The Ranger Raptor production has already began overseas in Thailand. For good reason, a lot of truck enthusiasts are hoping that this off-road-ready version of the Ford Ranger is eventually released in America. With the release of Chevrolet’s Colorado ZR2, Ford should be aiming to step foot on U.S. soil (but we can only hope). Let’s take a look at what we now know about the next-generation Ford Ranger Raptor, which will soon hit the streets of Australia.
The Ranger Raptor Motor
The new Ranger Raptor hides a 2.0-liter, twin-turbo diesel engine paired up with a 10-speed automatic transmission. If the Ranger Raptor comes to the United States, expect it to be powered by a different engine. The most likely power source? Ford’s 2.7-liter, EcoBoost V6. The same motor currently featured in the 2019 Ford Edge ST which produces 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. This would be a hefty increase from the Colorado ZR2’s 3.6L V6 running at 308 horse power and 275 pound-feet of torque. Although the Ranger Raptor may not pack as much power as the mighty F-150 Raptor, a lighter design will enable it to keep pace with its larger sibling while taking some of the market away from Chevrolet.
The new Ford Ranger Raptor is engineered to dominate off-road trails. Ford fitted it with a number of rugged accessories. Fox Racing Shox suspension dampers help the midsize pickup to confidently soak up rough terrain. Also, a multi-mode drive system allows you to customize the truck’s traction while driving in different terrains. Some of the other goodies include an advanced 4WD system, skid plates, and integrated tow bars. If you’re sprinting across the Baja desert or driving to work in Atlanta traffic, you will be able to enjoy the ride.
That truck looks WIDE… because it is..
In comparison to the regular Ranger, the Raptor version looks noticeably more aggressive. You’ll immediately notice its wider stance and muscular fender flares. The truck comes in at 67″ wide, which is about a 6″ increase from a normal ranger. 1.5″ wider than the Colorado ZR2 and almost 3″ wider than the Toyota TRD Pro. As expected, a beefy set of all-terrain tires come standard. A total of five paint colors are available, including Race Red and Lightning Blue.
Blue upholstery stitching and the Raptor logo stitched into the racing seats is one of the first things you will notice. A red hash mark is featured on the steering wheel as in the F-150 Raptor. An American-spec Ranger Raptors should be loaded with technology. Ford’s updated Sync 3 infotainment system ranks among the class leaders. The truck also features a B&O PLAY premium audio system.
Will it come to America?!
While Ranger Raptor production is underway, Ford executives have still not officially confirmed a U.S. version. Nevertheless, Ford fans are keeping their fingers crossed. There is no doubt Ford would have a great market response to this truck in America. It would be foolish to let Chevrolet and other manufactures take the entire market. Especially with pickup trucks becoming increasingly popular. It will also be a perfect alternative to the larger Ford F-150 Raptor.
Even if the Raptor model isn’t released here, the 2019 Ranger will offer a capable FX4 Off-Road package. It’ll include a heavy-duty front skid plate, an all-new Trail Control system, and an electronic-locking rear axle. To see more off-road content check out our Instagram page!
