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The 2027 Ford Bronco RTR Is a Game-Changing Off-Roader for the Next Generation
By Sarah Chen
January 13, 2026
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2027 Ford Bronco RTR | Cars.com photo by Nick Carter
Key Points
Ford has partnered with RTR Vehicles to develop a high-performance four-cylinder Bronco RTR that promises to deliver the thrills of the Bronco Raptor at a significantly lower price point.
The Bronco RTR is slated for an October 2026 release, with full specifications and pricing details expected closer to the launch date.
For automotive enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of performance, style, and value, the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR emerges as a serious contender in the off-road market.
If you’re a young automotive enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with RTR Vehicles, the performance tuning company founded by drift king Vaughn Gittin Jr. Having already collaborated with Ford on the Mustang EcoBoost RTR, a turbocharged drift coupe that brings affordable performance and bold styling to Mustang enthusiasts, RTR has established itself as a go-to brand for accessible performance. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to consider RTR Vehicles the Shelby for the 21st-century zoomer generation, but the company’s expertise extends beyond street vehicles.
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2027 Ford Bronco RTR | Cars.com photo by Nick Carter
To showcase their extensive experience in Ultra4 off-road racing, RTR Vehicles has once again joined forces with Ford to introduce the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR. This new model represents a no-frills, value-oriented, yet feature-rich off-road Bronco designed to handle high-speed desert runs with capabilities approaching those of the much more expensive Bronco Raptor, but without the luxury trappings that drive up the price. In essence, it’s the Mustang RTR philosophy applied to the dirt – raw performance with a focus on the driving experience.
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Visually Stunning Design with Heritage Roots
The exterior of the Bronco RTR has undergone a significant transformation, bringing it in line with RTR’s distinctive aesthetic. The most noticeable change is the new grille, which features signature hockey-stick-style LED running lights that create an aggressive and instantly recognizable front-end appearance. The fender flares adopt a squared-off, heritage-inspired design that pays homage to classic Bronco models while providing ample clearance for the unique 17-inch RTR Evo 6 beadlock-capable wheels. These wheels come standard wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires, ready to tackle challenging off-road conditions.
Adding a vibrant pop of color to the Bronco RTR are the Hyper Lime accents found throughout the vehicle, from the wheel rock rings to various trim pieces. While the featured Avalanche Gray paint provides a striking backdrop, a Ford spokesperson confirmed that a wider range of exterior colors will be available, ensuring buyers can personalize their ride to their taste. The special graphics adorning the Bronco RTR further enhance its aggressive stance, creating a cohesive and visually cohesive package that stands out from the standard Bronco lineup.
The Really Interesting Bits: Unpacking the Performance Upgrades
But the Bronco RTR is far more than just a stylish exterior and a new paint scheme – the most exciting advancements lie beneath the hood. The RTR is based on the Big Bend trim level, according to Ford, meaning it comes standard with the robust turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. However, RTR has introduced several performance enhancements that significantly elevate the driving experience.
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2027 Ford Bronco RTR | Cars.com photo by Nick Carter
One of the most significant additions is the Baja mode, which activates an exclusive antilag feature in the turbo engine. This innovative system maintains boost pressure when the driver lifts off the throttle, providing instant torque on demand. In a Mustang, this feature is invaluable for maintaining momentum during drifts, but in the Bronco, it proves its worth in more rugged applications, such as navigating sand dunes or executing jumps over rough terrain.
To ensure optimal engine performance under demanding conditions, RTR has incorporated the 1,000-watt high-powered cooling fan from the Bronco Raptor, with some additional refinements to suit the RTR’s specific needs. This enhanced cooling system is crucial for maintaining consistent power output during prolonged high-performance driving, preventing heat-related power loss and ensuring the Bronco RTR can maintain its exhilarating pace.
Suspension System Optimized for High-Speed Off-Roading
The suspension in the Bronco RTR has also received significant attention, featuring a retuned setup with revised geometry to deliver a wider track and a slightly lifted stance. This optimized suspension configuration contributes to improved stability and handling characteristics, particularly at higher speeds over uneven surfaces.
For buyers seeking the ultimate off-road experience, specifying the Sasquatch Package for the Bronco RTR unlocks even more impressive capabilities. This package equips the Bronco RTR with 35-inch tires and the Hoss 3.0 suspension system, featuring Fox internal bypass shock absorbers – components previously exclusive to the more upscale Bronco Badlands trim.
It’s worth noting that this suspension setup bears a closer resemblance to the shocks found on the first-generation F-150 Raptor rather than the latest versions on the current Bronco Raptor. However, this is far from a drawback. The first-generation Raptor’s suspension is renowned for its durability and effectiveness in handling high-speed desert running, making it an excellent choice for the Bronco RTR’s intended purpose. This setup is specifically engineered to allow for high-speed runs over rough terrain and to provide the necessary travel and damping for landing jumps when the driver chooses to get some air.
Anticipation Builds: What to Expect Before the Official Launch
We still have a considerable wait ahead of us before we can get behind the wheel of the new 2027 Bronco RTR. Ford has opted to showcase this new SUV well in advance of its arrival in showrooms, building anticipation for what promises to be an exciting addition to the Bronco lineup.
Ordering for the Bronco RTR is scheduled to commence in October 2026, with deliveries slated to begin in January 2027 – a full year from now. Pricing details will be announced closer to the on-sale date, at which point we’ll likely receive additional information regarding any interior upgrades or special features that may be included.
On paper, the Bronco RTR certainly appears promising. By offering a potentially lighter and more nimble alternative to the Bronco Raptor at a more accessible price point, it addresses a significant gap in the market. However, the true test of its capabilities will come during real-world testing. A romp through Johnson Valley, California, the proving ground where the Bronco RTR was developed, will provide the definitive answer to whether it lives up to its considerable potential.
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