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The Ford Bronco remains a popular choice among Indiana used car buyers seeking a versatile SUV with impressive fuel efficiency. The Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport are two distinct SUVs that cater to different types of drivers. Together with the experts from the Indy Auto Man dealership, let’s explore the available engines, see how MPG stacks up against rivals, and identify the most beneficial deals in the local market of Indiana.
The Ford Bronco is built for serious off-road adventures and offers classic rugged style with modern tech. It comes in two- and four-door versions, with options for a fixed or removable roof, allowing plenty of customization. The modern Ford Bronco scores a 3/5 J.D. Power rating. Ongoing improvements in build quality and solid warranty support (3-year/36,000-mile) reinforce confidence.
Under the hood, you’ll find:
The Bronco offers both a 7-speed manual transmission and a 10-speed automatic, paired with standard 4x4 drive.
Popular trims include Big Bend (well-equipped entry), Badlands (for peak off-road use), Outer Banks (luxury/comfort), and Sasquatch (ultimate off-roader). Each trim caters to a different buyer preference, and used market demand is very high for these models.
The Bronco excels off-road with advanced 4WD, turbocharged engines (starting at 300 hp), removable doors/roof, and high-tech terrain management. It also provides solid comfort for daily use, though wind and road noise (especially with the soft top) are common complaints.

The Bronco Sport is a smaller compact SUV compared to the full-size Bronco. This Ford SUV focuses on blending everyday efficiency with some off-road ability. In Indiana's used car market, the Bronco Sport offers two primary engine choices:
This proven powerhouse produces about 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. It’s designed for efficiency, offering roughly 25 MPG (miles per gallon) in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, making it an economical option for daily commuting and weekend getaways.
For those craving more power, the Bronco Sport suits best with 2.0L turbo engine which delivers up to 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. While it maintains solid fuel economy - about 23 MPG combined - such Ford Bronco edition is better suited for off-road adventures and towing needs.
Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and hauling heavy loads can reduce fuel efficiency. Practicing smooth driving and providing regular maintenance for your Bronco helps ensure you get the most out of every tank.
Read also: Best MPG SUV
Let’s see how the Bronco stacks up against some of its key rivals in terms of mpg:
While the Honda Passport and Jeep Cherokee offer comparable or slightly better highway mpg, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid leads in overall efficiency, reaching up to 34 MPG highway. However, the Bronco Sport’s turbocharged engines provide great power and efficiency, especially suited for drivers who need a rugged SUV with good fuel economy.
Larger SUVs like the Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango typically deliver lower mpg, around 20–22 in the city, due to their size, heavy weight, and engine capacity.
If your goal is to get the best miles per gallon while keeping costs reasonable, then the Ford Bronco Sport with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine is your best bet. Such a Ford truck offers about 27 MPG combined. Its performance, reliability, and suitability for Indiana’s varied terrain make it a smart choice for daily drivers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The hybrid Toyota RAV4 offers superior highway mpg, but for Indiana buyers sticking to used models, the standard Bronco Sport with the 1.5L engine remains an excellent and fuel-efficient choice.

For Indiana drivers, the Bronco Sport is the ideal choice if you want an efficient, nimble SUV that’s still ready for trails. But if you chase serious off-road thrills and need more towing muscle, the full-size Bronco delivers that extra capability - just expect a hit to your wallet at the pump.
Both models bring Ford’s rugged DNA to the road, so choosing between them comes down to your lifestyle and how you plan to drive them.
The Ford Bronco’s engine options allow for flexible, efficient driving in Indiana. For those hunting for the most efficient, reliable, and capable used SUV, a Bronco Sport with the 1.5L engine is a smart and beneficial purchase.
Whether you are searching for the turbocharged powertrain or the more economical truck version, visit the Indy Auto Man dealership in Indianapolis to test drive the Bronco and compare it with other available options side by side!