

It offers two engine options: a standard 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.3-litre four-cylinder and an optional 330-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6.

What transmission options does the Bronco have?

This SUV comes standard with a 10-speed automatic transmission. A seven-speed manual transmission is available with the 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine.

How does the Bronco compare to hybrid off-road competitors?

Unlike some competitors, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser, which offers hybrid powertrains, it relies on traditional internal combustion engines. This means it typically has lower fuel efficiency but maintains its purpose-built off-road capabilities.

Is Ford planning to release a hybrid Bronco in the future?

While Ford has not made official announcements regarding a hybrid version, the company’s broader electrification strategy suggests it could be a possibility for future model years.

What are the trim levels available for the Ford Bronco?

The lineup includes several trim levels, including Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, and Raptor, each offering different features and capabilities.

Does the Bronco have any fuel-saving technologies?

While not a hybrid, it incorporates some fuel-saving technologies such as auto start-stop and an efficient 10-speed automatic transmission to help improve fuel economy.

What is the Bronco fuel economy?

Fuel economy varies by engine and configuration, with the 2.3-litre four-cylinder generally offering better efficiency than the V6 option.

Can I remove the doors and roof on the Ford Bronco?

Yes, this SUV is designed with removable doors and roof panels to provide an open-air driving experience, a feature that appeals to many off-road enthusiasts.

What is the G.O.A.T. system in the Bronco?

G.O.A.T. stands for “Goes Over Any Type of Terrain” and refers to the selectable drive modes that optimize vehicle settings for different off-road conditions, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, Sand, Baja, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl.