Ford is positioning itself to make a bold move in the off-road performance market. While the Raptor series has already cemented its reputation for off-road prowess, the automaker is now exploring the creation of an entirely new type of off-road supercar. There are even rumors suggesting that the vehicle may feature an independent platform, setting it apart from existing models.
As Ford develops this new off-road supercar concept, the spotlight has again turned to the Mustang Raptor, a model first mentioned in 2023 and planned for release in 2026. With just a year left until the target release date, there’s growing speculation about whether the Mustang Raptor will still be part of Ford’s off-road supercar plans.
Ford’s Vision for an Off-Road Supercar
In a recent interview with Top Gear, Ford CEO Jim Farley revealed that the company is still in the exploratory phase regarding an off-road supercar. He stated, “We’re in the middle of creating something, so we don’t have all the answers yet, but the question is, should Ford make an off-road supercar? Not a version of a car, but a standalone supercar.” Farley elaborated, explaining that they are currently trying to answer key questions about their product strategy, such as what the future should hold for their utility vehicles and whether creating a supercar is feasible.
What’s particularly interesting is that Ford is seriously considering adding off-road capability to its supercar lineup, a category it has not explored so far. If this new model comes to life, Ford will directly compete with high-end off-road supercars from brands like Porsche and Lamborghini, such as the Porsche 911 Dakar and Lamborghini Huracan Sterato.
Mustang Platform or Something New?
It’s unclear what form Ford’s envisioned off-road supercar will take. Still, industry insiders are speculating whether it will utilize the Mustang platform or develop an entirely new supercar platform. If it’s Mustang-based, it could be an off-road version inspired by the existing Mustang Dark Horse R or Mustang GTD.
Of course, Ford could also develop an off-road-specific platform. This platform could be completely different from existing off-road models, such as the F-150 Raptor or the Bronco Raptor, and it could reflect the technology that Ford has accumulated through its long-term participation in the Dakar Rally. If an independent platform is applied, it will likely be the most powerful off-road-capable model in Ford’s history.
The Raptor Connection—and the GT Factor
According to industry sources, Ford’s new off-road supercar will likely utilize the Raptor brand. Mark Rushbrook, the global director of Ford Performance, indicated that while they already have the F-150, Bronco, and Ranger Raptor, there is potential for more. He mentioned they are working on a new project influenced by their experience at the Dakar Rally. If confirmed, this development would add credibility to the speculation about a Mustang Raptor that was mentioned in 2023.
However, Ford’s iconic GT supercar line also remains a major player in the performance vehicle market. If Ford were to expand the GT lineup, it could lead to an off-road version of the GT instead of a Raptor-branded model. Though it remains unclear which direction Ford will ultimately take, the growing buzz around a new off-road performance icon suggests something exciting is on the horizon.
