Ride and handling

Premcar focused on making the Warrior softer, with progressive bump stops, larger-diameter shock absorbers and dampening rods for firmer control, yet it’s easier to upset than the Wildtrak X over ruts and corrugations and remains a stiffer set-up. The suspension tuning includes a 15mm overall lift, while the Cooper Discoverer tyres add another 25mm. They mean business in the bush but offers a distinct lack of traction on wet bitumen in RWD mode. 16/25

The Wildtrak X doesn’t have the Raptor’s sophisticated Fox shocks and uses leaf springs, so it’s not as talented as its range-topping sibling. Yet it’s still composed enough to easily see off the Warrior. It doesn’t jump or skip as much, while its lighter and somewhat benign steering feels more in-tune with off-road driving. The Ford uses road-focused Bridgestone Duelers and is the one to pick if you’re sticking largely to bitumen. 19/25