Ford Ranger Raptor: A Midsize Performance Truck Tested
The Ford Ranger Raptor is a midsize performance truck that was first introduced in 2018. It is based on the Ford Ranger pickup truck, but it has been extensively modified to improve its off-road performance. The Ranger Raptor is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that produces 392 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It has a 10-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system.
The Ranger Raptor has a number of features that make it ideal for off-roading. These features include:
- A reinforced frame
- Long-travel suspension
- Fox Racing shocks
- Skid plates
- Locking front and rear differentials
- Terrain Management System with six different modes
The Ranger Raptor is also equipped with a number of features that make it comfortable and convenient for everyday use. These features include:
- Leather seats
- A premium sound system
- A touchscreen infotainment system
- A rearview camera
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
I recently had the opportunity to test drive the Ford Ranger Raptor. I was very impressed with its performance, both on and off the road. The engine is very powerful and responsive, and the suspension is very capable of handling rough terrain. The Ranger Raptor is also surprisingly comfortable and quiet on the road.
Exterior
The Ford Ranger Raptor has a very aggressive and muscular exterior design. It has a large grille with the Ford logo in the center. The headlights are LED and the taillights are also LED. The Ranger Raptor has a number of unique features, such as the flared fenders, the skid plates, and the tow hooks.
The Ranger Raptor is available in a variety of colors, including:
- Conquer Grey
- Code Orange
- Shadow Black
- Arctic White
Interior
The interior of the Ford Ranger Raptor is comfortable and well-equipped. The seats are leather and they are very supportive. The dashboard is well-designed and the controls are easy to use. The Ranger Raptor has a number of features, such as the premium sound system, the touchscreen infotainment system, and the rearview camera.
Performance
The Ford Ranger Raptor is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that produces 392 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. It has a 10-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. The Ranger Raptor is very fast and powerful. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.3 seconds. The Ranger Raptor is also very capable off-road. The suspension is very capable of handling rough terrain and the locking front and rear differentials provide excellent traction.
I tested the Ranger Raptor on a variety of different terrains, including paved roads, dirt roads, and rocky trails. The Ranger Raptor performed flawlessly on all of these terrains. The engine is very powerful and responsive, and the suspension is very capable of handling rough terrain. The Ranger Raptor is also surprisingly comfortable and quiet on the road.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Ford Ranger Raptor is designed for off-road performance, and it excels in this area. The truck features a host of upgrades that make it incredibly capable on challenging terrains:
- Fox Racing Shocks: The Raptor is equipped with Fox Racing shocks, known for their durability and ability to absorb impacts. These shocks provide a smooth and controlled ride, even when traversing rough terrain.
- Long-Travel Suspension: The suspension system offers increased travel, allowing the wheels to maintain contact with the ground for longer periods. This enhances traction and stability.
- Terrain Management System: The Terrain Management System offers various modes that optimize the truck’s performance for different surfaces, such as sand, mud, rocks, and Baja. These modes adjust the throttle response, transmission settings, and traction control to provide the best possible performance.
- Locking Differentials: The Ranger Raptor features locking front and rear differentials, which allow the driver to lock the wheels together for maximum traction. This is particularly useful when encountering slippery or uneven surfaces.
- Skid Plates: Skid plates protect the vital components of the truck, such as the engine, transmission, and transfer case, from damage when driving over rocks and other obstacles.
On-Road Comfort and Technology
While the Ranger Raptor is primarily designed for off-road adventures, it also offers a comfortable and technologically advanced driving experience on paved roads:
- Comfortable Interior: The interior is well-appointed with comfortable seats, quality materials, and a user-friendly layout.
- Infotainment System: The touchscreen infotainment system provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration.
- Safety Features: The Ranger Raptor comes equipped with a range of safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, to help prevent accidents.
Pros and Cons
Here is a summary of the pros and cons of the Ford Ranger Raptor:
Pros:
- Excellent off-road performance
- Powerful engine
- Comfortable interior
- Advanced technology
Cons:
- Fuel economy can be poor
- The ride can be firm on paved roads
- It is more expensive than the standard Ranger
Overall
The Ford Ranger Raptor is a very impressive midsize performance truck. It is very capable off-road and it is also surprisingly comfortable and quiet on the road. The Ranger Raptor is a great choice for anyone who wants a truck that can handle anything they throw at it.
Who Should Buy the Ford Ranger Raptor?
The Ford Ranger Raptor is ideal for individuals who:
- Are passionate about off-roading and seek a vehicle that can handle challenging terrains with ease.
- Desire a truck that stands out from the crowd with its aggressive styling and performance-oriented features.
- Appreciate a blend of off-road capability and on-road comfort.
- Are willing to invest in a premium midsize truck with advanced technology and safety features.
Conclusion
The Ford Ranger Raptor is a truly exceptional midsize performance truck that combines rugged off-road capabilities with on-road comfort and advanced technology. Whether you’re conquering challenging trails or cruising down the highway, the Ranger Raptor delivers a thrilling and capable driving experience. However, potential buyers should consider the truck’s higher price tag and potential fuel economy drawbacks before making a purchase.
