The automotive world is witnessing a curious trend: iconic sports cars are venturing off the beaten path. From Porsche reimagining the 911 as the dirt-slinging Dakar to Lamborghini prepping the Huracán Sterrato for off-road escapades, it seems no terrain is off-limits. Now, adding to this unexpected craze, whispers from within Ford’s Dearborn headquarters suggest a thrilling new addition to the lineup – the Off Road Mustang Raptor.
Initially reported in Car and Driver, the idea of a trail-ready Mustang might sound like an April Fool’s joke, but sources indicate this is becoming a reality. Ford’s “Raptorize everything” mantra, already evident in the F-150 Raptor, Bronco Raptor, and upcoming Ranger Raptor, appears to be extending its reach to the Mustang. While an off-road Mustang might seem unconventional, the groundwork may have been laid years ago, hinted at by the presence of splined front hubs in the sixth-generation Mustang – initially speculated for all-wheel-drive acceleration, now potentially for conquering rally circuits.
Under the hood of the Mustang Raptor, enthusiasts can anticipate a familiar powerhouse: a nearly 500-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 engine, a dream for Bronco aficionados. While a manual transmission won’t be offered, a 10-speed automatic transmission will efficiently manage torque distribution to all four wheels via an electronically controlled center differential. For those craving even more power, a Mustang Raptor R variant is rumored to follow, boasting a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 pushing beyond 700 horsepower.
Staying true to the Raptor lineage, the off road Mustang is expected to incorporate Fox Live Valve dampers to handle rough landings, suggesting genuine off-road capability. Bespoke suspension components and extended springs will contribute to a 2.0-inch lift, enhancing ground clearance. Essential underbody bash plates will safeguard critical components from damage, and all-terrain tires, nestled within protective fender cladding, will complete the rugged transformation.
As the seventh-generation Mustang prepares to hit dealerships, the Mustang Raptor variant is projected to arrive in 2026. While pricing is expected to be premium, aligning with the Raptor brand, it’s anticipated to be considerably more accessible than high-end off-road sports cars like a lifted Lamborghini, with a starting price around $90,000. This off-road Mustang promises a unique blend of American muscle and all-terrain capability, marking an exciting, if unexpected, chapter in the Mustang legacy. It seems Ford is ready to let the pony car roam free, far beyond the paved roads.
