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We finally have the pricing and spec details for the highly anticipated Bronco RTR. We’re getting two different variations of this off-road beast, and as someone who spends plenty of time out on the trails, I have some strong thoughts on how Ford and RTR have put this together. Let’s break down exactly what you get for the money so you’re ready when the order banks open up. The Main Event: Base RTR vs. Sasquatch RTR For 2027, the Bronco RTR is coming in two distinct packages. Here is how they stack up on paper and at the cash register: Feature / Spec Base RTR Sasquatch with RTR Suspension Starting MSRP ~$50,000+ (before destination) ~$60,000 (before destination) Suspension System Wide-track HOSS 1.0 + Lift HOSS 3.0 Fox Internal Bypass Dampers Tires & Wheels 33-inch tires / 17-inch beadlock-capable 35-inch aggressive off-road tires Engine / Tuning 2.3L calibration w/ anti-lag & upgraded cooling 2.3L calibration w/ anti-lag & upgraded cooling Exterior Highlights Squared fender flares, RTR lighting & graphics Heavy-duty modular front bumper, RTR graphics Interior & Accents Optional Hyperlime graphics packages Standard Hyperlime interior accents The Base RTR: This setup is going to start right over the $50,000 mark (MSRP before destination). For that price, you're getting a unique wide-track HOSS 1.0 suspension that combines a suspension lift with 33-inch tires. Under the hood, it features the 2.3L calibration with anti-lag and upgraded engine cooling. Visually, it stands out with 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, squared-off fender flares, signature RTR lighting, and RTR spec design elements. You can also option it with the exclusive Hyperlime appearance and graphics packages. The Sasquatch with RTR Suspension: If you want to go all-out, this package will run you just under $60,000 before destination. It adds serious off-road goodies, including 35-inch tires, a Ford Racing heavy-duty modular front bumper, and the coveted HOSS 3.0 Fox internal bypass dampers. This price point also includes those aggressive exterior graphics and the Hyperlime interior accents right out of the gate. Deep Dive: Suspension Mysteries and Missing Lockers Now, let’s get into the weeds, because there are a few things about this spec sheet that have me scratching my head. First, the base RTR information doesn't explicitly mention a rear locker. As an off-roader who has tackled difficult trails like Top of the World out in Utah, a rear locker is essential to me. While the RTR is heavily inspired by desert running—where you might not need a locker to blast through the dunes—it's a crucial piece of equipment if you get bogged down in deep ruts. I really hope Ford clarifies this, because a standard off-road package bearing the RTR name absolutely needs a rear locker. Second, let's talk about the Sasquatch RTR package featuring the HOSS 3.0 dampers. With Ford officially calling this the "RTR Suspension package," I'm making a prediction: I think the HOSS 3.0 is going to be taken away from the standard Badlands trim for 2027. If the HOSS 3.0 becomes exclusive to the RTR or Raptor trims, that’s going to dramatically shift how we build and price out our Badlands orders. Let's hope I'm wrong, but that's my gut feeling right now. Customer Focus: What Does This Mean for Your Order? So, where does the RTR sit in the overall Bronco lineup? Based on the numbers, I expect the base RTR to slide in just under a standard Badlands build (which currently runs around $50,550 with an automatic transmission). However, the Sasquatch RTR at $60,000 is going to come in higher than a Badlands Sasquatch equipped with the HOSS 3.0 upgrade. You’ll have to decide if the exclusive RTR appearance, Hyperlime accents, and unique RTR engine tuning are worth the premium over a similarly equipped Badlands. For die-hard RTR fans, the aggressive styling and anti-lag calibration might make it an absolute no-brainer. Conclusion & Call to Action We are going to find out exactly how these configurations look on the system very soon, because the 2027 Bronco order banks are scheduled to open up on October 13th! If you want to be one of the first in line to get an RTR order submitted, reach out to our team at Long McArthur Ford. We’re ready to help you build the exact off-road rig you’ve been dreaming of. Are you going with the Base RTR or stepping up to the Sasquatch? And what are your thoughts on the rear locker situation? Let us know!

By Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy Tim Bartz and Sarah Davis sat down with a very special guest: Tony Cavalli, the co-founder and CEO of Raptor Nation. For anyone driving a Ford Raptor—or dreaming of getting behind the wheel of one—this interview was packed with insights on community, off-roading, and the exciting world of aftermarket custom builds. Here is what you need to know about joining the ultimate Raptor pack. What is Raptor Nation? Simply put, Raptor Nation is a community built by Raptor owners for Raptor owners. Whether you drive an F-150 Raptor, a Bronco Raptor, a Ranger Raptor, or the powerhouse Raptor R, this organization exists to bring enthusiasts together. Tony and his co-founder Tyson started Raptor Nation after realizing that while Raptor owners were incredibly passionate, the community was scattered across the country. They wanted to create a centralized hub where owners could easily find reliable information, trusted aftermarket parts, and local clubs. The Four Pillars of the Pack Raptor Nation operates on four foundational pillars to ensure every member gets the most out of their vehicle and their community: Educating: Helping owners learn more about their vehicles' capabilities and the latest aftermarket products so they can walk away stronger and more informed. Connecting: Bringing people together, whether through linking individuals to local off-road clubs or organizing national convoys. Celebrating: Providing a platform for owners to share their milestones. Buying a Raptor is a dream come true for many, and the community loves to celebrate those moments. Strengthening: A newly added pillar focused on fortifying the off-road community as a whole, bringing unity to the "power of the pack." The Perks of Premium Membership During the interview, Tony shared a staggering statistic: 80% of Raptor owners modify their vehicles. Knowing this, Raptor Nation offers a Premium Membership for just $50 a year. This membership pays for itself quickly, offering incredible perks like: Discounts on aftermarket parts, gear, and apparel from partnered vendors. Early access to high-demand, cutting-edge products (like 3D-printed suspension parts and bump stops). Exclusive access and ticketing opportunities for events, such as NASCAR VIP experiences and the highly anticipated Raptor Rally in Lake Havasu. Consultative services for planning your ultimate vehicle build. Join the Pack As the off-roading calendar heats up with events like the Raptor Rally and the Rebelle Rally, there has never been a better time to get involved. You can find out more about Tony and the community by visiting RaptorNation.com and following them on social media. And if you are looking to start your own off-road journey, check out Long McArthur Ford's inventory of custom-built, trail-ready trucks and SUVs! Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.

By Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy For Episode 256, I had the privilege of sitting down with Tony Cavalli, the CEO and owner of Ford Raptor Nation, to talk about an event that is going to absolutely shake the desert this fall. We’re talking about the 3rd Annual Ford Raptor Rally in Lake Havasu, Arizona, happening October 16–17. But this year, it’s not just about the destination—it’s about the journey. Tony and the Raptor Nation team are launching the Road to Raptor Rally, and let me tell you, you are going to want to be a part of this. What is the "Road to Raptor Rally"? This isn't just a standard meetup. The Road to Raptor Rally is a nationwide, community-driven push to Lake Havasu built around one massive goal: 100 Raptors rolling into the rally together. We are talking about multiple regions and multiple convoys all converging on a single destination. Whether this is going to be your very first Raptor Rally or you’ve been out in the dirt with us before, this is your chance to be part of the largest community-driven journey to the event yet. Tony and his team are actively building out: Regional convoy routes (Shoutout to the New Mexico Raptor Run crew who are already getting their route locked in!) Strategic meetup points and fuel/rest stops along the way. Exclusive content opportunities to show off your build. Giveaways and massive community experiences leading right up to the rally weekend. Why Raptor Nation is More Than Just a Group One of the best parts about having Tony on the stream was hearing his vision for what Raptor Nation stands for. If you own a Ford Raptor, you know it's a lifestyle. But Raptor Nation takes it a step further. As Tony said on the stream, this isn't just another group—it's a movement. Their mission is simple: Uplift your fellow Raptor owners. Share your adventures, knowledge, and hard-earned lessons. Help light the way for those just starting their off-road journey. There are no egos, no politics, and no judgment here. Just a passionate team of off-road enthusiasts committed to separating Raptor fact from fiction. Whether you’re Baja battle-hardened or just picked up your first Gen 3, when you ride with this convoy, you are part of the pack. How to Join the Convoy to Lake Havasu Are you ready to battle against normality and ride with the only place where all Raptors stand united? Here’s your game plan for October 16th and 17th: Get Your Crew Ready: Start reaching out to your local Raptor buddies. Find Your Regional Convoy: Check out Raptor Nation’s channels to find the convoy route closest to you. If you're in the Southwest, check out groups like the New Mexico Raptor Run to get on the roster. Prep Your Rig: Make sure your truck is dialed in. (And hey, if you need parts, accessories, or a whole new Raptor, you already know to check our inventory right here at Long McArthur!) Let's Ride! I couldn't be more pumped for what Tony and the Raptor Nation crew are putting together. If you want to hear our full deep dive into the upcoming rally, be sure to head over to our YouTube channel and catch the replay of Episode 256. Looking to order your next Ford Raptor, Bronco, or F-150? Long McArthur Ford offers nationwide shipping and an incredibly smooth ordering process. Check out our website to see what's on the lot today! Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.

By Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy If you’ve been waiting to order a new Ford Bronco, we recently got some incredible insights from our latest dealership wholesale call. Ford gave us a peek behind the curtain regarding scheduling, and there are some massive changes coming down the pipeline for the upcoming 2027 model year. Let's dive into exactly what you need to know before you build your next rig. Mark Your Calendars: 2027 Order Banks Open Soon The question on everyone's mind is always, "When can I actually place my order?" According to the latest notes, Ford is tentatively planning to open the order banks for the 2027 Ford Bronco on October 13th. Ford also mentioned opening the Ranger and Mustang order banks on that exact same day. Historically, managing that many order banks on a single day is difficult for the system, so they may space them out—but for now, keep your eyes on mid-October. Say Goodbye to These Two Colors One of the biggest clues we get about what's changing for a new model year is when certain paint options "balance out" early. For December production, Ford is balancing out two notable colors: Velocity Blue and the Raptor-exclusive Shelter Green. When a color isn't available for the final month of the current model year's production, it is almost always a guarantee that it's being discontinued for the following year. If you've been dreaming of a Velocity Blue build, your window is closing fast. A Powertrain Shakeup: Is the 2.7L Engine Done? This is where things get really interesting. Ford has advised dealers to shift Outer Banks orders away from the 2.7L engine and toward the 2.3L engine to get them scheduled faster due to constraints. Even more telling, Ford told us to focus on the 2.3L engine for the Badlands with the Wildtrak package. If you remember the original Bronco launch, you had to have the 2.7L engine to get the Wildtrak package. The fact that the 2.3L is now an option there signals a huge shift. My prediction? The 2.7L EcoBoost is likely going away entirely for 2027, and we are going to see the 3.0L engine step in as the replacement. We saw Ford make this exact same engine swap with the F-150 lineup, and the writing seems to be on the wall for the Bronco. An Insider Ordering Strategy So, what should you do if you're on the fence? Do you lock in a late 2026 build to guarantee you get what you want, or do you wait to see the official 2027 specs? Here is a little trick: do both. Go ahead and place your 2026 order right now. Ford won't actually start scheduling those late December production dates until the week the new order banks open. Once the 2027 order guide officially drops on October 13th, you can review the new changes. If you don't like the new lineup, your 2026 order is safely in the system (assuming your dealer has the allocation). If you decide the 2027 upgrades are worth it, you can simply cancel the '26 order and place a new one. For a brief window, both order banks will be open, giving you the ultimate flexibility. We’ll keep bringing you the updates as soon as they drop, so keep checking back. Stay positive, be kind to one another, and we'll catch you in the next update! Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.

By Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy As a Ford owner or enthusiast, staying on top of the latest software drops, accessory packages, and pricing shifts is crucial to getting the most out of your vehicle. From highly anticipated F-150 towing capabilities to new custom F-150 stripe packages, there is plenty of news coming out of Dearborn this month. Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the latest dealer news and insider information to keep you up to speed. 🛻 F-150 Gets Hands-Free BlueCruise Towing For truck owners who regularly haul, the highway experience is getting a massive upgrade: Hands-free towing is now available for BlueCruise on the F-150. If you plan to utilize this feature, here are the essential guidelines: Towing Capacity: Standard BlueCruise with towing supports trailer weights up to 5,000 lbs. If your F-150 is equipped with the Tow/Haul package and the Max Tow axle, that capacity doubles to 10,000 lbs (or your maximum vehicle towing capacity, whichever is less). Trailer Profiles: To engage BlueCruise while towing, you must first create a unique trailer profile in your vehicle's system. It is designed for conventional trailers and features smart sensors that will automatically disengage if it detects the trailer is too large, improperly loaded, or begins to sway. Manual Lane Changes: For safety, hands-free lane changes and automatic in-lane repositioning are disabled when a trailer is connected. All lane changes will need to be executed manually. Note: BlueCruise hardware is available on the F-150 XLT 302A equipment group and above. 🎨 Ford Custom Garage: Premium Two-Tone Packages The aftermarket and custom build scene has always been a massive part of truck culture, and Ford is officially leaning into it with their new Ford Custom Garage packages. Right now, the spotlight is on a striking painted two-tone stripe package for the F-150. Owners can choose between a white, gray, or black stripe depending on their truck's base color. To qualify for this package, the F-150 must be a SuperCrew with the 5.5-foot box in either the XLT or Lariat trim, and it requires the Chrome package. Instead of a standard vinyl wrap, this is a premium painted finish executed by Penske, bringing the package cost to roughly $12,000. It is a bold aesthetic choice for buyers who want a custom-shop look straight from the dealership. 💵 Navigating F-150 Price Increases & Price Protection Finally, navigating vehicle pricing requires attention to detail, especially when mid-year adjustments occur. Ford recently implemented a minor base price increase across all F-150 trim levels, bumping costs up by $320 to $330. While it is a relatively small jump, buyers who already have an F-150 on order need to be aware of a crucial dealer tip: price protection. Anything ordered prior to this price hike should be price-protected to the MSRP listed when you initially ordered the vehicle. When your truck arrives at the lot and the dealership pulls your available incentives, verify that they are using your protect date. The Strategy: Always compare the numbers. If the current factory rebates are actually better now than they were when you placed your order, you might be better off accepting the new $320 base price increase if it unlocks significantly larger current rebates. Always calculate the sale date incentives versus the protect date incentives to maximize your savings. Staying informed on these factory updates and pricing strategies ensures you are maximizing both your vehicle's capabilities and your budget. As always, navigate the road ahead with confidence, stay positive, be kind to one another, and enjoy the drive. Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.

By Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy For Ford Maverick enthusiasts, the pursuit of enhanced street performance and an aggressive stance has led directly to the highly anticipated SV300T package. After months of speculation regarding exactly what it takes to turn a standard Maverick into a track-inspired powerhouse, the official specifications and pricing have finally been released. As central Kansas’s premier source for Ford news, Long McArthur Ford in Salina is breaking down exactly what this package includes, which models qualify, and the true cost of the upgrade. Compatibility: Who Can Build an SV300T? The SV300T is not a one-size-fits-all upgrade. Because the Air Design body components are specifically molded to the updated styling, this package is exclusively compatible with 2025 or newer Ford Mavericks. Furthermore, the foundation of your build matters. To equip the SV300T package on an incoming 2027 order, you must start with one of the following configurations: XLT EcoBoost All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Lobo (AWD) Note: This kit is not compatible with front-wheel drive or Hybrid powertrains. While the 2027 XLT AWD comes standard with the FX4 off-road package, buyers should strongly consider adding the optional 4K Tow Package. Doing so equips the truck with upgraded cooling fans, which perfectly complement the heavy-duty intercooler included in the SV300T kit. The Hardware: Performance and Aesthetics The SV300T is a comprehensive overhaul designed to optimize both handling and curb appeal. Performance Upgrades Suspension: Maverick Lobo-spec lowering springs, performance shock system, stabilizer bar, and upgraded bushings. Powertrain: A high-capacity intercooler and a specialized turbo upgrade kit complete with custom calibration. Exhaust: A black-finished 2.0L Sport Borla exhaust system for an aggressive engine note. Optional: Buyers can separately add a heavy-duty brake kit featuring larger rotors and two-piston calipers. Appearance Components Wheels & Tires: 20x8-inch wheels available in Black or Bronze, equipped with matching center caps, black lug nuts, and a recalibrated Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Body Styling: A precision-engineered Air Design front chin splitter. Accents: Custom hood and side graphics, alongside tailgate lettering in either Black or Bronze. The SV300T Price Tag Transforming a Maverick into an SV300T requires a premium investment. When ordered directly from the factory and routed through Penske for complete installation (which covers all parts, labor, and the new tires), the SV300T package costs $15,595. To put that in perspective, a well-equipped 2027 XLT AWD starts around $32,000 to $33,000. Adding the SV300T package pushes the total vehicle cost to the $50,000 threshold. It is an undeniable leap in performance and exclusivity, but buyers will need to weigh that cost against factory performance trims. The price for the SV300T kit for the 2027 Ford Maverick Lobo has not been revealed yet. It should be lower since it will not include the Maverick Lobo-spec lowering springs, performance shock system, stabilizer bar, and upgraded bushings. Those features are already include in the Lobo. As well as the front chin splitter is not available on the Lobo because of the factory lower fascia. We will keep you updated on the price for the Lobo and when ordering will be available for the package on a 2027 Ford Maverick. Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.

By: Tim Bartz, Ford Video Guy If you’ve been keeping a close eye on the latest lineup of Ford’s off-road vehicles, you might have noticed a rather controversial trend making a comeback: the steel wheel. Whether you're looking to order a 2027 Bronco Sport or a full-size 2026 Ford Bronco, it seems like Ford is leaning heavily into "steelies" for their standard trims and black appearance packages. But why the sudden shift, and what does this mean for buyers? Let’s break down exactly what’s happening with Ford's wheel choices, what you need to look out for when placing your 2027 orders, and how dealerships are handling the steel wheel resurgence. The 2027 Bronco Sport: Decontenting the Big Bend Let's start with the Bronco Sport. For the 2026 model year, the popular Big Bend trim came standard with a sharp-looking alloy wheel. However, for 2027, Ford has shaken up the lineup. Ford had the base trim when it launched but removed the trims in the last couple years, making the Big Bend the entry-level trim. But there's a catch: it now rolls out of the factory on standard steel wheels. The alloy wheels you might be expecting are now an "optional" upgrade. **Buyer Beware:** If you are ordering a 2027 Bronco Sport Big Bend and you don't want steel wheels, you must remember to explicitly check that optional wheel box on your build sheet. If a vehicle gets scheduled without it, dealerships can sometimes go into the system and add the option before production, but it's best to get it right from the start! The Steel Wheel Trend on the Full-Size Ford Bronco The push for steelies doesn't stop at the Bronco Sport; we are seeing it across the full-size Ford Bronco lineup as well. The Base Bronco: It's no secret that Base Broncos come standard with steel wheels. Many buyers actually prefer this (more on that later), but it sets a precedent for the trim levels above it. The Black Appearance Package: Available on the Big Bend and Outer Banks trims, this package is a fantastic value. It features sleek graphics, a black-painted Badlands-style grille (repurposed from the original Wildtrak), and aggressive 32-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires. The downside? It comes mounted on standard steel wheels. The Freewheeling Edition: Even the highly stylized, retro-themed Freewheeling Edition comes equipped with black steel wheels if you opt out of the Sasquatch package. Ford has actually tried this before. When the Black Diamond trim was first introduced, it featured standard steel wheels. Ford quickly realized that the market wasn't thrilled, and within a couple of years, they swapped the standard wheel to a premium five-spoke matte black alloy. Will history repeat itself? Dealership Upgrades: Getting the Look You Actually Want The reality on the dealership lot is clear: appearance sells. Vehicles outfitted with steel wheels—whether it’s a Maverick XL or a Bronco Big Bend with the Black Appearance Package—tend to sit on the lot longer. Customers simply prefer a better wheel. To give buyers what they want, dealerships often take matters into their own hands. A popular swap? Ford Ranger Raptor wheels. Because the Ranger Raptor shares the same wheel bolt pattern as the Bronco, dealers frequently source these wheels, or high-quality gloss black aftermarket options, and mount them directly to the factory tires. It instantly elevates the vehicle's curb appeal without sacrificing the quality of the rubber. The Silver Lining: The Perfect Blank Canvas It isn't all bad news. For a specific type of buyer, factory steel wheels are exactly what they want. The Base Bronco, with its standard steelies, serves as the ultimate blank canvas. A massive segment of the off-road community wants to purchase the most affordable trim possible so they can completely customize their wheel, tire, and suspension setup exactly the way they want it. Why pay extra for factory alloys if you're just going to rip them off and install custom beadlocks on day one? Are You Team Steel Wheels? With the 2027 order banks expected to open up shortly, buyers have a decision to make. Are you going to embrace the rugged, utilitarian look of the steel wheels, or are you upgrading to alloys the second you get the chance? Let us know your thoughts! Do you think Ford should bring back alloy wheels for packages like the Black Appearance Package? Drop a comment below and join the discussion. Tim Bartz has worked for Long McArthur Ford since 2001. He is considered an expert when it comes to Ford product information and news.