Ford Bronco Raptor: The Ultimate Off-Road Beast That Dominates Everywhere

In the world of high-performance off-road vehicles, the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor stands tall as an absolute powerhouse. This isn’t just another SUV—it’s a statement of American engineering prowess that blends raw capability with surprising on-road refinement. Let’s dive deep into what makes this beast tick.

Design and Presence

The moment you lay eyes on the Bronco Raptor, you know it means business. Those three amber lights in the grille aren’t just for show—they’re a legal requirement for vehicles of this width. At approximately 10 inches wider than the standard Bronco, this SUV practically commands its own lane on the highway. The 37-inch BF Goodrich K02 all-terrain tires wrapped around 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels give it an imposing stance that turns heads wherever it goes.

Performance That Thrills

Under the hood lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. While it may not match the F-150 Raptor’s 450 horsepower, the power delivery is more than adequate for both on-road acceleration and off-road adventures. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts seamlessly, ensuring you’re always in the right gear for the situation.

The standard multimode exhaust system adds to the experience, especially in Baja mode. Yes, the dashboard warns it’s “for off-road use only,” but let’s be honest—that aggressive exhaust note is part of the appeal.

Fuel Economy: The Price of Power

Here’s where reality hits: the EPA rates the Bronco Raptor at 15 mpg city and 16 mpg highway. If you enjoy using more than 10% of the throttle (and who wouldn’t?), expect those numbers to drop. This is a vehicle built for performance first, efficiency second.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Despite its rugged exterior, the Bronco Raptor offers a surprisingly comfortable interior. Standard marine-grade vinyl seats are durable and practical, while optional leather-trimmed seats ($2,495) add a touch of luxury. The $2,695 Lux Package brings heated seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, adaptive cruise control, and embedded navigation.

The massive 12-inch center display runs Ford’s Sync 4 system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Both rows get USB-A and USB-C ports, ensuring everyone stays connected. The removable hardtop panels are surprisingly lightweight and easy to remove, transforming the Raptor from an enclosed SUV to an open-air adventure machine in minutes.

Off-Road Capability That’s Unmatched

This is where the Bronco Raptor truly shines. With 13.1 inches of ground clearance, a 47.2-degree approach angle, and 40.5-degree departure angle, this SUV can tackle terrain that would stop most vehicles dead in their tracks. The Fox live-valve shocks offer over a foot of travel, while the front sway bar disconnect and locking differentials ensure maximum traction in challenging conditions.

The two-range transfer case with a 67.9:1 crawl ratio means you can crawl over rocks and through mud with confidence. Whether you’re hitting the trails or just want the peace of mind that comes with extreme capability, the Bronco Raptor delivers.

Towing and Utility

The Bronco Raptor can tow up to 4,500 pounds, which is impressive for an off-road-focused SUV. However, the payload rating of 1,100 pounds is slightly lower than standard Broncos. But let’s be real—if you’re buying a Raptor, you’re probably more interested in adventure than hauling capacity.

Price and Value

Starting at $70,095 (including $1,595 destination), the Bronco Raptor isn’t cheap. Our fully loaded tester with all the bells and whistles came in at $80,190. That’s a significant investment, but when compared to the Jeep Wrangler 392 (which starts closer to $90,000), the Raptor offers better on-road manners and a more modern design.

The Verdict

The 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor is a vehicle that defies easy categorization. It’s equally at home on the highway and on the trail. It offers luxury features alongside hardcore off-road capability. It’s loud and proud, yet surprisingly refined when needed.

If you want a vehicle that can do it all—and do it all exceptionally well—the Bronco Raptor deserves a serious look. It’s not just an SUV; it’s a statement. It’s American engineering at its finest. And most importantly, it’s just plain fun to drive.

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