Ford just cranked up the Bronco Raptor’s off-road credentials with an official factory lift kit and 37-inch tire package that transforms the already capable desert runner into a genuine rock-crawling monster. The new Performance Package Level 2 pushes the Bronco Raptor into serious off-road territory previously reserved for custom builds.
Factory-Built Beast Gets Even Bigger
The Ford Bronco Raptor factory lift kit adds 2.5 inches of additional ground clearance through Fox Racing Shox with custom valving and increased travel. Combined with the standard Raptor’s already impressive specs, this pushes total ground clearance to a commanding 13.1 inches.
Those massive 37-inch BFGoodrich KO2 All-Terrain tires wrap around beadlock-capable 17-inch wheels, giving the Bronco Raptor a footprint that rivals purpose-built trail rigs. Ford engineers specifically tuned the suspension geometry to handle the larger rolling stock without compromising on-road manners.
Power Meets Capability
The heart remains Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, pumping out 418 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. What’s changed is how that power reaches the ground:
- 4.70:1 final drive ratio optimized for 37-inch tires
- Electronic locking front and rear differentials
- Advanced 4WD system with seven terrain modes
- Rock crawl mode with 1-mph capability
Ford’s Terrain Management System now includes a dedicated “Rock Crawl” mode that maximizes traction control and throttle response for technical sections. The system can maintain forward momentum at walking speed while drivers focus on line selection.
Pricing and Production Reality Check
The Performance Package Level 2 carries a hefty $8,995 premium over the standard Bronco Raptor’s $73,200 starting price. That pushes the fully-equipped package well into $90,000 territory before options, placing it squarely against premium off-road competitors.
Ford plans limited production runs through their Michigan Assembly Plant, with initial deliveries scheduled for Q2 2024. Industry sources suggest Ford will cap production at roughly 2,000 units annually to maintain exclusivity and ensure quality control.
Competition Heats Up
This move directly challenges Jeep’s Wrangler Rubicon 392 and the upcoming Ram 1500 TRX-based alternatives. Unlike aftermarket modifications that void warranties, Ford’s factory approach maintains full coverage and integration with vehicle systems.
The timing couldn’t be better, as off-road vehicle sales continue climbing despite broader market softness. Premium off-road packages now represent some of the highest-margin products for domestic manufacturers.
Real-World Performance Implications
Ford’s testing data shows impressive improvements in key off-road metrics. Approach angle increases to 43.2 degrees, while departure angle reaches 37.0 degrees. Break-over angle hits 26.8 degrees, allowing the Bronco Raptor to tackle obstacles that would stop lesser vehicles.
The larger tire contact patch and increased sidewall flex dramatically improve traction on loose surfaces. Ford claims 25% better performance in sand and loose rock compared to standard Raptor configuration.
However, the modifications do impact on-road dynamics. Fuel economy drops by approximately 2 mpg combined, and highway noise levels increase noticeably above 65 mph due to the aggressive tread pattern.
Looking Ahead
This factory lift package signals Ford’s commitment to dominating the premium off-road segment as competitors scramble to match the Raptor’s capabilities. With Chevrolet reportedly developing a Colorado-based trail runner and Ram expanding their Power Wagon lineup, the off-road arms race shows no signs of slowing.
The success of this package will likely influence Ford’s approach to future Bronco variants, potentially including more extreme factory options that blur the line between production vehicles and purpose-built trail rigs.
