Ford Bronco RTR: Smaller Engine, Bigger Payoff

In September 2027, the Ford Bronco off-road family will gain a new flagship variant: the factory-built Bronco RTR, developed in partnership with Vaughn Gittin Jr. This is not a cosmetic appearance package, but a fully fledged production model born on test grounds and headed for Ford’s main assembly line. Its philosophy is simple: near-top-tier off-road capability (just below the Bronco Raptor), with a stronger focus on handling and affordability.

The long-awaited debut will take place at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, where Ford will unveil the 2027 Bronco RTR. Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s company is best known for its heavily modified Ford Mustangs, making this project a logical next step. Its founder and RTR Vehicles driver Loren Healy is not only a drift legend, but also a seasoned off-road racer, including competitions in the King of the Hammers series in California. It was among the dunes and rocks of Johnson Valley that the Bronco RTR underwent its final development testing.

Traditionally, vehicles like this were built by third-party tuners. With the RTR, however, Ford is bringing the concept directly into its official model lineup—promising more reasonable pricing and wider availability. The approach closely mirrors Ford Performance’s strategy: take race-proven technology and make it accessible for everyday use.

Power vs. Control: The 2.3-Liter EcoBoost Philosophy

At the heart of the Bronco RTR is the familiar 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, producing around 300 horsepower, already known from standard Bronco models. While many enthusiasts hoped for the more powerful 2.7-liter V6, the engineers’ choice was deliberate. The lighter four-cylinder engine reduces load on the front axle—crucial for high-speed maneuverability over rough terrain.

That said, the engine has received serious upgrades. One of its key features is an anti-lag system, activated in “Baja” mode. When the driver lifts off the throttle, the system maintains turbo boost pressure, delivering instant response when the accelerator is pressed again. To combat overheating in extreme conditions, the RTR also uses a heavy-duty 1,000-watt cooling fan borrowed from the Bronco Raptor.

Two Suspension Setups, One Off-Road Mission

Buyers will be able to choose between two suspension configurations, both significantly enhancing off-road capability:

Base configuration: A unique high-clearance suspension setup with Bilstein shocks and 33-inch all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch RTR Evo 6 wheels. Track width is increased by about 2 inches (roughly 5 cm) for improved stability.

Sasquatch package: An upgrade to the HOSS 3.0 (High-Speed Off-Road Suspension System) with Fox shocks. Paired with 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Territory tires, this setup transforms the RTR into a high-speed desert runner. A similar system offered through Ford Performance accessories can boost the approach angle to 44.3 degrees and the departure angle to 37 degrees.

Signature RTR Design

The RTR’s styling carries the brand’s unmistakable signature. Bold Hyper Lime accents dominate the grille, hood graphics, wheel rings, and interior details. At the same time, Ford allows customers to order the vehicle with minimal accents—or none at all. The exterior is further distinguished by unique straight-edged fenders inspired by the Bronco Heritage, a redesigned front bumper, and widened wheel arches.

Notably, the body graphics are more than decorative stripes: they depict a topographic map of Johnson Valley, a nod to the birthplace of the Bronco RTR.

Pricing and Availability

Ford will position the Bronco RTR between the Badlands trim and the flagship Bronco Raptor. The expected starting price is slightly below a Badlands equipped with the Sasquatch package, which starts at around $56,500, and well below the Bronco Raptor’s roughly $82,000 price tag.

Order books will open in October this year, with the first vehicles arriving at dealerships in January 2027.