Ford may expand Raptor lineup with Mustang off-road variant
Ford considering Mustang Raptor off-road variant
Ford may expand Raptor lineup with Mustang off-road variant
Ford is eyeing a Mustang Raptor variant, leveraging EPA changes and high demand for off-road models. Could debut by 2026 with AWD and V8 power.
2026-02-15T17:57:16+03:00
2026-02-15T17:57:16+03:00
2026-02-15T17:57:16+03:00
Ford is considering expanding its Raptor lineup, with recent EPA regulation changes potentially paving the way for more ambitious variants. During an earnings call, CEO Jim Farley noted that demand for off-road versions is increasing, and relaxed requirements could allow for more high-performance off-road models. While Mustang wasn't explicitly mentioned, it's logical that it could be the next candidate for an off-road transformation.Industry sources indicate that the current Mustang's design inherently accommodates all-wheel drive, with front hubs featuring splines that suggest AWD capability was planned from the start. Previous reports have mentioned a version with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, an electronic center differential, and increased ground clearance. This architecture could also support an even more extreme Raptor R variant.The strong buyer interest in the Raptor lineup—accounting for over 20% of U.S. sales—makes the project economically viable. Ford aims to strengthen its position in the off-road performance segment, and Mustang remains the only major model without such a version.If predictions hold, 2026 could see the debut of the most unconventional Mustang yet: a Raptor variant that blends muscle car heritage with off-road capability.
Ford is eyeing a Mustang Raptor variant, leveraging EPA changes and high demand for off-road models. Could debut by 2026 with AWD and V8 power.
Michael Powers, Editor
Ford is considering expanding its Raptor lineup, with recent EPA regulation changes potentially paving the way for more ambitious variants. During an earnings call, CEO Jim Farley noted that demand for off-road versions is increasing, and relaxed requirements could allow for more high-performance off-road models. While Mustang wasn't explicitly mentioned, it's logical that it could be the next candidate for an off-road transformation.
Industry sources indicate that the current Mustang's design inherently accommodates all-wheel drive, with front hubs featuring splines that suggest AWD capability was planned from the start. Previous reports have mentioned a version with a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, an electronic center differential, and increased ground clearance. This architecture could also support an even more extreme Raptor R variant.
The strong buyer interest in the Raptor lineup—accounting for over 20% of U.S. sales—makes the project economically viable. Ford aims to strengthen its position in the off-road performance segment, and Mustang remains the only major model without such a version.
If predictions hold, 2026 could see the debut of the most unconventional Mustang yet: a Raptor variant that blends muscle car heritage with off-road capability.
