The Ford Bronco family represents the culmination of Ford off-road engineering expertise, offering a diverse range of vehicles designed to tackle everything from daily commutes to the most challenging terrain. This model year continues to refine the formula that has made the Bronco nameplate legendary, with thoughtful upgrades to powertrains, maintenance systems, and electronics across the board. The lineup spans two distinct branches—the rugged, adventure-ready full-size Bronco and the more compact, daily-driver-friendly Bronco Sport, each with multiple trim levels calibrated for different customer needs.
Powertrain Options: Engineered for Capability
The Ford Bronco family offers several sophisticated powertrain options, each calibrated to deliver an optimal balance of power, efficiency, and durability.
The standard engine in most full-size Bronco models is the turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder. This refined powerplant produces 300 horsepower at 5,700 rpm and 441 Nm of torque at 3,400 rpm. The engine features aluminum block and head construction with direct fuel injection for optimal combustion efficiency. Technical improvements include a revised turbocharger housing that reduces lag and a new intake manifold design that improves airflow at higher engine speeds.
For those requiring additional capability, the twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 delivers 330 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and an impressive 563 Nm of torque at just 3,100 rpm. This engine features an iron-and-aluminum block construction with aluminum heads, providing an optimal balance of strength and weight. The latest model features enhanced cooling capabilities, including a 15% larger radiator and improved airflow management, to maintain optimal performance during extended off-road sessions.
The Bronco Sport offers two engine options: a 1.5-litre three-cylinder EcoBoost generating 181 horsepower and 257 Nm of torque, and a more powerful 2.0-litre four-cylinder EcoBoost delivering 250 horsepower and 376 Nm of torque. Both engines feature auto start-stop technology to improve fuel efficiency during city driving.
Transmission options include a class-exclusive 7-speed manual with crawler gear for extreme off-road scenarios or a sophisticated 10-speed automatic with selectable drive modes. All Bronco models feature standard four-wheel drive systems, with advanced options including automatic on-demand engagement and locking front and rear differentials on higher trim levels.
Maintenance Systems: Designed for Durability
The Ford Bronco family incorporates numerous engineering advances designed to enhance durability and reduce maintenance requirements—critical considerations for vehicles designed to operate in challenging environments.
All engines utilize a smart oil monitoring system that analyzes driving conditions and usage patterns to determine optimal oil change intervals, typically ranging from 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres under normal conditions. The system accounts for factors such as temperature extremes, short trips, and off-road usage to adjust maintenance requirements accordingly.
The cooling systems have high-capacity radiators and auxiliary transmission coolers standard on V6 models. Coolant formulations provide protection in temperatures ranging from -40°C to +132°C, with a service interval of 5 years or 100,000 kilometres under normal usage.
Engineers specifically designed air filtration systems for off-road durability, using cyclonic pre-filters to remove larger particulates before they reach the main filter. This design extends air filter life by up to 50% compared to conventional systems in dusty conditions. Technicians recommend inspecting the filter every 8,000 kilometres and typically replacing it between 16,000 and 24,000 kilometres, depending on the environment.
Brake systems feature larger rotors and callipers on higher trim levels, with special attention paid to heat dissipation during technical off-road manoeuvres. The electronic stability control system features specific calibrations for off-road scenarios, minimizing unnecessary intervention during controlled slides while preserving critical safety functions.
Electrical and Battery Systems: Advanced Technology
The electrical architecture of the Ford Bronco family represents a significant advancement over previous generations, with a focus on robust performance in challenging conditions and support for advanced features.
All models feature high-capacity 80-amp-hour AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries designed to withstand the vibration and shock loads associated with off-road driving. The battery management system features intelligent charging algorithms that adjust the output based on temperature and load conditions, thereby extending battery life and ensuring reliable starting even after extended periods of inactivity.
The alternator systems support increased electrical demands, with 180-amp units standard across the lineup and 220-amp heavy-duty alternators available on higher trim levels. This additional capacity supports the extensive array of electronic systems, including advanced trail management features, climate control, and entertainment systems.
All Bronco models feature a sophisticated power distribution system with circuit protection specifically designed for off-road conditions. Sealed connectors and ruggedized wiring harnesses reduce the potential for water ingress and physical damage during challenging off-road scenarios.
5 Things Most People Don’t Know About the 2025 Bronco Family
• The Bronco electrical system incorporates a specialized battery protection circuit that can detect when battery voltage drops below 12.3 volts and will automatically disable non-essential systems to preserve starting capability
• The engine control modules in the Bronco family are specifically calibrated to operate at extreme angles, allowing the engine to maintain proper oil pressure and fuel delivery even when the vehicle is at a 30-degree tilt
• The 2.7-litre V6 engine features specially designed turbochargers with water-cooled bearings that can withstand continuous operation at temperatures exceeding 950°C
• All Bronco models include a sophisticated air intake system with hydrophobic membranes that can allow the engine to operate in water depths up to 85 centimetres without ingesting fluid
• The battery mounting system can withstand impacts of up to 25G while maintaining electrical connection, ensuring power availability even during extreme off-road manoeuvres
Common Questions About the 2025 Bronco Family
What is the recommended oil change interval for the Ford Bronco?
The intelligent oil monitoring system typically recommends changes between 8,000 and 12,000 kilometres, depending on driving conditions. Off-road use, extreme temperatures, or frequent short trips may reduce this interval to as little as 5,000 kilometres.
How often should the transfer case fluid be changed in the Bronco?
Under normal driving conditions, you should change the transfer case fluid every 60,000 kilometres. However, if the vehicle is frequently used for off-road driving or water crossings, a 30,000-kilometre interval is recommended.
What is the expected battery life in the Ford Bronco?
The AGM batteries typically last 4-5 years under normal conditions. The battery management system helps extend this lifespan by optimizing charging parameters based on temperature and usage patterns.
Does the Ford Bronco require premium fuel?
The 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine operates on regular 87-octane fuel, though performance and efficiency may improve slightly with premium fuel. The 2.7-litre V6 engine requires 91-octane or higher fuel for optimal performance, particularly in high-temperature environments.
What maintenance is required after deep water crossings?
After crossing deep water, inspect the differential and transfer case breather tubes, check all fluid levels for contamination, examine the air filters, and verify that all electrical connections stay secure and dry.
How frequently should spark plugs be replaced in the EcoBoost engines?
The recommended interval for spark plug replacement is 96,000 kilometres for the 2.3-litre engine and 80,000 kilometres for the 2.7-litre V6, though operating conditions may necessitate earlier replacement.
What type of transmission fluid does the 10-speed automatic require?
The 10-speed automatic transmission uses MERCON® ULV (Ultra Low Viscosity) fluid, which should be changed every 96,000 kilometres under normal conditions or every 48,000 kilometres under severe operating conditions.
Is there a break-in period recommended for new Bronco engines?
Yes, there is a 1,600-kilometre break-in period during which drivers should avoid extreme acceleration, maintain varying speeds, and avoid towing. This allows proper seating of piston rings and other moving components.
How often should the air filter be replaced in off-road conditions?
In dusty off-road conditions, visual inspection of the air filter is recommended every 3,000-5,000 kilometres, with replacement typically necessary every 8,000-16,000 kilometres, depending on the severity of conditions.
What maintenance is required for the G.O.A.T. terrain management system?
The system requires no regular maintenance, but technicians should clean the sensors it relies on—such as wheel speed sensors and accelerometers—and inspect them for damage during regular service intervals.
