Ford Ranger Raptor Introduced for International Markets

Ford has unveiled the new Ranger Raptor for international markets, the automaker announced.

The performance-minded pickup will be powered by an all-new twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine tuned by Ford Performance to produce a targeted 283 horsepower and 362 lb.-ft. of torque in Europe and 392 hp and 430 lb.-ft. in Australia.

The twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 engine boasts a compacted graphite-iron cylinder block, which is around 75% stronger and up to 75% stiffer than the iron used in traditional castings, the automaker said, and is equipped with an anti-lag system similar to that first seen on the Ford GT road car and Focus ST.

The new anti-lag system, available in Baja mode, keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or through the gears when the driver steps back on the accelerator, Ford designers said. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission’s gears.

In addition to the new powerplant, an electronically‑controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in four selectable modes. Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode that uses one of the following settings: Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja, which behaves more like a straight-through system and is intended for off-road use only.

A 2.0-liter EcoBlue bi‑turbo diesel engine will continue to be available in the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor from 2023.

The Next-Gen Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to the all-new Ranger. A series of Raptor-specific mounts and reinforcements for elements include the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket.

Ford engineers completely redesigned the suspension for the Ranger Raptor, including an all-new, lightweight aluminum upper and lower control arm, long‑travel front and rear suspension and a refined Watt’s link rear end.

The next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers feature control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are filled with Teflon‑infused oil that reduces friction by around 50% compared to those on the outgoing vehicle.

Linked to Ranger Raptor’s revised selectable drive modes, the Live Valve internal bypass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality both at high and low speed, Ford said.

In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare the Ranger Raptor for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the bypass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used, and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.

To provide protection against severe bottom outs, race-proven FOX Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25% of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability.

Ranger Raptor’s off-road capability is further enhanced with underbody protection. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the standard Ranger’s unit and is made from 2.3 mm-thick high-strength steel. This plate, combined with the engine undershield and transfer case shield, is designed to protect key components such as the radiator, steering system, front crossmember, engine sump and front differential.

Twin rated tow hooks at the front and rear provide flexible recovery options while driving off‑road; the design facilitates access to one of the tow hooks if the other is buried, as well as enabling the use of balance straps during snatch recoveries in deep sand or thick mud.

The Ranger Raptor is also equipped with an advanced full-time four-wheel drive system with an all‑new electronically‑controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials. The truck also has seven selectable drive modes, including the off-road oriented Baja mode.

Each selectable drive mode adjusts a number of elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering and throttle response. In addition, the gauges, vehicle information and color themes on the instrument cluster and center touchscreen change with the selected drive mode.

Next-Gen Ranger Raptor also features Trail Control, which is like cruise control for off‑roading.  The driver simply selects a set speed, and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain, Ford said.

In addition to its performance upgrades, the Ranger Raptor features an all-new exterior look. Flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlight designs emphasize the pick‑up’s width, designers said, while F-O-R-D lettering on the grille and the tough separate bumper add more visual muscle.

The matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights feature predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling.

The flared fenders cover 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Raptor-exclusive performance all‑terrain tires. Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a styling link to the front, while the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle.

Inside, the cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering. The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by Ranger Raptor’s ambient lighting. A premium leather sports heated steering wheel with thumb swells, on-center marking and cast-magnesium paddle shifters completes the sporty feel.

The cabin features a 12.4‑inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch center touchscreen with Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system that delivers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and is connected to a 10-speaker B&O sound system.