Ford Motor Company Introduces 2027 Bronco RTR: A Performance Gateway for Off-Road Enthusiasts

Ford Expands Bronco Lineup with the 2027 Bronco RTR: A New Gateway to Performance

Ford Motor Company announces an expansion of its Bronco SUV lineup with the introduction of the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR, marking the eighth model in the Bronco series. This new variant is designed to blend off-road capability with street performance, appealing to both enthusiasts and casual drivers. With aesthetics and performance upgrades reminiscent of the high-performance Raptor, the Bronco RTR aims to provide a more accessible performance option within the lineup. Ed Krenz, the Bronco chief program engineer, emphasizes that the RTR serves as a gateway into the Raptor family, making high-performance features more attainable for a broader audience.

The Bronco RTR features a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 315 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, which is a step down from the Raptor’s robust 3.0-liter V6 engine, boasting 418 horsepower and 440 foot-pounds of torque. Although Ford has yet to reveal the exact pricing, industry analysts speculate that it will fall between $51,475 for the Bronco Heritage Edition and approximately $80,000 for the Raptor. The base model of the Bronco starts around $40,000, suggesting that the RTR will be positioned as a more attainable performance vehicle, potentially attracting a wider range of consumers interested in off-road adventures without a premium price tag.

Orders for the Bronco RTR are set to open in October, with sales commencing in January 2027. This model is developed in collaboration with Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s "Ready to Rock" brand, following the successful launch of a Ford Mustang RTR model last year. Gittin expresses enthusiasm for creating a vehicle that balances performance and accessibility, reinforcing Ford's commitment to its iconic brands, including the Bronco alongside the Mustang and F-150. The Bronco RTR epitomizes Ford’s strategy to innovate while remaining connected to its rich heritage, appealing to both new and loyal customers in the competitive automotive landscape.

In other developments, FordDirect appoints Tracy Noonan Fred as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective January 14, 2026. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Fred's background includes significant roles at major companies such as Toyota and Nissan. Her appointment is expected to enhance FordDirect's operations and strengthen its marketing solutions for Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers.

Additionally, a recent incident involving President Donald Trump during a visit to the Ford River Rouge Plant highlights the political tensions surrounding the automotive industry. An autoworker confronted Trump, leading to a heated exchange captured on video, which underscores the complex relationship between politics and the workplace at such a prominent company as Ford.