2023 Ford Bronco Raptor Spied Testing For The Very First Time
We’ve known for some time that there will be a 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor, but this fact was recently confirmed, albeit unofficially, via a Blue Oval engineer’s online job description. Then, just yesterday, Ford Authority exclusively reported several key details about the off-road focused version of the already off-road focused Ford Bronco. Now, our spies have captured the very first 2023 Ford Bronco Raptor development prototype as it was out testing on the road.
This particular prototype looks completely fresh, as if it was just built. It’s also covered in heavy, thick camouflage that flanks most of the vehicle, but it can only disguise so much about the Bronco Raptor.
One thing that clearly sticks out are its wider fender flares, which cover a set of BFGoodrich AT All-Terrain T/A tires, though it’s unclear what size they might be. The wheels on the prototype were taken directly from the current-gen Ford F-150 Raptor, and are non-beadlock capable, unlike the ones that will come on Sasquatch Package-equipped Broncos.
This development prototype is clearly wider than any 2021 Ford Bronco variant, with a significantly higher ground clearance, giving it a more aggressive stance. It’s not clear what suspension upgrades are in place, but the Bronco Raptor is definitely expected to feature a more robust, more capable chassis, even compared to the range-topping Bronco model – the Wildtrak.
The 2023 Bronco Raptor is expected to come with Ford’s 3.0L EcoBoost V6 under the hood, which will be mated to its 10-speed automatic transmission. No manual transmission option is currently planned. A hybrid model could be offered later in the model’s lifecycle.
The Bronco Raptor will be offered in both two- and four-door configurations, and will wear a host of unique exterior styling touches. They include revised front and rear fascias, unique bumpers, wide fenders, and a single-exit, dual-tip exhaust located on the driver’s side, as seen on this prototype. Unique headlights and taillights are also a possibility.
SOURCE: FORD AUTHORITY