Ford reveals next Ranger Raptor

FORD already showed us what the next-generation Ranger bakkie will look like and offer, but it held back on the Raptor version of SA's favourite leisure double cab.

It has now revealed in detail what the new Ranger Raptor will be all about when it goes on sale, and the best news is more power under the bonnet. How does 292kW and 583Nm sound? These are the figures of the new 3.0 litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 petrol engine powering the next-generation Ranger Raptor.

Ford said this is the engine that customers around the world asked for, and it also makes sense in terms of synergy, given that the Bronco Raptor SUV has a similar powerplant.

While it sounds like the 2.0 litre bi-turbo diesel will still be available in some markets, SA will only have access to the six-cylinder petrol version.

According to Ford's product communication, the V6 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission sending power to all fours on a permanent basis.

Ford said the new Ranger Raptor boasts an electronically controlled twospeed transfer case and both frontand rear-locking differentials, making it suitable for the most hardcore off-road trails you can throw at it. As for the suspension, the new Raptor takes things to the next level with a completely redesigned chassis.

Not only is the chassis significantly reinforced when compared with regular Rangers, but it also features aluminium upper and lower control arms and an updated Watt’s link rear setup.

The cherry on top is a set of Fox 2.5inch Live Valve internal bypass shocks.

Ford performance engineering chief Dave Burn said 'the new suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX Live Valve dampers.

'The suspension adapts in real time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease, ensuring maximum control and performance.'

To further facilitate hardcore offroad excursions, the new Ford Ranger Raptor also boasts enhanced underbody protection and twin tow hooks at the front and rear.

The vehicle also comes with a type of off-roading cruise control, called Trail Control, which allows drivers to set a speed of under 32km/h over difficult terrain.

'While the Ranger Raptor was inspired by desert racers, it’s also a supremely capable overlanding vehicle,' Burn added.

'Out of the box we’ve created an off-road vehicle that you don’t need to modify to get you where you need to go and back again safely.'

The new Ford Ranger Raptor also has a distinctive design that means it won’t be mistaken for a regular bakkie.

In addition to unique 17-inch wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres, the Raptor comes with flared fenders, Matrix LED headlights, FORD block letter grille, and cast aluminium side steps.

Now with all the technical details out in the open, Ranger fanatics are waiting for Ford SA to tell them what the next Raptor will cost.