It draws on the anti-lag technology from the GT supercar, Focus ST hot hatch and the Focus ST supercar.
Ford’s Ranger Raptor was introduced in Europe by Ford in August 2018. The next-generation model is already being replaced with the sturdy truck. According to rumors, the larger 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine will be available for the midsize pickup. Although it’s not as powerful as the Explorer ST with 400 horsepower, it packs plenty of power for this segment.
The twin-turbo engine has been reduced to 288 horsepower and 491 Nm (362lb-ft). This means that it is now 53lb-ft (72Nm) less torque than the performance SUV. These numbers are still quite impressive considering that the Ranger Raptor’s EcoBlue engine produced 210 horsepower and 391 lbft (500 Nm) more torque. The output is sent to the road by a ten speed automatic transmission.
Ford offers low-end muscle with an oil-burner engine. Ranger Raptor will continue to be available with the diesel engine. The gasoline unit will provide anti-lag technology that was adapted from the GT supercar or Focus ST hot-hatchback. If you need to accelerate the truck quickly, it will keep the turbos turning for as long as three seconds.
The Raptor Ranger has a stronger suspension to give it better go-anywhere capability. The Ranger’s off-roader features a stronger aluminum upper and lower control arms, as well as an upgraded Watt’s link system at its back. Blue Oval has installed FOX 2.5-inch shocks that reduce friction by half compared to previous generations.
It’s obvious that there is significantly more suspension travel than the standard Ranger. There’s also a 25% increase in damping force to help with shocks. For the Raptor version, reinforcements have been made to the C-pillar and cargo area, as well as the spare tire. Ford has also strengthened the mountings for shock pads, front shock tower and rear shock bracket.
The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor is equipped with a permanent four-wheel drive system and an electronically controlled, two-speed transfer box. The front and rear locking differentials are available, along with seven driving modes: Normal and Sport, Slippery as well as Rock Crawl and Sand, Mud/Ruts, Baja, and Rock Crawl.
You also get the Trail Control offroad cruise control system. This can be used at speeds up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The muscular fenders are wrapped in 17-inch all-terrain tires. The back has a sporty exhaust with flaps that allow you to change the sound effect. The standard equipment is LED matrix headlights, which are similar to the aluminum side steps and functional air intakes.
Ford claims that the interior features sports seats, which were inspired by jet fighter pilots. Code Orange accents add a touch of class to the cabin. The Raptor’s exclusive Raptor has magnesium shift paddles. It also comes with a 10-speaker B&O audio system. The driver is equipped with a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch vertical touchscreen that supports SYNC 4, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Ford will begin customer deliveries of the EcoBoost-powered Ranger Raptor in Europe late this summer. The diesel version will follow next year. Although there is no word yet on availability in the USA, a recent report suggests that the Michigan factory will begin production of the standard truck in May 2023. The truck will be available in North America for eight years, where the diesel Raptor is unlikely.