Off-roading in a Porsche is not a novel concept, but Ruf's interpretation of a safari 911 stands out. With a suspension lift, off-road tires, and an upgraded flat six engine, the interior is adorned with leather... an abundance of leather. Introducing the 2025 Ruf Rodeo. If the name rings a bell, it's because Ruf introduced a Rodeo concept in 2020, which also had a visually striking appeal. This iteration, Ruf states, features a "Western Americana theme" inspired by the Ralph Lauren Ranch. Extensive brown leather covers the dashboard, center console, door panels, and parts of the seats, complemented by a patchwork of fabric with vivid stitching that pays homage to the American West. Though its roots are in Germany, under Ruf's craftsmanship, this 911-inspired vehicle seems more fitting in an old John Wayne film.
The interior exudes a western flair, while the exterior maintains classic 911 aesthetics. The body is crafted from carbon fiber, incorporating integrated door handles, numerous air intakes, and a ducktail spoiler at the rear, which appears amusingly small between the aggressively flared rear fenders. The Ruf Rodeo likely requires every bit of that space, housing a turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-six engine producing 610 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. This water-cooled engine powers all four wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. The suspension includes double-wishbone setups with horizontal pushrod dampers on both axles, and the vehicle boasts 9.6 inches of ground clearance thanks to its 18-inch tires designed for off-road traction. Six-piston brakes manage stopping power upfront, with four-piston calipers at the rear.
Despite its robust appearance and all-wheel-drive capabilities, Ruf manages to keep the Rodeo's weight at 2,756 pounds, thanks to the carbon fiber body and a lightweight carbon monocoque chassis, which also integrates a steel roll cage. The vehicle is equipped with power windows, locks, and air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable journey through areas without conventional roads. However, it lacks an infotainment system. With the leather-dominated interior and 610 hp at the rear, drivers and passengers are likely to stay engaged.
"We aimed to develop a car that stirs nostalgia while leveraging the excitement of modern technology that allows you to venture anywhere," stated Ruf boss Alois Ruf Jr. "We have a profound connection to the allure of the American West and sought to honor that in the Rodeo. Above all, we wanted to create something enjoyable." More details on pricing and availability are expected soon.
