Ford Bronco RTR: A More Accessible Off-Road Powerhouse

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Ford is introducing the 2027 Bronco RTR, a new model designed to bridge the gap between the standard Bronco and the high-performance Raptor. This move is aimed at capturing a younger demographic – Gen Z and Millennials – with a more affordable, yet still capable, off-road vehicle.

What Sets the RTR Apart?

The RTR (“Ready to Rock”) variant focuses on aggressive styling and upgraded hardware without the Raptor’s steep price tag. It comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine, 33-inch tires, and a lifted suspension. Buyers can also opt for the Sasquatch package, which unlocks 35-inch tires, advanced Fox dampers, and a locking front differential for enhanced off-road performance.

Key Specs:

  • Engine: 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder (275 hp with anti-lag tech)
  • Tires: Standard 33-inch, optional 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT
  • Suspension: Lifted suspension; optional Fox internal-bypass dampers (HOSS 3.0)
  • Price: Expected to start under $52,000

Why This Matters: A Gateway to Extreme Off-Roading

The Bronco RTR serves as a stepping stone for those considering the more extreme (and pricier) Raptor variant. The Raptor begins at around $82,000, making it inaccessible to many. The RTR offers a similar aesthetic and improved capability at a lower cost, potentially attracting buyers who would otherwise opt for a different vehicle altogether.

The RTR’s inclusion of the Raptor’s 1000-watt cooling fan demonstrates Ford’s willingness to trickle down high-end features into more accessible models. This strategy not only boosts the RTR’s appeal but also enhances the Bronco lineup as a whole.

Design and Aesthetics

The RTR stands out with its distinctive grille, featuring integrated lighting elements that blend with the Bronco’s existing DRL signature. It also inherits squared-off fenders from the Heritage Edition and comes standard with 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels from RTR.

Bold Accents: Hyper Lime decals and accents on the grille, fender-mounted trail sights, and wheel rings provide a polarizing aesthetic. Ford offers the option to omit these features for buyers who prefer a more subdued look.

Availability and Pricing

Orders for the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR open in October, with deliveries scheduled for January. Pricing is expected to begin under $52,000, making it more affordable than the Badlands model with the Sasquatch package.

The Bronco RTR is not just a trim level; it’s a strategic move by Ford to capture a wider audience in the growing off-road segment. By offering a taste of Raptor-level capability at a more reasonable price, Ford is effectively broadening the appeal of its iconic Bronco lineup.