Ford unveils Bronco Raptor, a dune-jumping SUV

The Bronco Raptor, a high-performance version of Ford’s off-road Jeep Wrangler competitor, was just introduced. This version, based on desert racing trucks, has more power, bigger tyres, and higher suspension than a conventional Bronco, allowing it to bound across sand dunes at “highway speeds,” according to Ford.

The Bronco Raptor is powered by a turbocharged V6 engine designed particularly for this model, according to Ford. According to the company, it will produce at least 400 horsepower, though actual power estimates will be announced later. A 10-speed automatic transmission will be standard on the Bronco Raptor. The steering wheel-mounted paddles can be used to move gears, but there is no manual gearbox option.

The Bronco Raptor is 9.8 inches wider than a standard Bronco, with large black fender flares concealing its wide off-road tyres for improved stability. It’s also taller than a conventional Bronco, with 4.8 inches extra ground clearance and 37-inch tall tyres. Various mechanical components are larger and tougher than on a conventional Bronco in order to withstand harsher off-road usage.

Underneath the body, heavy-duty metal plates protect the engine, transmission, and other components from pebbles and boulders. Only the four-door body will be available for the Bronco Raptor. Two doors are offered on the standard Bronco.

The Bronco Raptor will cost around $70,000, which is roughly twice as much as a base model Ford Bronco 4-door. It will fight against hard-core, high-performance off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler 392, which has 470 horsepower.

Customers will be able to order the Bronco Raptor starting in March, but the majority of the order spots will be filled by customers who are currently on the Bronco waiting list. According to Ford, the SUV will begin arriving on dealer lots in the summer.