It’s happening.
Ford is announcing the arrival of the Bronco Raptor. Our spy photographers took a rugged Bronco to test on multiple occasions. Ford could not hide the larger fenders and higher ride heights of the test vehicles, so today’s official first look at the off-roader is available.
Ford CEO Jim Farley posted a brief video to Twitter, teasing the Bronco Raptor. However, it doesn’t reveal much. We get our first glimpse at the Bronco’s new grille. It borrows bold FORD branding from the F150 Raptor. It also features three running lights that indicate a wider stance. The Bronco Raptor will sport a similar-looking “Raptor”, which is shown at the end the teaser, along with the SUV’s 2022 release date.
The Bronco Raptor’s powertrain is still unknown. There are rumors that the Bronco Raptor will be powered by a twin-turbocharged Ford 3.0-liter V6 engine, or its 3.5-liter twin turbo one. The Explorer ST’s smaller engine produces 400 horsepower and 298 kilowatts. The F-150 Raptor’s V6 produces 450 horsepower (335 kW). Ford will combine the SUV’s additional power with greater off-road capability. This could include a wider stance and raised suspension.
Although the teaser video suggests that the Bronco Raptor will be released in 2022, it’s not clear. Ford could unveil it next year, with plans to have it on sale by the end of 2023. That would be very exciting. The Bronco is still experiencing production problems, which has led to a backlog in orders. We expect Ford to keep hyping the Bronco Raptor up until its official unveiling, and we will continue to learn more about it.