When we last saw the upcoming Ford Bronco Raptor, Ford reps released a few still images of the Raptor chilling at an undisclosed off-road track. But while we welcomed the minimal amount of camouflage, there’s no substitute for raw video footage of this beefed-up Bronco slogging its way through the muck. Thankfully, Ford (via Bronco Nation) has delivered the goods and has now released a teaser video that offers a dynamic glimpse into some of the Bronco Raptor’s capabilities.
Turbocharging Will Highlight Trail Adventures
The nearly three-minute video helps shine a spotlight on some of the Bronco Raptor’s finer details, and that includes whatever is lurking underneath the Raptor’s hood. Ford has still not revealed what it exactly has cleared for Raptor duty (though they did dismiss any notion of a V8-powered Bronco in the past), but it has a distinctly turbocharged character. While the turbocharged 2.7 liter EcoBoost V6 is the most logical suspect, some recent posts on the “independent” Ford approved fan forum Bronco Nation have hinted at the Raptor offering 350 hp. That would seem to suggest that the Explorer’s 3.0 liter twin-turbocharged V6 will find its way into the Bronco though we’ll have to wait for more evidence to emerge to validate that theory.
Unfortunately, this video does not give a glimpse into the new Bronco variant’s interior but look for the changes inside (when we eventually get to see them) to be minimal with heavily bolstered seats and some minor trim differences to help the Raptor stand out from its lesser siblings.
Bronco Raptor Gains Beefier Equipment
As a consolation prize, Ford’s video details some of the trail-ready equipment that will be coming to the Bronco Raptor. The suspension, differential, and even the control arms are chunkier and more durable than what you see in mainstream Broncos. The rear coil-sprint suspension also peeks into view, and it’s rumored to be a version of the same twin-bypass setup that Fox uses in the bigger Raptor pickup.
All of this is paired with a slightly widened track and bigger off-road tires, which look like they can deliver the goods when it comes to the core essentials of off-roading. Ford even parked an Outer Banks grade Bronco next to it to further highlight the differences between the Raptor and its siblings. As for what the Raptor could compete against, look for this model to go head to head with the Jeep Wrangler Xtreme package, especially if it’s one equipped with the 6.4 liter V8.
Ford hasn’t revealed when the Bronco Raptor will be formally unveiled but look for it to make its official debut in early 2022. That would potentially put it in line for a reveal either at the 2022 Chicago Auto Show or at a smaller event. Regardless, look for the Bronco Raptor to generate plenty of buzz, especially out on the open trail.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.