Raptors attack the Outback

The highly anticipated Ford Ranger Raptor has hit markets in the Asia Pacific region, ahead of its South African debut in the first half of 2019.

“Our performance vehicles bring different customers into Ford showrooms, and the Ranger Raptor will help access new customers looking for a Ranger with immense off-road capability like no other. We have a passion for bringing the best to our customers, and the Ranger Raptor showcases the best of Ford Performance’s expertise in performance-vehicle design and engineering,” says Trevor Worthington, vice president, product development, Ford Asia Pacific.

The Ranger Raptor is ready to set a new benchmark in high-speed, off-road pickup capability. It packs a hefty punch that makes it the ultimate truck in its segment to drive, says Ford.

The Ranger Raptor boasts 283 mm of ground clearance and 150-mm wider front and rear tracks. The front fenders are made from durable composite materials and have been designed to accommodate the long-travel suspension with its Position Sensitive Damping (PSD) shock absorbers (exclusively manufactured by FOX) and off-road BF Goodrich tyres. The front bumper includes new LED fog lamps with air-curtain ducts, which reduce air resistance.

Under the skin, the Ranger Raptor’s unique chassis frame is newly developed and has been extensively modified for high speeds and off-road endurance. Built to withstand high-impact off-road encounters, Ranger Raptor’s frame consists of various grades of high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) steel.

A new 2,0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine powers the Raptor. It delivers a maximum of 213 PS (157 kW) of power and 500 Nm of torque. Its ten-speed automatic transmission is created with high-strength steel, aluminium alloys and composites to optimise durability and weight. Why ten gears? For a wider ratio-span, resulting in better acceleration and responsiveness, says Ford.

“The standout experience of the Ranger Raptor, hands down, is how far you can push it off road – versus any other available standard production road vehicle – and still provide amazing on-road ride comfort,” says Damien Ross, chief programme engineer, Ford Ranger Raptor.

To underline its desert rally credentials, the Ranger Raptor’s Terrain Management System (TMS) includes a “Baja” mode, inspired by Mexico’s famous Baja Desert Rally, which enables ultra-responsive, high-speed off-road performance.

A host of Driver-Assist Technologies (DATs) are available at the push of a button, incorporating unique design features tailored for the Ranger Raptor. For instance, the satellite navigation system offers a “breadcrumb” feature to leave a trail in uncharted areas – perfect for the serious off-roader.

“Everything about the Ranger Raptor builds on the already outstanding, sophisticated feel and functional capability of the Ranger, and then goes further. From a driving dynamics and fun standpoint, it is really an exceptionally special truck,” Ross concludes.