If you've ever done off-road driving, especially here in Canada, you know like me that everything happens between 0 and 15 km/h. Performance boils down to the quality of the suspension and the traction of the vehicle you're driving. However, since it's 2024 and most Bronco buyers will never set foot on a dirt road, and numbers rule supreme, the American manufacturer decided it was time for the Bronco to offer a Raptor variant. In other words, it's an excellent marketing move because buyers have jumped on the Bronco Raptor as if it were the last iPhone in the universe.
The Raptor division has built a solid reputation through the F-150, which is why Ford started extending this product line to other models. Besides the F-150, there's also a Ranger Raptor at Ford, and some rumors even mention a Super Duty Raptor. Since the improvements accompanying the Raptor models focus on off-road driving, it made perfect sense for Ford to apply this formula to the popular Bronco. This variant of the American SUV is not for everyone, as its mechanics and driving style are very aggressive. However, it's the kind of full-size toy that can perfectly deliver emotions you won't find elsewhere, and I think that explains its great popularity.
Range and Price
While the regular Bronco starts at just over $47,000, the bill is slightly higher for the Bronco Raptor, which starts at $116,570. Interestingly, it is also one of the only three Bronco Raptor versions that is offered exclusively with four doors. The Bronco Raptor offers very comprehensive standard equipment, but as is often the case with this type of vehicle, several options are available, some of which are very expensive. Certain decor packages can raise the price by $4,000 to $6,000.
Category and Competition
The Ford Bronco Raptor has only one real rival in the automotive industry, and that's the Jeep Wrangler 392. The latter opted for a different strategy with its 6.4-liter V8, but the performances of the Wrangler and the Bronco Raptor remain very similar. They are the two ultimate off-road SUVs, and the competition is very fierce between them. However, in my opinion, most buyers who opt for one or the other won't do so based on what's under the hood. Let's say it's the kind of vehicle for which people have a deep passion, no matter what.
Rivals: Jeep Wrangler 392
Design and Technology
The Raptor version is quite easy to distinguish from other Broncos thanks to its wide body, air intakes on the fenders and hood, and all the other elements that make its look so aggressive. In short, it's the kind of vehicle that doesn't go unnoticed even with camouflage.
The interior of the Bronco Raptor has a slightly different finish from other Broncos, making it even more special. The seats also offer a lot of support, which is very appreciated in off-road driving situations. However, they remain comfortable for long hours on the highway. There is also one thing I particularly like about the Bronco compared to the Wrangler regarding the interior, and that's the space. You feel much less cramped in the Bronco, which is a significant advantage for the American manufacturer's SUV.
As for technology, the American manufacturer's SUV lacks nothing. Its infotainment system is among the best on the market. The driver assistance technologies are very impressive, particularly those that enhance the off-road experience.
Performance
The Raptor version is by far the most powerful and high-performing in the Bronco family. It features a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that boasts 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. All of this is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 4x4 system is standard, unsurprisingly. The Ford Bronco Raptor can go from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 6.5 seconds, which is very fast for a vehicle of this size. However, there is a price to pay for all this power, which is why the Bronco Raptor is one of the most fuel-consuming vehicles in its category, with an average consumption of 15.7 L/100 km in the city and 14.8 L/100 km on the highway.
Weak Points
Even though the 3.0-liter V6 is very efficient, we would have liked to see a V8 under the hood of the Bronco Raptor. It's far from fitting all budgets. Its average fuel consumption is almost ridiculous.
Strong Points
It's an exclusive model that turns heads wherever it goes and is very
enjoyable to drive. Its performance can make you smile.
Signature Element
An aggressive style, a powerful engine, removable roof and doors in a few minutes, do I really need to say more?
Final Word
The Ford Bronco Raptor is the kind of vehicle that doesn't necessarily meet a need. You buy it because you want it. It's a model for enthusiasts who want to experience strong emotions.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
