The new Ford Ranger Raptor takes this pickup to a new level | Biden News

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What it is?

The Ranger Raptor accounts for one in 20 pickup trucks sold in Europe.  (Ford)

The Ranger Raptor accounts for one in 20 pickup trucks sold in Europe. (Ford)

Ford occupies a rather enviable position in the pickup market. Its F-150 is the best-selling truck in the States, while here in the UK the Ranger dominates the event, accounting for more than half of sales in the segment.

And sitting atop the Ranger lineup as a halo version is the Raptor. Although only a small fraction of Ranger sales, this beefed-up, sport-tuned truck still accounts for one in 20 pickup trucks sold in Europe. Now Ford is back with a next-generation version that brings a whole host of improvements.

What’s new?

Raptor will go on sale before other Ranger models.  (Ford)

Raptor will go on sale before other Ranger models. (Ford)

This latest Ranger introduces a number of key updates, not least to the interior, which is dominated by a new 12-inch touchscreen with portrait orientation.

But we’re focused on the Raptor, the only true extreme off-road vehicle on sale in the UK. Demonstrating its importance, it goes on sale several months ahead of standard Ranger models. It’s a big thing to behold, sitting noticeably higher thanks to its stiff Fox suspension, which has been reworked. There’s a new locking front differential to help in extreme conditions, and the highlight is the introduction of a powerful new V6 petrol engine.

What’s under the hood?

The Raptor features a new 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with a capacity of 288 hp.  (Ford)

The Raptor features a new 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with a capacity of 288 hp. (Ford)

UK Raptors have previously been offered exclusively with a 2.0-litre diesel engine, and while that will return in a few months, the real highlight here is the new 3.0-litre V6 turbo petrol unit.

Producing 288 hp. and 491 Nm of torque, this is almost 100 hp. more than the diesel, and immediately gives the Raptor a sportier focus. 0 to 60 mph takes just 7.7 seconds – keep in mind this truck weighs almost 2.5 tons unladen – while it will go on to 111 mph. Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission with electronic all-wheel drive is also used.

The elephant in the room is the frankly terrible running costs. Ford claims just 20.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 315g/km. If you care at all about your fuel bills, it’s probably worth waiting for a more efficient diesel.

How is it to drive?

The Raptor is remarkably capable when it comes to rough terrain.  (Ford)

The Raptor is remarkably capable when it comes to rough terrain. (Ford)

The Ranger Raptor is a truck like no other. Designed to be one of the most powerful production cars out there, its talents are impressive. Our test route included some impressively challenging rock climbs and extreme steep descents, and it felt like it barely broke a sweat. There are front and rear locking differentials, and this custom Fox suspension setup is completely different from the regular Ranger.

The Raptor is also a Ford Performance-engineered model, and that V6 engine really amps it up. The power on offer is great and the new active exhaust system gives this Ranger a roar that just can’t help but smile. However, a quiet setting is available, so you won’t have to fight with your neighbors.

However, to embrace the Raptor’s full madness, you need to put it in Baja mode (one of seven different driver settings), although Ford emphasizes that this is for off-road use only. It offers the full performance of the Raptor to unleash it, allowing for ridiculous sideways action.

What does it look like?

While there’s no denying the Raptor’s off-road pedigree, it’s no secret that most of these models are bought because of how they look. It’s probably one of the most aggressive vehicles on the road, with its insane height (those side steps need more to help you reach it) and massive bumpers that look particularly assertive.

While the standard Ranger is hardly a shrinking violet, the Raptor is noticeably meaner. The impressive FORD lettering on the radiator grille is combined with the new C-shaped LED lighting at the front. You can go even bolder with the new exclusive Code Orange paint color for the Raptor, as well as a special sticker pack.

How is it inside?

The interior of the new Ranger is dominated by a 12-inch touch screen.  (Ford)

The interior of the new Ranger is dominated by a 12-inch touch screen. (Ford)

The interior of the last Ranger has started to show its age, so the new Raptor looks like a real step forward, not least helped by the new 12-inch touchscreen. Featuring the latest Ford software, it’s as good to look at as it is to use. Ford has also brought back the traditional climate buttons, which are very welcome – not least when driving off-road.

Quality also seems to have improved, with new red accents and “jet-inspired” leather and Alcantara seats giving the cabin a welcome lift. One gripe, however, is the rather flimsy drive mode dial, which seems like it might come off in the palms of a heavy hand.

This new Raptor also continues to suffer from the same practical issues as its predecessor. Thanks to the updated suspension, its payload is limited to 652 kg, and the towing limit is 2.5 tonnes per tonne lower than the standard model.

What is the specification?

The Raptor's low payload means it can't take advantage of favorable commercial vehicle tax rates.  (Ford)

The Raptor’s low payload means it can’t take advantage of favorable commercial vehicle tax rates. (Ford)

The Raptor is loaded with off-road performance – those Fox shocks don’t come cheap, along with a sports exhaust and a number of other changes Ford makes to turn the Ranger into a Raptor.

But the spec is generally excellent, including matrix LED headlights, a 10-speaker B&O audio system, keyless entry, power steering and heated front seats.

This whole kit costs a pretty staggering £58,900 including on-road costs. Because of its useful load capacity, the Raptor is not classed as a ‘dual purpose’ light commercial vehicle, meaning business users cannot claim a VAT refund or benefit from the low tax in kind that pick-ups typically offer. . This can be a stumbling block if you buy with a “smart” head.

Verdict

The Ranger Raptor is a pickup truck unlike any other.  (Ford)

The Ranger Raptor is a pickup truck unlike any other. (Ford)

While Ford is getting smart about its electrification plans (just look at the news that the Fiesta is being discontinued as the brand goes electric-only), the Ranger Raptor looks like a real banger for a big pickup with a stupid engine.

It’s an extraordinary feat of engineering that looks like a factory project, but was actually created by one of the world’s largest car manufacturers. Its off-road ability is second to none and it somehow manages to be even more “tough” than before. Combined with a more modern cabin, a fun V6 engine and a sporty exhaust, the Ranger Raptor can put a smile on your face at any occasion. Until you get to the gas station, that is…

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