More Powerful Engine Available on Base and Mid-Level Bronco Trims

Ford is bringing premium performance down to earth with its 2027 Bronco lineup. The automaker has announced that a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, previously exclusive to the high-end Raptor variant, will now be available on several mainstream trim levels. This move puts real performance capabilities within reach for shoppers who want Raptor-level power without paying Raptor prices.

The detuned version of the engine produces 380 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. While this represents a step down from the Raptor’s 418 horsepower, both versions deliver identical torque figures, meaning you’re getting serious pulling power either way. The engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive across all applications.

Which Trims Get the Turbocharged Option

turbocharged engine performance capability
Photo by Tim Mossholder

Ford is offering the twin-turbo V6 option on the Outer Banks, Badlands, Heritage Edition, and the newly announced Filson Edition. The Filson variant, in particular, was designed to showcase this powerplant from day one, but the company’s decision to roll it out to other popular trims significantly expands access to this capability. These mid-level models have traditionally offered buyers a sweet spot between affordability and features, and now they’ll appeal to performance-minded shoppers as well.

Pricing details for the turbocharged option haven’t been released yet, though Ford has confirmed those figures will arrive in the coming weeks. The new RTR edition has been announced at a starting price of $50,790 before destination charges, suggesting the actual entry point will be closer to $53,000. If the turbo upgrade follows typical Ford pricing, it should cost considerably less than jumping to a full Raptor model.

Comfort and Convenience Updates Across the Board

Beyond the engine news, Ford is rolling out several quality-of-life improvements for 2027. The Big Bend trim, which sits just above the base model, now includes a heated steering wheel as part of its Mid package. This feature becomes especially valuable during cold winter months and makes the lower trims more competitive with rivals. Like other SUV models entering the market, such as the redesigned ID. Tiguan which brings fresh door handle designs to compact SUVs, the Bronco is getting careful attention to detail in everyday usability.

The keypad entry system has also been redesigned. Rather than the clunky button arrangement on the driver’s door found on current models, Ford has moved the keypad to a more integrated set of controls on the B-pillar. This subtle change improves both aesthetics and ease of use, making entry and access smoother and more intuitive.

Interior Materials Get More Upscale Options

interior dashboard steering wheel comfort
Photo by Tim Meyer

Ford has expanded its interior material palette significantly. Broncos equipped with the Lux package in Outer Banks trim will now feature premium vinyl seating instead of the previous standard leather. The Badlands trim introduces marine-grade vinyl upholstery, a material choice that signals durability and easy maintenance, particularly appealing to buyers planning serious off-road adventures. For the first time, these seats are available with power adjustments, bringing convenience to a trim level traditionally associated with rugged capability.

The Outer Banks trim also gains Neptune Blue as a new paint color option, replacing the previous Velocity Blue. This refresh gives the lineup a fresh visual identity while providing buyers with more personalization choices.

What This Means for SUV Shoppers

The 2027 Bronco refresh addresses a genuine market frustration: exceptional engines and features locked behind premium pricing. By democratizing the turbocharged V6 option, Ford acknowledges that performance and capability matter to buyers across the price spectrum. Shoppers in the $50,000 to $55,000 range now have a legitimate shot at owning a turbocharged SUV with genuine off-road heritage.

For those comparing options in the midsize SUV segment, the combination of turbo power and enhanced interior materials makes the Bronco compelling. The heated steering wheel, repositioned keypad entry, and upgraded seating all represent functional improvements that daily drivers will appreciate. As electric SUVs like the BMW iX4 add more dual motor options for 2027, traditional gas-powered competitors are stepping up their game with meaningful upgrades to both performance and comfort.

The big question for shoppers is how much Ford will charge for the turbo upgrade. Since the company hasn’t announced pricing yet, it’s worth waiting a few weeks for those details before making a final decision. That said, the fact that this engine is available at all on models below the Raptor tier represents a win for buyers who want genuine performance without premium pricing.