Ford has unveiled its next-generation Ranger Raptor, which it says offers more power, more capability and more technology.
The current 2.0-litre EcoBlue bi-turbo diesel engine will continue to be available in the second-generation Ranger Raptor from 2023, with further details available closer to launch.
An all-new 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine delivers a huge boost in power over the outgoing Raptor, offering up to 288 PS for high-speed off-road driving, but this will not be a big seller here.
A specific boost profile for each gear of Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission and a race-bred anti lag system help deliver maximum thrills, according to the automaker. This is supported by four exhaust modes: Normal, Sport, Baja, and Quiet.
Ford describes Baja as “the most striking exhaust profile in both volume and note”. This mode is intended for off-road use only.
The Raptor will be the first Next-Gen Ranger available in Europe and is scheduled to arrive from late summer 2022. Exact pricing and launch dates for Ireland have yet to be announced.
The Next-Gen Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to the all-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 this 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 all-new tough yet lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long-travel 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 gets an advanced full-time four-wheel drive system with an all-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 32 km/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 Ford 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, says Ford, featuring predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling to deliver better visibility for 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 tail-lights 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 what Ford calls all-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. There is also an available B&O sound system for those so inclined. More information closer to launch here in the late summer.
