Next-gen Ford Ranger Raptor: Top 5 things to expect

During the launch of the next-gen 2022 Ford Ranger back in July, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) gave us a preview of the new Ranger Raptor. Along with the brief teasing, Ford’s local arm also announced that the performance-focused iteration of the pickup truck will be launching in Malaysia sometime in Q4. True to its promise, SDAC is set to launch the all-new Ranger Raptor on October 7, 2022, which is just three days away.

Ahead of the launch, here we bring the top 5 things we’re expecting from Ford’s new King of the Jungle.

V6 engine under the hood

In the international markets including Thailand and Australia, the latest form of the Ranger Raptor comes powered by a mighty 3.0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 petrol engine borrowed from the Bronco Raptor. The mill cranks out a maximum power of 397 PS at 5,650 rpm and a peak torque of 583 Nm at 3,500 rpm. It is mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox and 4WD system and the variant-exclusive Baja mode. The latter instantly adapts vehicle settings and offers high-speed off-road demands.

Well, it is not yet confirmed whether the V6 powertrain will make its way to Malaysia or not as the automaker earlier announced the ongoing 2.0-litre EcoBlue twin-turbo turbodiesel engine will continue to be offered in selected countries where the V6 will not be appropriate. Paired with a 10-speed AT and four-wheel drive system, the diesel mill generates 213 PS and 500 Nm of torque. 

Tough looks

Based on Next‑Gen Ranger’s bold and strong style, the new Ranger Raptor looks mean and tough with flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlights emphasising the pick‑up’s width. The aggressive front grille incorporates bold F-O-R-D lettering that aligns with the enhanced capability of the truck. Adding more visual muscle are exclusive bumpers and performance all-terrain tyres. 

The Malaysian-spec model is also likely to get new Matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, mated to advanced technologies like glare-free high beam, predictive curve lights, and auto dynamic levelling providing better visibility. Further enhancing the look and functionality of the truck will be functional vents, grippy cast-aluminium side steps, flared fenders and new LED tail lights.

Upscale interior

The Raptorized Ranger is also expected to come with a spruced-up cabin with exclusive content differentiating it from the standard Ranger. These may include heavily bolstered jet fighter-inspired front seats, aluminium paddle shifters, Raptor-specific drive mode selector, Code Orange accents, a new digital instrument panel with Raptor-specific displays, and a red band on the steering wheel.

However, the standard features borrowed from the standard truck may include a 12-inch portrait-styled head unit, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, smart climate control system, a 360-degree high-resolution surround view camera, a Qi wireless smartphone charger, leather upholstery, an electronic parking brake, and power-adjustable front seats.

More capable than before

The revamped Ranger Raptor has a strengthened chassis with unique mounts and structural reinforcements. Its suspension also benefits from a sturdier design with lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, and new adaptive Fox dampers reducing the friction by 50%. Also part of the kit is beefier off-road equipment and new 33-inch all-terrain tyres with wider front and rear tracks, which are paired with higher ride height and increased ground clearance. All these enable the power-packed Ranger to tame all terrains while delivering best-in-class off-road capabilities.

Enhanced safety kit

Unlike the previous Ranger Raptor, the latest model does not miss out on important active driver assists. It is likely to come with the following gears:

• Multiple airbags
• ABS with EBD and BA
• Traction control system
• Electronic Stability Control,
• Autonomous emergency braking
• Lane keeping assist
• Lane centering assist
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Assist
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert 
• Road Edge Detection
• Dynamic brake support
• Post collision braking
• Evasive Steer Assist 
• Reverse camera 
• Available adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality
• Front and rear parking sensors 
• Autonomous parking assist 

Expected price

The second-gen Ford Ranger Raptor is likely to receive a substantial price hike over the outgoing model, on account of its revamped style and mechanicals. 

So, are you excited about the new off-road-ready Ranger Raptor? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: 2022 Ford Everest vs Toyota Fortuner: The big SUV fight