All-new Ranger Raptor finally gets the V6 engine it deserves
2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel to be carried over from outgoing Raptor
Which one will Malaysia get?
If you think the all-new Ford Ranger with its F-150-like looks isn’t American enough for you, perhaps the performance-oriented Ranger Raptor might transform you into a cowboy hat-totting with a Southern fried twang and baseball-lovin’ ‘Murican pie.
Making its global unveiling via a 2-minute video, the all-new 2022 Ford Ranger Raptor promises an all-conquering pick-up truck against desert terrains and steep mountain passages while setting new standards in the high-performance off-road pick-up market.
The most powerful variant in the current Ranger line-up, the Ranger Raptor is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 petrol engine that produces 397 PS and 583 Nm. This is the first time the Ranger Raptor is offered with a petrol unit as the previous Ranger Raptor was powered by a 2.0-litre bi-turbo common rail diesel engine (213 PS/500 Nm).
Still, the 2.0-litre diesel engine remains as an option and the availability of either engines could differ depending on market. Malaysian fans of the Blue Oval are likely crossing their fingers, toes, and any appendages that can be crossed hoping Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) is bringing the V6 Raptor into the country.
Speculations aside, the V6 motor is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission and it is designed with performance in mind. A feature that is introduced in the Ranger Raptor is an exhaust volume system, of which there are 4:
Silent Mode – Ideal for an early morning start to not wake up the neighbours or nature
Normal Mode – For everyday use and the default setting on most driving modes
Sports Mode – Louder and more aggressive compared to Normal, for “increased excitement”
Baja Mode – Maximum loudness, similar to a straight pipe, recommended only for off-road driving
Switching to Baja Mode also turns on the anti-lag system (ALS) which keeps the turbocharger rotating at high speeds for up to 3 seconds, reducing turbo lag. Baja Mode might as well be code for Badass or Bastard Mode depending on the perspective.
Aside from the engine and exhaust notes, the Ranger Raptor also comes with enhanced 2.5-inch FOX shock absorbers which improve balance and control of the truck as well as cushioning occupants from the rough terrain that the Raptor is meant to be used for.
Even beginners who really want to take the Raptor off the beaten path would have little trouble overcoming the rough terrain as the truck comes with a permanent 4-wheel-drive (4WD) system with All Terrain Control. This system allows the Raptor to adapt depending on the 7 drive modes depending on the type of surface – On-road or Off-road driving modes.
On-road Driving Mode offers three settings: Normal, Sport, and Slippery. The first two are self-explanatory but Slippery mode is recommended on slippery or uneven road surfaces.
In the Off-road Driving Mode, there are four settings:
Rock Crawl – Provides optimum traction and momentum on loose surfaces
Sand – For use in soft sand and deep snow conditions, optimising power delivery and transmission shifts
Mud/Ruts – For maximum grip off-road during launch and maintaining vehicle momentum
Baja – Tuned for high-speed off-road performance with all systems set for maximum attack
There is also Trail Control which allows the truck to accelerate (up to 32 km/h) and brake on its own while the driver focuses on the steering wheel. Think of it as cruise control but for off-roading.
The looks of the Ranger Raptor command even more presence than the previous generation. "FORD" is spelled out on the grille much like the outgoing Raptor and the F-150 SVT Raptor while 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped with BF Goodrich All-Terrain tyres and aluminium side steps further enhance the performance look.
Inside, orange detailing is seen across the trims which Ford calls ‘Code Orange’. The sports seats are apparently inspired by fighter jets but are claimed to provide enough comfort and support.
Convenience features include a vertical 12-inch centre touch screen which comes supported with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay while tunes are blasted from 8 Bang & Olufsen speakers surrounding the cabin.
Prices for the Ranger Raptor will be announced later in the year. From the looks of things, the all-new Ranger Raptor would stir up the hearts of off-roading enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and urban jungle renegades.
Traded advertising for a career that fits his passion for cars. Enjoys spotting cars during his free time and has a soft spot for Japanese Kei cars but drives a thirsty manual sedan.
