The Ford Ranger Raptor is known as a “take no prisoners” pick-up in terms of outright performance, sporty handling and a design treatment distinguishing it from the rest of the Ranger family.
With the rest of the Ranger model line-up launched in December and the workhorses also entering the market, is it is now the turn of the flagship Raptor to enjoy some serious playtime.
What’s new?
Everything is new except for the fearless character and reputation the previous generation managed to achieve in a relatively short space of time since its local introduction in South Africa in 2019.
And the powertrain and performance are what the Raptor is all about.
Unlike its predecessor, which had a 2-litre, four-cylinder, twin-turbo diesel-engine with 157 kW and 500 Nm, the latest version of the Raptor went the opposite route with a 3-litre, V6, twin-turbo petrol-engine. This results in a whopping 292 kW and 583 Nm.
The power is transferred through a ten-speed automatic gearbox. The new engine is mated to an electronically controlled four-wheel drive system with both rear and front differential locks.
Seven selectable drive modes are available, making the most of the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor’s capabilities, including a re-engineered suspension with Ford Performance-developed FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers.
For the rest it is ultra-luxury not familiar in the pick-up genre with fighter jet-inspired seats, an all-digital 12.4-inch instrument cluster, 12-inch centre touchscreen with SYNC® 4A and dedicated Off-road SYNC screen.
Matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights make their debut on the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor, pushing lighting performance to new levels. Featuring dynamic bending lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling, the Matrix LEDs deliver safer lighting.
The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are enhanced by ambient lighting. A premium grade leather sports steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast magnesium paddle shifters add to the dynamic character of this model.
Rear passengers have access to their own USB-A and USB-C charging ports, complemented by a built-in 400-Watt inverter that also provides convenient 240V power to the load box in conjunction with a 12V socket. A premium 10-speaker 660W Bang & Olufsen® sound system provides exceptional sound.
In addition to the regular suite of driving aids such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist and Hill Descent Control, the standard features include a Lane Keeping System with Lane Keeping Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and Road Edge Detection.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centring allows drivers to maintain a pre-set speed and distance from the car ahead and will even bring the vehicle to a complete stop. It is able to detect lane markings and help keep the vehicle centred in the lane.
Evasive Steer Assist uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles ahead and provides steering support to enable drivers to manoeuvre around a vehicle if a collision is imminent.
The Raptor is equipped with the fully automated Active Park Assist 2.0 which helps the driver fit safely in tight spaces at the press of a button. It is integrated with the electronic E-Shifter and electronic parking brake and takes care of the steering, gearshifts, acceleration and braking to navigate into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. It will also steer the vehicle out of a parallel parking spot when prompted.
Pricing:
Ranger Raptor - R1 094 900.
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