Ford’s new next-generation Ranger Raptor has arrived in Europe, with first customer deliveries underway.
It is expected here in Ireland by February, with prices available to come.
Ford says the high-performance pick-up has a twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 which delivers 292PS and 491Nm of torque. Customers also have the option of choosing a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, which will be available to order in the Ranger Raptor from early 2023, with first deliveries expected next summer.
It adds that there is a specific boost profile for each gear of Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission. And a race-bred anti-lag system helps deliver maximum thrills, according to the automaker.
This is supported by four exhaust modes: Normal, Sport, Baja, and Quiet. And Ford describes Baja as “the most striking exhaust profile in both volume and note”. This mode is intended for off-road use only.
The blue oval marque says the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis compared to the new Ranger. A series of Raptor-specific mounts and reinforcements for elements, including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket, all combine to ensure Next-Gen Ranger Raptor can handle punishing off-road conditions.
Ford has equipped the new Raptor with 2.5-inch Fox Live Valve shocks, which are filled with Dupont Teflon-infused oil and reduces friction by around 50 per cent compared to those on the outgoing vehicle. Those shocks are bolted to a completely redesigned suspension system.
Ford says tough yet lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long front and rear suspension, and a refined Watt’s link rear end have been designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed.
For the first time, the Ranger Raptor also gets an advanced full-time four-wheel drive system with a new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials.
The new vehicle also features Trail Control, which is like cruise control for off-roading. The driver simply selects a set speed below 32km/h and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.
When it comes to styling, flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlight designs emphasise the pick-up’s width, while bold F-O-R-D lettering on the grille and the tough separate bumper add more visual muscle.
The matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights push Ranger Raptor’s lighting performance to new levels, according to Ford, featuring predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling to deliver better visibility for Ranger Raptor drivers and other road users.
The flared fenders cover muscular 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Raptor-exclusive performance all-terrain tyres. Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck.
At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature styling link to the front, while the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle.
Inside, the cabin features new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering. The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by Ranger Raptor’s ambient lighting.
A premium leather sports heated steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast-magnesium paddle shifters completes the sporty feel. Other features include a 12.4-inch digital dash and a 12-inch centre touchscreen, the latter of which is running Ford’s Sync 4A infotainment system with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also available is a B&O sound system.
