Rumors about arriving 2021 Ford Bronco Raptor are present once again. This off-road variant makes perfect sense because Bronco will directly compete with Jeep Wrangler. Two models will offer everything from strong performances to amazing off-road abilities. Of course, the Raptor version will take on the Jeep’s Rubicon trim level. We can expect high-performance models with additional equipment and more standard features.
Moreover, the aggressive look is a must for the new Bronco Raptor. However, the main question is the powertrain options. According to the latest reports, Bronco Raptor will arrive with Ford’s new V8 gasoline that should also power the F-150 Raptor pickup. If this rumor really transforms into reality, Bronco will beat Wrangler with ease.
2021 Bronco Raptor to Borrow Engine From F-150 Raptor?
The all-new 2021 Ford Bronco Raptor will reportedly ride on the company’s new V8 gasoline. According to the latest reports, Ford F-150 will get the same engine in its Raptor variant. The regular model is using a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost with 450 hp at the moment. The same reports are saying that the Blue Oval is currently testing this powertrain option. Moreover, Bronco Raptor could get the very same displacement. So far, we don’t know much about this output. Everything is still in a testing phase but the V8 engine will surely help F-150 Raptor to rival Ram Rebel TRX pickup. Rebel model uses a Hellcat V8 that generates 700 horsepower.
If Ford wants to match those figures, the only choice is a 5.2-liter V8 from Mustang Shelby GT500. This engine is also producing over 700 horsepower. Another and less likely possibility is a 7.3-liter V8. This engine is relatively new and it is available in the Ford’s Super Duty lineup. Blue Oval promises the best-in-class figures for a gasoline powertrain. Still, this is an unlikely outcome because 7.3-liter V8 is just too big for SUV such as Bronco.
Rivaling Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
The upcoming 2021 Ford Bronco Raptor has Wrangler Rubicon SUV in its crosshair. It will be a great rivalry between Jeep and Ford, no doubt about it. And while Wrangler comes with the tradition and reliability, Bronco Raptor is the new kid on the block. Bronco Raptor will gain tougher flared fenders over the base model. Moreover, Blue Oval will deliver raised suspension and new off-road tires wrapped around 17-inch wheels.
Bronco Raptor will borrow a lot of cues from the F-150 Raptor pickup. On the other hand, Wrangler Rubicon is a true off-road rock crawler. However, we won’t know if the Ford Bronco Raptor is a true competitor to the Wrangler Rubicon until it arrives.
2021 Ford Bronco Raptor Release Date and Price
Revived Bronco SUV was supposed to make a debut this April. However, its debut has been rescheduled due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus. Rumored 2021 Ford Bronco Raptor will surely cost between $45,000 and $50,000. However, the question is if this model is really going to happen. In our honest opinion, it isn’t the most likely outcome at this moment.