Ford kicked off pre–Detroit Auto Show hype by pulling the cover off the all-new 2027 RTR Bronco, a factory-built bruiser designed to bring high-speed desert fun to the masses. Ford and RTR are positioning this rig as the “Affordable Raptor” but after looking at what’s standard, that might be selling it short.
2027 Frd RTR Bronco at the Detroit Auto Show – Photo: Tim Bartz
Performance Built for Sand, Speed & Abuse
Under the hood sits Ford’s proven 2.3L EcoBoost paired with a 10-speed automatic, now sporting RTR-specific tuning and a race-inspired anti-lag system borrowed from trophy trucks. That tuning keeps boost on tap so power hits instantly—perfect for dune climbs and fast fire roads.
Suspension is where this thing flexes:
HAAS 3.0 suspension with FOX internal bypass dampers
Heavy-duty cooling lifted from the Bronco Raptor, including a massive 1,000-watt fan for cooling
It’s not just “Raptor-lite”—it’s Raptor DNA on a budget.
RTR Look & Attitude
Ford didn’t stop at the mechanicals. The RTR Bronco brings a unique, aggressive appearance, including:
The RTR Bronco offers Fox damper and a unique graphics package – Photo: Tim Bartz
Square-cut fenders
Exclusive RTR grille
Topographical map graphics
Bead-lock capable wheels with beauty rings
Standard 35-inch Goodyear tires
It’s instantly recognizable and very “RTR”—bold without going full SEMA.
Where Does It Fit in the Bronco Lineup?
As Bronco trims stack up — Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Badlands, Raptor — the obvious question is where does this thing land?
Ford is positioning the RTR Bronco as a more affordable desert runner, likely slotted between Outer Banks and Badlands in both price and capability. Think:
Cheaper than the Raptor
More dirt-ready than a Badlands
Way more fun than Ford probably intended
When Can You Get One?
Dealer order banks open October 2026, with first deliveries expected January 2027.
Bottom Line:
The 2027 Bronco RTR brings accessible desert performance, legit RTR styling, and real engineering pull-overs from the Raptor. If Ford nails pricing, this might be the most bang-for-your-buck Bronco yet.
Dave Boyd is the founder and lead automotive voice behind All Terrain Nation, an independent media brand covering trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, industry news, and real-world ownership.
Dave’s connection to the automotive world goes well beyond reviewing vehicles. He worked at Nissan’s manufacturing plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, helping build the Nissan Xterra and Frontier. As an enthusiast, he founded XterraNation.org and created WentWindrock, a national gathering that brought Nissan Xterra owners together at Tennessee’s Windrock Park.
In 2015, Dave launched the Nissan Nation Podcast. What began as a show focused on Nissan trucks and SUVs eventually expanded into All Terrain Nation, reflecting his growing coverage of the entire truck and off-road industry.
Over the years, Dave has owned and extensively covered vehicles including multiple Nissan Xterra’s, a Nissan Frontier, Titan PRO-4X, Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch, Mustang GT, Ranger Raptor, and Current ride: Bronco Raptor. This long-term ownership experience allows him to discuss more than specifications and first impressions—he understands what it means to buy, modify, maintain, and live with these vehicles.
Dave has also participated in manufacturer media programs and automotive events, including Nissan, Ford and more. Through All Terrain Nation, he continues to cover new vehicle launches, industry developments, ownership experiences, off-road events, and the decisions affecting today’s truck and SUV buyers.
Based in Middle Tennessee, Dave produces automotive articles, videos, podcasts, and event coverage alongside his partner and ATN co-host, Kelly.
His goal is simple: give enthusiasts honest, informed, and entertaining automotive coverage without relying on manufactured outrage or repeating a manufacturer’s press release.