So long four-cylinder diesel. Hello EcoBoost V6.
Ford wanted to tease its second-generation Ranger Raptor at the same time as the regular midsize truck. This was November 2021. Now, the high-performance pickup has more skin to make it easier to wait for the February 22 world premiere. The Blue Oval offers us an opportunity to hear the music delivered by what is certain to be a gasoline engine, just like the first preview.
previous Ranger Raptor The engine was a four-cylinder, twin turbo 2.0-liter diesel engine that produced 210 horsepower and 369 pounds-feet (500 Newton meters) of torque. It is believed that the EcoBoost V6 will replace it, presumably the twin turbo 3.0-liter from the Bronco Raptor With over 400 horsepower. Although the torque figure is unknown, we know that the Explorer ST engine produces 415 lbft (563 Nm).
This video features the Ranger’s flagship version in action, taking to the sand while getting some serious air and using its upgraded suspension. Expect more from the Raptor models than the lower trims. Fender flares are available to house the large off-road tires. The front grille is imposing with massive “FORD” letters.
While the prototype was being driven hard on dirt, it has a full roll cage but is missing the headliner. However, this was only during the testing phase. The body-hugging bucket seats won’t make the cut as they are not going to be made into production. The shift paddles located behind the steering wheel are likely to be part of a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to a full time four-wheel-drive system.
The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor, unlike its predecessors, is expected to arrive in America. This seems possible, as a prototype left-hand-drive Ford Ranger Raptor was seen in North America earlier this month. We reported at the beginning of the month that the fast truck could be sold for $52,500 in the US.
Further down the line, a Ranger Raptor could join the larger F-150 Raptor RaptorR later in the year.