The latest trend in performance cars is the addition of an off-road version. As proof, over the past year, Porsche has launched the 911 Dakar, and Lamborghini has added the Huracán Sterrato to its lineup. And let’s not forget Morgan, which landed with the charismatic Plus Four CX-T, in 2021. Would Ford also want to enter this new segment with the Mustang? The American media Car & Driver think so!
In reality, if Ford hasn’t said anything yet about a potential release Raptors of the Mustang, Because & Driver, meanwhile, seems pretty sure the Dearborn giant is designing one. The media in question recently wrote a complete text about it with a rather impressive degree of detail.
“Raptorize” everything
We understand Ford’s desire to expand its Raptor range. After all, this line has proven extremely lucrative since it was introduced to us on the F-150 pickup truck in 2010. And seeing the popularity of off-road-focused performance cars, the idea of a Mustang Raptor is not that crazy. It could become a real commercial success, especially in North America.
So what could we expect? First, if a Mustang Raptor is really in the plans, it wouldn’t show up until the 2026 model year, at the very least. Ford must first introduce the 2024 Mustang, which is expected to go on sale this fall. Then would come all its variations, including the Dark Horse, which will act as a high-performance version of the famous pony car.
The Heart of a Dark Horse
Rumor has it that this mountain Mustang is powered by the same 5-litre V8 as the Dark Horse; this engine develops a power of at least 500 horsepower. A 10-speed automatic transmission will manage the power sent to the 4 wheels via an electronically controlled center differential.
Everything suggests that Fox brand shock absorbers, beefier and capable of withstanding jumps, will also be present, while the Mustang’s entire structure will be reinforced to allow the car to better withstand off-road driving.
Finally, as is tradition for these kinds of vehicles, skid plates, plastic fender surrounds and model-specific off-road tires will also be part of the Raptor treatment. An even faster Mustang Raptor R would even be possible.
The price of a Bronco Raptor?
Now, how much will we have to pay to become the owner of such a creation? If the F-150 and Bronco Raptor are anything to go by, the price will be high, most likely well over $100,000. Ford might even build it in very limited quantities, thereby increasing demand and exploding its market value.
Of course, everything you have just read is still speculation. Ford mentions absolutely nothing about a Mustang Raptor. We will therefore continue to follow this rumor closely and will get back to you with more details as they become available.
