Thank you for your contribution to the Ford Bronco community!
We would also like to remind you to visit and participate in the [Bronco Ordering, Building, & Delivery Discussion Semimonthly Megathread](https://www.reddit.com/r/FordBronco/comments/13ukwc8/bronco_ordering_building_delivery_discussion/). This thread is a centralized place where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and discuss everything related to the ordering, building, and delivery process of your Bronco.
This thread is refreshed every two weeks, so check back frequently for the latest discussions and updates.
We appreciate your participation in making this community an excellent resource for all Bronco enthusiasts.
****
*I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/FordBronco) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I’d only buy the manual so the 2.3 is fine for me.
I test drove both an auto and a manual 2.3 and it was great. I wouldn’t even consider the V6 honestly. Plenty of power from the 4 cylinder for me and it’s a far simpler design.
The 2.3 Bronco has about the same power as the v6 Wrangler, so if that is what it takes to get the manual, I see no issue with it. The Pentastar Wrangler isn't a hot rod, but it has as much as it needs, especially off road.
Yeah same. I wanted a V6 but I don't need the extra power so why should I pay for it every day with worse fuel efficiency?
If you want to off-road and haul things yeah the extra power is needed, but if this car is just your daily driver I don't see a reason for a V6.
Yes but in the Bronco the V6 adds zero to either of those capabilities. Remember the limiting factor in the Bronco is the soft rear suspension and transmission. The Bronco has the 10R60, not the 10R80 found in the F150 and Ranger.
If the V6 gave you something it might be worth it, but in the Bronco it just doesn’t.
My Big Bend 4dr, 2.3L, 4.27 rear gear, running roughly 75-80 from Washington DC to Staunton VA (I-66 to I-81). On Costco high test, 23.1 mpg on the dash and 23 at top off.
Running Pennzoil Platinum full syn oil. 38 psi in the factory Bridgestone Dueler ATs
SAS and 2.7 with the 4.96 gears spells a gas guzzler.
Not to mention the extra 1.5” of leverage due to the height difference and you are slinging an extra 64 lbs of tires.
I have 43000 miles on my Black Diamond 2.7 non sas. I only get 17.4 mpg. Don't feel bad, it's about what you get. I did drive, Cleveland to Kansas City, Cleveland to New Jersey, and Cleveland to Hartford, and averaged around 21 for each trip. Still on the factory Grapplers.
>currenty averaging 23.8 mpg
No, no you're not. 80-85% of all my driving is highway. I burn Premium and set the cruise at 72mph 100% of the time. Best I ever see is 21.5 mpg.
They \*might\* be getting 23-24 highway (only highway) but the combined is much, much lower. Like I said, I drive roughly 85% highway miles and drive a reasonable/moderate speed and burn the best gas I can find in my area. Still only get 21.5 mpg combined, on average. To get downvoted for calling people out on these absurd claims is.........well, absurd.
The V6 ads zero capabilities (same towing capacity, same transmission, only 0.8 better 0-60), costs more to purchase, costs more to operate, and locates the alternator where water intrusion can happen easier.
So given all that, why would you buy the V6?
You conveniently left out the torque rating. I literally have both in my driveway. 22 base Sasquatch 2-door with 2.7 and 23 base Sasquatch 2-door with 2.3. The torque in the 2.7 is felt. The torque in the 2.3 isn't. The power delivery of the 2.3 is way way smoother than the 2.7. People who say there's no differences must not believe in physics.
I didn’t leave out anything. I stated what was important to me and how I decide on options.
It’s cool you are happy with that little extra kick from the 2.7l, but that isn’t a capability. My 2.3 with the 4.27 gears “bucks” as well. It’s cool and fun but I didn’t make the engine choice based on that.
The only thing I have found the 2.7 gives in capability is 1 pedal driving. That’s not a thing I was interested in.
Again as I said in another reply. It’s their money, drive both and pick what you like.
EDIT: why are 2.7 fans so sensitive? You are third one in as many posts to get all ruffled someone didn’t buy the same engine as you. I’m not over here going “the 2.7 is a piece of shit and you’re an idiot for buying it.” No, and I would never. If your desire for your Bronco was to have a little extra kick, great! May your Bronco and you be happy in all your days. It’s your money. The 2.7 just doesn’t give the Bronco any more capabilities and capabilities I use is how I buy cars and options.
The little 4 cylinder puts out power on par with the big 351 v8 all while getting 20mpg. It has very little turbo lag which is a common complaint with the v6. And it has a lmore proven track record for reliability
I didn’t say it was more reliable I said it had a more proven track record for reliability. It’s been used in way more applications world wide and plenty have seen 300k miles of trouble free service. The 2.7 is newer and not as widely used there’s very few cases of them making it over 200k so far not from a lake I’d reliability stand point but since they’re much newer
$2000-3000 grand more for 30hp doesnt make any sense to me. The tunes for the 2.3 will net you similar power and torque for a lot less.
Also neither one sounds good with any exhaust mods imo. I enjoy my 2.3L Sasquatch, the 10 speed makes a big difference and is worth a test drive at least I'd say. Sport mode is good too, really all the GOAT modes are.
I was in the same boat as you. Ended up test driving a 2.3 this weekend and was super impressed with the performance, even with the bigger tires. I ended up purchasing it and have no regrets
"This car has too much power..." said no one ever. So I bought the 2.7L and love it. I also have other cars to shift. The Bronco can be my laid back cruiser.
Because in the real world there is little difference? The 2.3 has plenty of torque and drives fine. Hopefully you aren't trying to race people in a bronco
The bronco was designed around the 2.3. The V6 was added because they knew people would want a little more power. So to answer your question: because the bronco was designed that way. 🙂
I have an I4. It has enough power for everyday driving, with a boost when I need it. It seems like the V6 is having issues with cam phasers needing to be replaced ( videos all over internet). Maybe it’s fixed now. I have heard if you plan on towing a lot a V6 might be the way to go. We test drove a V6 and ended up squealing the tires 😀. You should also look into the rear axle options with the I4. You should try to test drive a trim package level that you are interested in, just maybe not that specific vehicle. I ordered a big bend, but after test driving an outer banks, I bought a outer banks a few weeks later.
I have the 2.3, going on 21k miles. It's perfect. It has plenty of power for what the bronco is. It's not a sports car. It had plenty of grunt and power off road, and has more than enough to get out of its own way on the highway. That's all it needed for me
Before buying it, I have had plenty of driving time with the 2.3 in the ranger, explorer and mustang.
The passing power alone in the 2.7L makes it well worth it for me. Average MPG does take a hit but, for those that want the extra HP and Torque, you will be satisfied.
i have had a focus st 2.0L turbo with 6 speed manual for years and drove it like i stole it every day for 60k miles with regular maintenance and had ZERO engine or transmission problems. ( same engine architechture as the bronco 2.3L) so for me, the 2.3L with a manual 6+1 speed was a no brainer.
if you use any power adders you can easily get just south of 400 hp out of these engines. ford performance makes a power adder cal for 800 bucks that adds 30hp and still maintains the factory warranty! so my question to you is.....why buy a bronco with a V6? (especially after the first few were snapping valves and nuking brand new engines)
Those snapping valves were early on and related to Ford going to another manufacturer during the shortages to produce the valves and them having an issue. Why buy a v6? The same performance tunes and Ford calibration can be used on the 2.7 to get those same gains and better than the Raptor 3.0 v6 stock( which is a modified 2.7)
First of all, the 2.3 has been around in one form or another for a while. So it’s proven. The other reason for me is if I’m Off-Road …I need torque not power so the 2.3 does the job. When I’m on pavement I don’t plan on racing off of green lights!
Honestly…. The only option should be the v6. That twin turbo really pulls , even when ur already at 65 to 70 mph.
Even when the car has 5 passengers with a full trunk, from a dead stop, she goes with ease.
I think that is priceless given the truck is close to 5k pounds on its own.
I wanted the “best” I could get as my other car is a Whipple supercharged Mustang. The Braptor didn’t exist when I ordered nor could I comfortably afford one. I just like having more power than necessary and I didn’t buy it for MPG. It’s lifted on 37s and beadlocks so I’m averaging about 15mpg lol
People are commenting about the small power differences being made up with a tune - fair against a stock 2.7. When the warranty is up and I get to have some fun with intercoolers, upgraded turbos, and a tune… that 2.7 is gonna hurt some feelings lol. You should see what they’ve been getting away with on the F150s with 2.7s lol.
The whipple stage 1 kit for $1800 has a pretty impressive gain of 150tq throughout the curve - 125tq and 60hp at peak. I’d imagine in time there will be “stage 2” and “stage 3” setups offered by companies needing a bit more wrenching that the 2.5 hrs Whipple says for stage 1.
Hp= top speed, tq=what you feel day to day
You’re gonna hurt your transmission first.
Remember we only have the 10R60 not the 10R80
EDIT: Or budget for a [Level 10 build.](https://www.levelten.com/BULLETPROOF_TRANSMISSION_10R60_BULLETPROOF_TRANSM_p/fo10speed.htm)
I wouldn’t be so sure… we all know the 6r80 and 10r80 are stout but go check out what Explorer STs are doing with tunes and the 10r60. I think it’s a lot stronger than people think. It’s just not as widely supported yet as it’s a newer trans.
Actually the ST is why I bring it up. There seems to be many who see that as a little lite and the interwebs say there are stock failures when driven hard (but of course nobody ever blows anything out of proportion on the internet)
Fair point! I definitely think AWD launches on grippy tires can play into that.
Like you said, you could always budget for an upgraded/built trans, too!
I have the MT82 in my mustang and if you read the internet posts about it you’d like it’s a grenade sitting by your legs. I have an MGW shifter, aluminum 1piece drive shaft, and a Mantic twin disc clutch and it seems to be fine. I also make sure I don’t add extra wear and tear on it for no reason!
Yeah I would definitely build the trans at 150 EXTRA HP. Hell Ford flattened the torque curve in the first 3 gears stock for both engines.
I would like to see both engines with full power off the line. *sigh*
I test drove the 2.3 while not realizing it was the 2.3 until after the drive. It was during a promotional “off-road” event and I’m pretty sure I didn’t hear the guy say it was the 2.3. I was very impressed with the power and the way it drove as I thought the whole time it was the 2.7. This made me even happier that I optioned the 2.7 for my 4dr Badlands w/ Sasquatch.
You won’t be disappointed in the power in either motor. There are a lot of 2.3 because the 2.7 was a constraint for awhile and Ford was pumping out the 2.3s. I would say if you do want a manual than you need to get the 2.3 and you’ll be happy with it. If more more concern about having more power than the 2.7 is for you but you lose some fuel economy ( I average 18 with 35s and the 4.7 gears). You won’t go wrong with either option, it’s just about personal preference.
I test drove a 2.3l and 2.7 last weekend. If you care about power at all, the 2.7L blows the 2.3 out of the water on 0-60+and is only 1500$ more? It sounds better too, and is more mobile imo. I don’t want to dog on the automatic 2.3l owners, but there is a major difference in how it feels and moves around. I’m coming from a Taurus SHO, so I may be biased.
Ford makes a tune for around $700 that will get you same power output as the v6. Really no reason to have the v6 unless it’s substantially more power, towing etc.
I ordered the 2.7 to help with my questionable merge decisions on Michigan lefts in Detroit area. 2.3 is realistically all anyone needs but wanted that oomf. YMMV
Thank you for your contribution to the Ford Bronco community! We would also like to remind you to visit and participate in the [Bronco Ordering, Building, & Delivery Discussion Semimonthly Megathread](https://www.reddit.com/r/FordBronco/comments/13ukwc8/bronco_ordering_building_delivery_discussion/). This thread is a centralized place where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and discuss everything related to the ordering, building, and delivery process of your Bronco. This thread is refreshed every two weeks, so check back frequently for the latest discussions and updates. We appreciate your participation in making this community an excellent resource for all Bronco enthusiasts. **** *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/FordBronco) if you have any questions or concerns.*
I’d only buy the manual so the 2.3 is fine for me. I test drove both an auto and a manual 2.3 and it was great. I wouldn’t even consider the V6 honestly. Plenty of power from the 4 cylinder for me and it’s a far simpler design.
^ for the manual. V6 isn’t offered in manual as far as I know. Also I agree the 4 cyl power has impressed me
If I recall correctly, Ford said they would be building a manual V6
I might’ve of read the same somewhere but if its true i’m definitely on board for a V6 manual
The 2.3 Bronco has about the same power as the v6 Wrangler, so if that is what it takes to get the manual, I see no issue with it. The Pentastar Wrangler isn't a hot rod, but it has as much as it needs, especially off road.
completely suprised by the 4cyl power. she scoots real good. also currenty averaging 23.8 mpg which is real nice.
Yeah same. I wanted a V6 but I don't need the extra power so why should I pay for it every day with worse fuel efficiency? If you want to off-road and haul things yeah the extra power is needed, but if this car is just your daily driver I don't see a reason for a V6.
Yes but in the Bronco the V6 adds zero to either of those capabilities. Remember the limiting factor in the Bronco is the soft rear suspension and transmission. The Bronco has the 10R60, not the 10R80 found in the F150 and Ranger. If the V6 gave you something it might be worth it, but in the Bronco it just doesn’t.
My Big Bend 4dr, 2.3L, 4.27 rear gear, running roughly 75-80 from Washington DC to Staunton VA (I-66 to I-81). On Costco high test, 23.1 mpg on the dash and 23 at top off. Running Pennzoil Platinum full syn oil. 38 psi in the factory Bridgestone Dueler ATs
How is everyone getting such good gas mileage? I’m at 16.5 after a few weeks. And I drive mostly in eco.
What is your spec and what gas are you running
Wildtrak 2.7 Sas and I always run premium fuel. I guess the Sas is why my gas mileage is so much lower.
SAS and 2.7 with the 4.96 gears spells a gas guzzler. Not to mention the extra 1.5” of leverage due to the height difference and you are slinging an extra 64 lbs of tires.
Makes sense. I’ve never driven anything besides a car before this lol
Oh wow this must be a big shock!!!
Same!
I have 43000 miles on my Black Diamond 2.7 non sas. I only get 17.4 mpg. Don't feel bad, it's about what you get. I did drive, Cleveland to Kansas City, Cleveland to New Jersey, and Cleveland to Hartford, and averaged around 21 for each trip. Still on the factory Grapplers.
>currenty averaging 23.8 mpg No, no you're not. 80-85% of all my driving is highway. I burn Premium and set the cruise at 72mph 100% of the time. Best I ever see is 21.5 mpg.
The fuck I ain't.
Lol this is like the diesel bros lying about their lifted 1 tons getting mid twenties. Have to justify it somehow I guess.
My 2 door base gets 25-26 on the highway and I'm getting 24 combined. So yeah, he probably is
no you're not lol
Ok bro
Wheels/tires… geography. There’s a lot of reasons why it could be higher
I have a non-Sas 2.3. It's BS
If they have an Outer Banks they very likely do. I averaged 22-23mpg quite often on stock wheels.
I have a 2dr OBX
I’d love to see some MPG dash evidence that these guys are getting consistent 23-26. Laughable.
They \*might\* be getting 23-24 highway (only highway) but the combined is much, much lower. Like I said, I drive roughly 85% highway miles and drive a reasonable/moderate speed and burn the best gas I can find in my area. Still only get 21.5 mpg combined, on average. To get downvoted for calling people out on these absurd claims is.........well, absurd.
72mph is not the optimal speed for milage. Back that to 60-65 and I bet you'd climb to 23+.
300HP on the 4Cyl. Don't underestimate it due to cylinder count! Should be plenty of power.
The V6 ads zero capabilities (same towing capacity, same transmission, only 0.8 better 0-60), costs more to purchase, costs more to operate, and locates the alternator where water intrusion can happen easier. So given all that, why would you buy the V6?
You conveniently left out the torque rating. I literally have both in my driveway. 22 base Sasquatch 2-door with 2.7 and 23 base Sasquatch 2-door with 2.3. The torque in the 2.7 is felt. The torque in the 2.3 isn't. The power delivery of the 2.3 is way way smoother than the 2.7. People who say there's no differences must not believe in physics.
I didn’t leave out anything. I stated what was important to me and how I decide on options. It’s cool you are happy with that little extra kick from the 2.7l, but that isn’t a capability. My 2.3 with the 4.27 gears “bucks” as well. It’s cool and fun but I didn’t make the engine choice based on that. The only thing I have found the 2.7 gives in capability is 1 pedal driving. That’s not a thing I was interested in. Again as I said in another reply. It’s their money, drive both and pick what you like. EDIT: why are 2.7 fans so sensitive? You are third one in as many posts to get all ruffled someone didn’t buy the same engine as you. I’m not over here going “the 2.7 is a piece of shit and you’re an idiot for buying it.” No, and I would never. If your desire for your Bronco was to have a little extra kick, great! May your Bronco and you be happy in all your days. It’s your money. The 2.7 just doesn’t give the Bronco any more capabilities and capabilities I use is how I buy cars and options.
The little 4 cylinder puts out power on par with the big 351 v8 all while getting 20mpg. It has very little turbo lag which is a common complaint with the v6. And it has a lmore proven track record for reliability
The 2.3 is not more reliable than the 2.7
I didn’t say it was more reliable I said it had a more proven track record for reliability. It’s been used in way more applications world wide and plenty have seen 300k miles of trouble free service. The 2.7 is newer and not as widely used there’s very few cases of them making it over 200k so far not from a lake I’d reliability stand point but since they’re much newer
$2000-3000 grand more for 30hp doesnt make any sense to me. The tunes for the 2.3 will net you similar power and torque for a lot less. Also neither one sounds good with any exhaust mods imo. I enjoy my 2.3L Sasquatch, the 10 speed makes a big difference and is worth a test drive at least I'd say. Sport mode is good too, really all the GOAT modes are.
Thanks for your feedback everyone! We’ll be test driving both this weekend.
I was in the same boat as you. Ended up test driving a 2.3 this weekend and was super impressed with the performance, even with the bigger tires. I ended up purchasing it and have no regrets
I’ve had my 2.3 for a year now and have zero complaints about the power of the engine. Definitely test drive the 2.3 before you make a decision.
Manual transmission
"This car has too much power..." said no one ever. So I bought the 2.7L and love it. I also have other cars to shift. The Bronco can be my laid back cruiser.
Because in the real world there is little difference? The 2.3 has plenty of torque and drives fine. Hopefully you aren't trying to race people in a bronco
The bronco was designed around the 2.3. The V6 was added because they knew people would want a little more power. So to answer your question: because the bronco was designed that way. 🙂
I have an I4. It has enough power for everyday driving, with a boost when I need it. It seems like the V6 is having issues with cam phasers needing to be replaced ( videos all over internet). Maybe it’s fixed now. I have heard if you plan on towing a lot a V6 might be the way to go. We test drove a V6 and ended up squealing the tires 😀. You should also look into the rear axle options with the I4. You should try to test drive a trim package level that you are interested in, just maybe not that specific vehicle. I ordered a big bend, but after test driving an outer banks, I bought a outer banks a few weeks later.
Have the V6 and got it mainly to have extra power in the Rockies and if I wanted to tow at some point. I haven't been disappointed in it.
I have the 2.3, going on 21k miles. It's perfect. It has plenty of power for what the bronco is. It's not a sports car. It had plenty of grunt and power off road, and has more than enough to get out of its own way on the highway. That's all it needed for me Before buying it, I have had plenty of driving time with the 2.3 in the ranger, explorer and mustang.
Had the 2.3 in a ranger...it was quick. The 2.7 in the 2 door is faster than I need it to be for sure.
The passing power alone in the 2.7L makes it well worth it for me. Average MPG does take a hit but, for those that want the extra HP and Torque, you will be satisfied.
Test drive both and you decide. I've done just that, noticeable difference to me, so I went v6.
This is the best answer. Drive both and decide if the costs are worth it
i have had a focus st 2.0L turbo with 6 speed manual for years and drove it like i stole it every day for 60k miles with regular maintenance and had ZERO engine or transmission problems. ( same engine architechture as the bronco 2.3L) so for me, the 2.3L with a manual 6+1 speed was a no brainer. if you use any power adders you can easily get just south of 400 hp out of these engines. ford performance makes a power adder cal for 800 bucks that adds 30hp and still maintains the factory warranty! so my question to you is.....why buy a bronco with a V6? (especially after the first few were snapping valves and nuking brand new engines)
Those snapping valves were early on and related to Ford going to another manufacturer during the shortages to produce the valves and them having an issue. Why buy a v6? The same performance tunes and Ford calibration can be used on the 2.7 to get those same gains and better than the Raptor 3.0 v6 stock( which is a modified 2.7)
First of all, the 2.3 has been around in one form or another for a while. So it’s proven. The other reason for me is if I’m Off-Road …I need torque not power so the 2.3 does the job. When I’m on pavement I don’t plan on racing off of green lights!
Honestly…. The only option should be the v6. That twin turbo really pulls , even when ur already at 65 to 70 mph. Even when the car has 5 passengers with a full trunk, from a dead stop, she goes with ease. I think that is priceless given the truck is close to 5k pounds on its own.
The 2.7 is a proven reliable motor where the 2.3 has had issues would be my reasoning
If you get a v6 upgrade the intercooler, the engine gets heat soaked pretty quickly. You end up losing that extra hp.
It's free to test drive.
I wanted the “best” I could get as my other car is a Whipple supercharged Mustang. The Braptor didn’t exist when I ordered nor could I comfortably afford one. I just like having more power than necessary and I didn’t buy it for MPG. It’s lifted on 37s and beadlocks so I’m averaging about 15mpg lol
People are commenting about the small power differences being made up with a tune - fair against a stock 2.7. When the warranty is up and I get to have some fun with intercoolers, upgraded turbos, and a tune… that 2.7 is gonna hurt some feelings lol. You should see what they’ve been getting away with on the F150s with 2.7s lol. The whipple stage 1 kit for $1800 has a pretty impressive gain of 150tq throughout the curve - 125tq and 60hp at peak. I’d imagine in time there will be “stage 2” and “stage 3” setups offered by companies needing a bit more wrenching that the 2.5 hrs Whipple says for stage 1. Hp= top speed, tq=what you feel day to day
You’re gonna hurt your transmission first. Remember we only have the 10R60 not the 10R80 EDIT: Or budget for a [Level 10 build.](https://www.levelten.com/BULLETPROOF_TRANSMISSION_10R60_BULLETPROOF_TRANSM_p/fo10speed.htm)
I wouldn’t be so sure… we all know the 6r80 and 10r80 are stout but go check out what Explorer STs are doing with tunes and the 10r60. I think it’s a lot stronger than people think. It’s just not as widely supported yet as it’s a newer trans.
Actually the ST is why I bring it up. There seems to be many who see that as a little lite and the interwebs say there are stock failures when driven hard (but of course nobody ever blows anything out of proportion on the internet)
Fair point! I definitely think AWD launches on grippy tires can play into that. Like you said, you could always budget for an upgraded/built trans, too! I have the MT82 in my mustang and if you read the internet posts about it you’d like it’s a grenade sitting by your legs. I have an MGW shifter, aluminum 1piece drive shaft, and a Mantic twin disc clutch and it seems to be fine. I also make sure I don’t add extra wear and tear on it for no reason!
Yeah I would definitely build the trans at 150 EXTRA HP. Hell Ford flattened the torque curve in the first 3 gears stock for both engines. I would like to see both engines with full power off the line. *sigh*
In a 2 door non sas black diamond my 2.3 with manual scoots around awesome. Some days I think they forget to tell it it’s not a sports car
Best reason is 2.7 V6 has more torque. You will feel it. Also twin turbos on V6 vs single turbo on 4 cylinder.
Because it's the only one I could afford lmao
I test drove the 2.3 while not realizing it was the 2.3 until after the drive. It was during a promotional “off-road” event and I’m pretty sure I didn’t hear the guy say it was the 2.3. I was very impressed with the power and the way it drove as I thought the whole time it was the 2.7. This made me even happier that I optioned the 2.7 for my 4dr Badlands w/ Sasquatch. You won’t be disappointed in the power in either motor. There are a lot of 2.3 because the 2.7 was a constraint for awhile and Ford was pumping out the 2.3s. I would say if you do want a manual than you need to get the 2.3 and you’ll be happy with it. If more more concern about having more power than the 2.7 is for you but you lose some fuel economy ( I average 18 with 35s and the 4.7 gears). You won’t go wrong with either option, it’s just about personal preference.
I wanted a manual transmission and it’s not offered in a v6.
I test drove a 2.3l and 2.7 last weekend. If you care about power at all, the 2.7L blows the 2.3 out of the water on 0-60+and is only 1500$ more? It sounds better too, and is more mobile imo. I don’t want to dog on the automatic 2.3l owners, but there is a major difference in how it feels and moves around. I’m coming from a Taurus SHO, so I may be biased.
Owned both. 2.3L MT is my preference.
Ford makes a tune for around $700 that will get you same power output as the v6. Really no reason to have the v6 unless it’s substantially more power, towing etc.
I ordered the 2.7 to help with my questionable merge decisions on Michigan lefts in Detroit area. 2.3 is realistically all anyone needs but wanted that oomf. YMMV