Ford reveals second-generation Ranger Raptor

KUALA LUMPUR: As promised by Ford, the automaker unveiled the second-generation Ranger Raptor on the 22nd of February, 2022. The performance pickup now benefits from an array of upgrades both inside and out. So, let’s check out Blue Oval’s new King of the Jungle in detail, starting with the mechanical details.

As expected the new Ranger Raptor is powered by a 3.0-litre Ecoboost twin-turbo petrol V6 mill making a maximum power of 288 hp along with a peak torque of 491 Nm. Some sources reported the American version will pump out 397 hp and 583 Nm. Either way, the new Ranger Raptor gets a good power hike compared to the ongoing 213 hp figure.

It is to be noted that Ford will continue to offer the existing 2.0-litre turbo diesel unit in certain markets, now will it come with a power hike or not is still a mystery. We hope to get the V6 Raptor for the local market.

The V6 mill is coupled with a new full-time AWD system and a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Like the existing model, the new Raptor will also feature the variant-exclusive Baja mode, it now comes with an active exhaust system selector, called Baja, it is the loudest of all.

The Baja drive mode also comes with an anti-lag system for the turbocharger. It keeps the turbocharger spinning for around three seconds after the throttle is lifted off by the driver, thus allowing for faster resumption of acceleration.

Further optimising performance are individual turbocharging boost profiles for each of the 10 gears.

What else?

• The chassis is significantly toughened with several structural reinforcements like beefier shock towers and rear shock brackets
• Redesigned suspension with lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms
• Fox adaptive shocks are standard
• Features Ford’s latest 2.5-inch Live Valve dampers with Teflon-infused oil
• Sophisticated suspension set-up providing the ‘perfect balance’ between on-and off-road performance

To top it all Ford has given the Ranger Raptor a unique design language including extra flared wheel arches, unique bumpers, signature F-O-R-D lettering on the grille, and cast aluminium side steps. It also gets actual functional aero vents, 17-inch allies wrapped in ‘Raptor-exclusive performance all-terrain tyres’ and matrix LED headlights with LED DRLs.

On the inside, the list of upgrades continuous and the pickup now gets a 12-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment display, cast-aluminium gearshift paddles, a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster with Raptor-specific displays, Code Orange accents, unique jet fighter-inspired sports seats, 10-speaker B&O sound system, and the Raptor-specific drive mode selector.

Price? Ford is yet to announce the second-gen Ranger Raptor price, but we expect it will receive a substantial hike over the existing model. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

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