2023 Ford Ranger Raptor Buying Guide | Biden News

Ford was already on a roll with the release of the F-150 Raptor, and the lineup has since expanded with the addition of the recent Ford Bronco Raptor and Ford Ranger Raptor. It may be a smaller pickup, but the Ranger Raptor shines as both a commuter vehicle and a more rugged machine for off-the-grid adventures and off-road missions.

Even though the Ranger is relatively new by automotive standards, it didn’t take long for the Raptor to arrive and impress the public. In addition to being an ambitious mini-F150-Raptor, it also offers a proven powertrain and perhaps enough image to lure potential buyers away from other automakers like General Motors.

Note. While we await official word from consumers about the upcoming Ranger Raptor, the HotCars Values, Facts & Figures default rating is 1 out of 10. Once we start reporting what owners think about this upcoming vehicle, we’ll be sure to update the rating to reflect opinion of drivers.

Under the hood, everything is as usual, and that’s normal

As you might suspect, the unit that powers the Ford Ranger Raptor is a turbocharged unit; but it’s not bad. While the Ranger Raptor isn’t on sale yet and is slated to arrive at some point as a 2023 model, it will likely be powered by the same twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 that’s also used in the Ford Bronco Raptor, presumably with a capacity of about 392 hp. 430 lb-ft This proven unit is powerful and relatively economical – leagues ahead of the older naturally aspirated V8s that used to be more common. Many will disagree – and they might be right – that the smaller turbo engine lacks the grunt and character of a big-displacement V8 or V6, but with a roughly 10-second 0-60 mph time and massive torque, it should be capable of on and off the road.

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The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor is off-road

With an updated and beefier chassis and suspension setup, the Ranger Raptor should be better off-road, and judging by the F-150 Raptor and Bronco Raptor, it’s going to be the real deal.

According to Ford’s general press release for the European Ranger Raptor: “(Ranger Raptor will have) seven selectable drive modes and a revised suspension with 2.5-inch FOX® Live Valve internal bypass shocks designed by Ford Performance. (Also, the new and improved four-wheel drive system includes an on-demand two-speed electronically controlled transfer case and locking front and rear differentials.)

The suspension system includes “all-new, strong yet lightweight, aluminum upper and lower control arms, long-travel front and rear suspension,” and body protection when things get real off the beaten path. It’s also taller than the standard Ranger and boasts extra ground clearance thanks to its large 33-inch off-road tires. Unsurprisingly, the front engine runs through the same 10-speed automatic transmission as the Bronco Raptor, and there’s no manual transmission option – however, all-wheel drive is standard, and that transmission should be reliable and proven.

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If you want your car to have style and presence, the Ranger Raptor is for you

Ford knows that one of the key strengths of the Ranger Raptor, like its siblings, will be its design and image as much as its technical capabilities. It’s supposed to look tough, modern and appeal to people looking for a “lifestyle car,” something it does by mimicking the look of the flagship F-150 Raptor. Essentially a departure from the Ranger’s design since the pickup returned in 2019, the typical headlights are gone, and the F-150’s black plastic grille is borrowed along with interestingly shaped headlight units.

As Ford says: “The flared wheel arches and C-clamp headlight design emphasize the pickup’s width, while bold FORD lettering on the grille and a strong stand-alone bumper add more visual muscle.

Inside, that theme continues to emphasize the Ranger Raptor’s off-road performance and spirit. The cabin features all-new jet fighter-style sport seats front and rear to improve comfort and provide greater support during high-speed cornering.

Code Orange accents on the dash, trim and seats are matched by Ranger Raptor ambient lighting that bathes the interior in an amber glow. A heated premium leather sports steering wheel with center markers and cast magnesium petals completes the sporty feel.” You also get a 12-inch central infotainment screen and a 12.4-inch digital unit to keep the cabin modern, impressive and practical; These days, screen size is just as important as ground clearance, even in an off-road-friendly pickup truck.

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How much will the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor cost when it finally goes on sale?

With the top-of-the-line Ford Ranger Lariat starting at nearly $38,000, the Raptor will likely command a significant premium over the former. On Ford’s website, the Ford Bronco Wildtrak is priced around $50,000-$51,000 depending on the 2-door or 4-door configuration; the flagship Everglades is a whopping $53,000, and the Ford Bronco Raptor is around $68,500 without options. For a $15,000 surcharge, the Raptor in the Ranger range could cost $53,000 if it follows the same pricing trend.

The base Ranger makes do with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine with 270 hp. / 310 lb-ft of torque – so a 40% increase in power and torque can mean a lot to those who need the most from their Ranger in demanding situations. Then there are matters of style and image, which are subjective; but there’s no denying baby Raptor’s charisma.