Hennessey’s VelociRaptor 400 Bronco gives a capable off-roader a welcomed boost of power and speed.
Texas-based tuner turned manufacturer Hennessey has made a name for itself developing some of the most powerful road-going vehicles ever backed by a full warranty. Whether through a four-figure horsepower output or six-wheel drive, Hennessey has proved that the only limit to how fast you can go is how much you’re willing to spend. Now it’s taking those talents and applying them to one of the most sought-after off-roaders of the moment.
The new Ford Bronco is the latest model to receive the Texas treatment. Christened the Hennessey VelociRaptor 400 Bronco, it features a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. While its stock counterpart puts out only 315 horsepower and 410 foot-pounds of torque, vital upgrades such as a new air intake, an exhaust system, a front intercooler, and engine management software give this Bronco a significant boost. A new heat exchanger and improved air filtration system help regulate operating temperatures. Developing 411 horsepower at 4,400 rpm and 603 foot-pounds of torque at 3,200 rpm, the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco hits 60 mph in 4.9 seconds. Thanks to extensive research and development, it retains full functionality of stock driving modes and off-road systems.
Hennessey also developed various visual upgrades to match this Bronco’s added grunt. Starting with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 35-inch off-road tires and a suspension leveling kit, its stance is undoubtedly aggressive despite lacking any added height. Steel front and rear bumpers wear the VelociRator nameplate and match other darkened elements such as the wheels and grille, contrasting nicely against the body color. Buyers can add a bit of flair with optional Heritage Edition livery and an upgraded leather interior with embroidered headrests.
According to Hennessey, it plans to produce only 200 units of the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco for 2022. However, more build slots may be available next year. The upgraded package is available for both the two- and four-door versions regardless of roof choice. Each SUV comes with a three-year/36,000-mile warranty and can be ordered through authorized Ford dealerships or directly from Hennessey. Including the price of a Bronco Badlands, the package should cost around $80,000. However, pricing will vary due to the high level of customization available.
If history is anything to go by, Hennessey is far from finished developing this off-roader. With the Bronco Raptor slated to arrive sometime this year, the VelociRaptor 400 Bronco is likely one of many powerful off-roaders still to come. For now, Hennessey offers a variety of fast Ford’s ranging from the VelociRaptor 600, based on the F-150 Raptor, to a 1,000-horsepower variation of the Mustang GT 500 known as the Venom 1000.
This article appeared in our June 2022 issue.
