After
showing off the “regular” next-generation Ranger
, Ford has now revealed the next-generation Ranger Raptor. And with its arrival raises the off-road performance bar for pickup trucks.
The biggest news for the Ranger Raptor is its engine: it’s a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6. The gasoline engine, tuned by Ford Performance maxes out at 288 horsepower and 491 Nm of torque mated to a 10-speed automatic.
The engine block itself is made of compacted graphite-iron which is 75 percent stronger and 75 percent stiffer than iron used in traditional casting. A new anti-lag system, available in Baja mode, keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners, or through gears.
Matching the Ranger Raptor’s new powertrain is an electronically-controlled active exhaust system that amplifies the engine note in four selectable modes: Quiet, Normal, Sport, and Baja.
For those who prefer a diesel, the current 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel will continue on the next-generation Ranger Raptor.
As always, Ford has revamped the chassis 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 it can handle punishing off-road conditions.
Ford also re-designed the suspension. All-new tough yet lightweight aluminum 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.
At each corner are Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers that have position-sensitive damping capability These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever fitted to the Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon‑infused oil that reduces friction by around 50 percent compared to those on the outgoing vehicle.
To provide protection against severe bottom outs, race-proven Fox Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25 percent of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability.
For the first time, 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. It also has seven selectable drive modes enabling it to handle anything from smooth raods to mud and ruts.
Matching the enhanced capability of the Ranger Raptor is an all-new look that builds on the all-new Ranger’s bold, strong style. Flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlight designs emphasize 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 flared fenders cover muscular 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Raptor-exclusive performance all‑terrain tires. Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminum side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and tow bar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle.
Underneath, it offers serious protection as well. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the standard next-generation Ranger’s unit and is made from 2.3 mm-thick high-strength steel. This plate, combined with the engine under shield and transfer case shield, is designed to protect key components such as the radiator, steering system, front crossmember, engine sump and front differential.
Inside, the theme continues to emphasize the off-road performance and high‑energy nature. The cabin features 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 the Ranger Raptor’s ambient lighting, which bathes the interior in an amber glow. A premium leather sports heated steering wheel with thumb swells, on-center marking and cast-magnesium paddle shifters completes the sporty feel.
Occupants will also benefit from the latest digital technology; the high‑tech cabin features a 12.4‑inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch center touchscreen boasting Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system. that delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The 2022 Ford Ranger Raptor is slated to go on sale in the final part of 2022.
Keyword: Next-Gen 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor: This Is It