KEY DETAILS ON UPCOMING FORD RANGER RAPTOR REVEALED

Details surrounding the second-generation Ford Ranger Raptor have been revealed and by all accounts it is set to raise the off-road performance bar as a bakkie built for true enthusiasts.

Under the bonnet

The biggest news for performance fans is the fitment of a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre Eco Boost V6 producing 292kW and 583Nm. Tuned by Ford Performance the engine is said to deliver immediate response to throttle inputs and a race-bred anti-lag system enables rapid delivery of boost on demand.

In Baja mode for example this anti-lag system continues to spool the turbocharger for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or between gears.

This new V6 engine will be paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission of which each gear is programmed with its own boost profile for effortless acceleration on all surfaces. An electronically controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in line with four selectable drive modes.

Improved chassis and suspension

The chassis of the Ranger Raptor has received a variety of upgrades. These include a series of unique mounts and reinforcements, for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel as well as unique frames for a variety of components in order to handle punishing off-road conditions.

All-new tough, lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and refined Watt’s link rear end have been designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed. Damping is now taken care of by Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve dampers that are able to adapt in real time to changing conditions as well as via the various drive modes.

Helping the Ranger Raptor to handle any conditions are seven selectable drive modes including the off-road orientated Baja mode for extreme high-speed off-roading.

For the first time, the Ranger Raptor gets an advanced permanent four-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials.

Fitting design updates

Matching the enhanced capability of the Ranger Raptor is an all-new design. Emphasising the increased width are flared wheel arches, Ford truck DNA C-clamp headlights, bold FORD lettering on the grille and a separate bumper.

Matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights push lighting performance to new levels, featuring dynamic bending lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling.

Those flared wheel arches accommodate a choice of 17-inch rim designs, one with bead lock capability, and both wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres.

Functional vents, aero features and tough, newly designed cast aluminium side steps further enhance the look and functionality. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature link to the front, while the precision grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and tow bar that is tucked up high to avoid hampering the departure angle excessively.

Inside story

The interior features all-new jet fighter inspired sport seats, both in the front and rear, that are not only more comfortable but also more supportive during high-speed cornering. Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are enhanced by the Ranger Raptors ambient lighting. A premium grade leather sports steering wheel with on centre marking and cast magnesium paddle shifters complete the picture.

The Ranger Raptor boasts a fully digital cabin, with high resolution 12.4-inch digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen that is home to Ford’s latest-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system, which allows for smartphone mirroring and is paired with a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Availability

The launch and on sale date, as well as pricing, of the second-generation Ford Ranger Raptor are yet to be revealed.

Browse our range of quality, Motus-certified new, used and demo Ford vehicles for sale here.

Source: motus.cars