Ford's latest reveal is a high-performance pickup truck that will be arriving on our shores for the first time. It's also our latest look at the all-new version of the brand's midsize pickup. Say hello to the all-new Ford Ranger Raptor.
While this isn't the first Raptor version of the Ford Ranger, the previous model was based on a version of the pickup not sold here and came with a diesel engine. This time, the whole world is getting the same Ranger, more or less, which has allowed Ford to bring the Raptor version here, too. That makes this one of the first times we've seen the all-new truck.
Power for the Ford Ranger Raptor comes from a 3.0L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6. Output for the European model is 284 hp and 362 lb-ft, which is quite a surprise considering that the Bronco Raptor gets 400 hp from a same-sized V6. This could be to keep a separation between the three Raptor models (including the F-150 Raptor), or it could be due to European emissions rules. If it's the latter, we could see a more powerful engine when the Ranger Raptor arrives in Canada next year.
The 3.0L engine will get an electronically controlled exhaust that has quiet, normal, sport, and "off-road use only" Baja mode. Ford says the latter works like a straight pipe, and it is accompanied by an anti-lag engine setting that keeps the turbos spooled for up to three seconds after you lift.
Raptor-specific mounts and reinforcements to the chassis as well as unique subframes for suspension components help the Ranger Raptor take the off-road load. The suspension features Fox 2.5-inch diameter Live Valve internal bypass shocks filled with Teflon-infused oil Ford says reduces friction by 50 per cent. Fox Bottom-Out Control turns the dampers to their maximum in their last 25 per cent of travel, meant to stop the Ranger from hammering into the ground when landing jumps. Further protecting the driveline, the underbody skid plate is twice the size of the standard Ranger's and made from 2.3-mm thick steel.
Making sure everyone around you knows you're in a Raptor, the Ranger will get the Raptor-signature bold and black FORD-logo grille. It will also have big flared wheel arches to fit all-terrain tires and a beefier bumper. European trucks get matrix LED lights, though we're not sure they'll make it here due to differing regulations.
While this was the Ford of Europe reveal, Ford Motor CEO Jim Farley confirmed on Twitter that the next-generation Ford Ranger and the Raptor version would be coming to the U.S. and Canada. While it will be the first version of the all-new Ranger to go on sale in Europe, later this year, Farley said that it would arrive in Canada next year.
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