Rumours of a 2026 Ford Mustang Raptor, a daring creation that combines the iconic muscle of the Mustang with the tough off-road abilities of Ford’s Raptor family, are circulating across the automotive world.
Though the idea of an off-road Mustang might seem far-fetched, multiple sources, including Car and Driver and Autoblog, suggest the unveilling of a concept car is imminent.
Off-road sports cars
Also, considering the release of the rally-ready Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato (R6,63m; pictured above), Porsche 911 Dakar (R4,5m; pictured below), and Ford’s own electric Mustang Mach-E Rally (also pictured below), production of a Mustang Raptor, though potentially challenging, would be on trend.
Coyote V8 engine
The 2026 Mustang Raptor – if it arrives in the near future – is expected to use the the Mustang Dark Horse’s 500-horsepower (373 kW) normally aspirated 5,0-litre Coyote V8, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
This combination would most likely deliver power to all four wheels via an electronic centre differential, a departure from the traditional rear-wheel-drive setup of the Mustang.
What would it look like?
In terms of design, the Mustang Raptor will likely sport a 50 mm lift, achieved through a unique suspension system with long-travel springs and Fox Live Valve dampers, according to media reports.
Skid plates, all-terrain tires, rally-style forward lighting, and extensive fender cladding would further enhance its off-road capabilities and give it an aggressive look.
RaptorRRRR!
There’s also talk of an even more extreme variant, the Mustang Raptor R, which could boast a supercharged 5,2-litre V8 engine producing up to 700 horsepower (522 kW), echoing the performance of the F-150 Raptor R and the Shelby GT500. This would make it one of the most powerful off-road coupes on the market.
Power and weight
For context, the Porsche 911 Dakar’s 3,6-litre six-cylinder puts out a maximum of 353 kW and the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato’s 5,2-litre V10 generates 449 kW. It’s worth noting, however, that a Mustang Raptor would be much heavier than the Porsche or Lambo, possibly by as much as 350 kg.
How much?
The Mustang Raptor is speculated to have a starting price of around $90 000 (R1,7m), with the Raptor R variant potentially exceeding $110,000 (R2m). While this price point places it in a premium segment, it reflects the significant engineering and performance enhancements required.
Though Ford has not officially confirmed these details, the convergence of information from credible sources makes the Mustang Raptor a compelling possibility. If the rumours hold true, the Mustang Raptor, blending high performance with rugged versatility, will make a very enticing proposition.
