2027 Ford Bronco RTR
By Lorenzo Bianchi January 15, 2026
Developed with RTR and tested extensively in Johnson Valley for high-speed desert use.
Prioritizes suspension travel and reduced weight over maximum performance.
Positioned as a more approachable performance off-road vehicle beneath the Bronco Raptor.
Constructed with a Clear Brief in the Desert
A particular environment was considered during the development of the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR.
Johnson Valley, a proving ground known for exposing weaknesses quickly, became the reference point during development, with off-road racer Loren Healy closely involved alongside RTR Vehicles founder Vaughn Gittin Jr.
From the outset, the objective was clear. Ford and RTR wanted to deliver the sensation of high-speed desert driving without pushing buyers into Bronco Raptor territory. The result is a Bronco that sits deliberately between the core lineup and the Raptor, aimed at enthusiasts who value pace and confidence across sand and open terrain.
Suspension and Chassis Focus
The Bronco RTR differentiates itself through suspension and stance rather than headline power figures. A high-clearance suspension paired with standard 33-inch tyres creates a combination not previously offered on a Bronco, giving it a visual attitude that immediately signals intent.
For buyers opting into the Sasquatch package, Ford includes the HOSS 3.0 suspension with FOX internal bypass dampers as standard. This setup is typically reserved for higher trims with multiple options added, but here it is positioned as a core element of the RTR concept. The emphasis is on maintaining control at speed, absorbing repeated impacts without bottoming out, and keeping the driver committed on loose surfaces.
Powertrain Choice and Weight Considerations
Rather than chasing outright power, the Bronco RTR uses the 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission in four-door form. The reasoning is rooted in mass distribution. A lighter front end allows the Bronco to skim across sand rather than dig in, delivering a more agile, pre-runner-like feel compared with heavier setups.
To support sustained high-speed running, the engine receives a 1,000-watt cooling fan borrowed from the Bronco Raptor, alongside a software-controlled, race-derived anti-lag system. The aim is immediate throttle response when powering out of soft sand, reducing delay as boost builds.
Design Details and Visual Identity
Visually, the Bronco RTR blends functional Bronco design with recognisable RTR attitude. The focal point is a redesigned grille with distinctive RTR lighting, and heritage-inspired wheel arches and RTR-specific Evo 6 wheels give character without going overboard.
Available Hyper Lime accents, bold graphics, and Avalanche Grey paint ensure the RTR stands apart from the rest of the Bronco range. The stance is deliberate. Bigger tyres, more suspension travel, and exposed hardware make its purpose clear before it turns a wheel.