Yahoo Autos Here's Your First Real Look at the Bronco Raptor
Ever since the debut of the reborn Ford Bronco, fans of the nameplate have been clamoring for the automaker to give the SUV the proper Raptor treatment. While there was initially some confusion surrounding what name such a vehicle might carry, Ford is finally ready to start sharing some more information about the upcoming range-topping off-roader. Thanks to the folks at Bronco Nation, we have our first official look at the SUV. Folks, the photos don’t disappoint.
As with the F-150 model of the same name, the Bronco Raptor immediately distinguishes itself from the rest of the range by its sheer width. The SUV is substantially wider than its more demure counterparts, as more pronounced flares and what appear to be reworked fenders give the SUV a bulldog’s silhouette. The width isn’t for show, as the truck also appears to be wearing a set of larger 37-inch tires. Fans of the brand may recall that the F-150 Raptor is also available with 37s, though the truck comes as standard with 35-inch rubber. Expect the Bronco to follow suit in offering both sizes. The larger tires will help improve the SUV’s approach, departure, and break-over angles.
Closer examination of the photos also gives us our first look at the Bronco Raptor’s reworked suspension set-up. Car and Driver reported that the truck will receive a set of Fox’s Live Wire twin-tube bypass dampers, which it appears will now be mounted with a through-bolt layout. Raptor fans may recognize that this is the same setup as the F-150 model. It also looks like the Bronco Raptor will get much larger lower control arms at both ends, again inspired by the F-150. The visual tweaks come from the pickup too, such as the new “FORD” scripted grille with integrated amber marker lights.
One area fans may not be excited to see the Bronco Raptor mimic the F-150 is in the engine bay. Unfortunately for the V-8 die-hards among us, the images highlighted here clearly show an intercooler tucking behind the new front bumper. This means that Ford is most likely opting to utilize one of the twin-turbo V-6s it has at its disposal. Speculation has swirled regarding whether that engine will be the same 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine as found in the F-150, or possibly Ford’s 3.0-liter unit found in the Explorer ST. Regardless of which V-6 is chosen, expect total output to exceed 400 hp.
The Ford Bronco Raptor is slated to arrive in 2022, which suddenly feels a lot longer of a wait than before. That said, Ford will likely start to release more information and teasers about the hardcore off-roader as the official debut date approaches. For now, we’re left to thank the team at Bronco Nation for this little morsel.
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