Ford has poured cold water on speculation surrounding even more extreme versions of its popular off-road trucks. According to Ford Performance chief engineer Carl Widmann, the company has no plans to introduce R-badged versions of the Ranger Raptor or Bronco Raptor. Instead, Ford believes both models already deliver the right balance of power, capability, and everyday usability for enthusiasts.
Ford Has No Plans For R-Badged Variants
During a recent interview, Carl Widmann dismissed the possibility of a Ranger Raptor R or Bronco Raptor R arriving anytime soon. In fact, he stated that there are currently no development plans for either model. As a result, the existing Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor will continue to sit at the top of their respective lineups.
Ranger Raptor Already Delivers Impressive Performance
Interestingly, Ford believes the Ranger Raptor may already be pushing the limits of its segment. Widmann explained that the midsize pickup offers significantly more power than any of its direct competitors. Moreover, he noted that no rival truck comes within 30 HP of the Ranger Raptor’s output.
Because of its compact size and lighter weight, the Ranger Raptor can also make excellent use of its available performance.
Twin-Turbo V6 Remains The Engine Of Choice
Both the Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor currently use a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine. However, the Bronco Raptor produces 418 HP, while the Ranger Raptor develops 405 HP. Despite the slight difference, the lighter pickup delivers impressive acceleration and remains one of the quickest trucks in its class.
Furthermore, Ford has no indication that a larger V8 engine will be offered in either model.
Performance Figures Back Ford’s Decision
Real-world testing supports Ford’s confidence in the current package. The Ranger Raptor can sprint from 0 to 97 KM/H in just 5.3 seconds. Meanwhile, the heavier Bronco Raptor reaches the same speed in 5.6 seconds.
Although these figures trail the mighty F-150 Raptor R, they still place the midsize Raptors among the fastest off-road-focused vehicles available today.
F-150 Raptor R Keeps Its Flagship Status
For now, the F-150 Raptor R remains the undisputed king of Ford’s performance truck family. Powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine, it delivers incredible straight-line performance and a 0 to 97 KM/H time of only 3.6 seconds.
Consequently, Ford appears happy to let the F-150 Raptor R occupy the top spot while the Ranger and Bronco retain their V6-powered identities.
Prices In The Middle East
The Ford Ranger Raptor continues to attract strong demand across the GCC region thanks to its blend of off-road ability and daily practicality. In markets such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, prices typically start from around AED 240,000, depending on local specifications and equipment. Meanwhile, the Bronco Raptor is available in limited numbers in select Middle East markets, with pricing generally exceeding AED 350,000.
Middle East Relevance & Market Outlook
High-performance off-road vehicles remain extremely popular across the Middle East, where desert driving and adventure tourism continue to grow. Therefore, the Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor fit naturally into the region’s automotive landscape. Moreover, many buyers appreciate the balance of power, durability, and advanced suspension technology offered by the current models without the need for an even more extreme R variant.
Conclusion
Ford has made it clear that the Ranger Raptor and Bronco Raptor will not receive more aggressive R-badged versions in the foreseeable future. Instead, the company believes the existing models already offer class-leading performance and capability. With the F-150 Raptor R continuing as the flagship, Ford’s off-road lineup remains one of the strongest and most diverse in the performance truck segment, especially for enthusiasts across the Middle East.
