Ford fans looking for a heavy-duty, powerful, yet fun SUV will be excited to hear the rumors of the new Bronco Raptor said to be released for 2021. We know that there are plans for an upcoming “Baby Bronco,” a smaller version of the traditional Bronco model. But now there are talks of an even more capable version of the Bronco called the Bronco Raptor. Here’s what we know about the upcoming potential Bronco options from Ford so far. 

Will the Raptor be included in the Bronco lineup?

There has been no official word from Ford yet, but sources close to development reportedly spoke with The Fast Lane Car recently and spilled the news that Ford will produce a Bronco Raptor. Along with other potential models of the Bronco, the new Raptor is just one of several possible variations of the 2020 or 2021 Ford Bronco. The “Baby Bronco,” a shorthand term used to describe Ford’s small off-road SUV, will likely exist in the Bronco lineup. Theorists expect this smaller version may be called the Bronco Maverick. But fans of the SUVs are hoping for a more powerful option that would be more capable off-road, as well. Prototypes have been spotted on roads across the country, sparking rumors about how the Broncos will look exactly. 

The Ford Bronco may have a removable top

Aimed to compete with the Jeep Wrangler, the new Bronco is rumored to have a removable top option. Perfect for sunny days off-roading. It brings to mind pictures of the old-style Bronco on the beach, with surfboards in the back. We have yet to see how close that image will be to the new Bronco, but if it does actually include a removable top, it will definitely give the SUV a fun, sporty feel. 

How powerful will the engine on the Ford Bronco Raptor be?

It’s expected that the 2021 Bronco will ride on the Ranger’s platform. So while sources have said that there are talks of including a powerful 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine in the new Raptor, according to The Fast Lane Car, it seems unlikely that this would be a standard factory option, dashing the dreams of Raptor hopefuls. Instead, it’s more likely that Bronco will include a 2.7-liter twin-turbo Ecoboost engine. With 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, the 2.7 liter twin-turbo Ecoboost is still a powerful option with plenty of capability. The stronger engine may still be a possibility, especially if Ford decides to go with a different platform for the Raptor base. Unfortunately, it’s speculation at this point. 

Ford Bronco Raptor spotted on the road

Spurring rumors even further, keen eyes spotted a potential prototype of the Bronco Raptor out for a drive. According to Car and Driver, a camouflaged, regular-cab, short-bed truck was seen with the Raptor’s unmistakable wide-body and oversized wheels and tires. While some say that this was only a test bed cobbled together to provide an option for on-road testing of various components, others, like Road & Track, say this is most definitely a sign that Ford is designing a Raptor. 

It’s important to realize that Ford has not confirmed any information about a Raptor. But that doesn’t stop hopeful consumers from speculating what Ford’s plans may be. At this point, the Raptor’s potential is up in the air, with about half thinking it’s likely, and the other half thinking that it’s not something Ford will end up producing. Short of spotting more test runs on our local roads, we’ll have to wait until we have official word from Ford to know for sure.