Ford Bronco RTR unveiled: more style for high-speed desert racing

Ford is expanding the Bronco family by one. The 2027 Ford Bronco RTR aims to deliver high-speed desert running capabilities similar to the Raptor, with an extra dose of style and an attractive starting price.

Vaugh Gitten Jr.’s RTR has been upgrading Ford Mustangs and Broncos for a while now – and it’s clear the formula is working. Now Ford wants to bring RTR even deeper into the product mix with a factory-bred RTR off-roader. The Bronco RTR is a logical extension of this collaboration and the spec sheet sounds intriguing.

A set of 33.0-inch tires are standard. Ford uses its high-clearance suspension system, which adds a slight lift. You’ll notice plenty of Hyper Lime trim up front, the RTR grille, and RTR’s signature lighting treatment. RTR is also trading in a set of its Evo 6 wheels, which are beadlock capable.

Ford and RTR have learned a lot from their desert racing efforts. This is evident from the included software upgrade to improve turbo performance. The Bronco RTR features off-road optimized anti-lag technology. Essentially, the turbo continues to spin to maintain boost, which in turn provides smooth, consistent throttle performance.

To take it one step further, Ford is replacing the Bronco Raptor’s cooling fan. That’s a necessary upgrade if you plan to spend a lot of time logging heavy miles in hot environments.

Photo by: Ford

However, there is a way to take the Bronco RTR to the next level. Ford offers a Sasquatch package for this, which ditches the 33s in favor of 35.0-inch tires. Even better, though, is that the truck now wears the HOSS 3.0 suspension system, complete with Fox shocks.

Previously, the HOSS setup was only available on Badlands models. This is great news for Bronco buyers as we see more capable components working their way up the Bronco family ladder.

Also good news: Ford says the Bronco RTR will land with a relatively attractive starting price. “Bronco RTR is a new sweet spot for performance value and style in the lineup,” said Haley Skiko, Bronco Brand Manager. “We’re delivering Raptor-inspired high-speed capabilities with a lower starting price than Badlands Sasquatch.”

The Bronco RTR will make its public debut at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show. You can see the truck in its element at Johnson Valley during the upcoming King of the Hammers race in February. Or, if you’re ready to drop some cash, the truck can be ordered from October, with deliveries expected in January 2027.

Engine1 takes: A rugged Bronco with an extra dose of style and fast performance is a welcome addition to the lineup. Especially when Ford says the starting price will undercut the Badlands Sasquatch. This Bronco RTR sounds like it gives you near-Raptor-like capabilities without completely breaking your bank account.