Ford Ranger Raptor: Key highlights

The Ford Ranger Raptor created quite a stir when it was first introduced back in 2018. This large pickup truck never fails to draw eyes when it barrels through streets and highways. A hybrid of the Ford Ranger and Ford F-150 Raptor, this model is still the most popular in the local pickup segment.

The Ranger is Ford’s midsize truck and challenged the perception towards pickups as a rugged vehicle only meant for carrying loads. It was able to break into the market as a family-oriented vehicle and was modernized with a number of tech features to meet the needs of drivers today.

The Raptor was designed by Ford as a response to the growing competition in the pickup segment. This behemoth of a vehicle is a whole two inches taller than the Ford Ranger Wildtrak — another version of the Ranger. The body is still based on the classic Ranger T6. However, for the Ranger Raptor, Ford made the dimensions wider and swapped the fenders and rear quarter panels with a more muscular design.

Under the hood is a 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine that can generate 210 hp at 3,750 rpm and 500 Nm at 1,750-2,000 rpm. This is the same engine that powers the 4x4 variant of the Ranger Wildtrak. This engine can be mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Ranger Raptor price tag reads P1,998,000 — definitely a steep number. Introductory prices on its release was at P1,898,000. However, Ford announced a price hike last year, adding an increase of P100,000 after a fervent response from the Philippine market. Despite its heavy price tag, the Raptor is still the most favored Ranger by auto enthusiasts. To commemorate the Ranger Raptor, we listed the key highlights of this popular vehicle to see what about it drives everyone crazy.

Superior exterior build

The Ford Ranger Raptor’s exterior can have an auto enthusiast gushing for days on end. This huge vehicle may be based on the classic T6 model, but think of the Raptor as the T6 on steroids. It sports the signature all-black front grille with the large FORD emblem. It also has the Ranger’s projector HID headlights and LED Daylight running lamps.

Other personal customizations, especially for the Raptor, include Fox shock absorbers and custom BFGoodrich 17-inch all-terrain tires.

Sporty and premium interiors

The inside of the Ford Ranger Raptor is far from its rough exterior. The dashboard features black soft-touch panels and a steering wheel that looks as if it belongs on a sports car. The seats are upholstered in perforated leather with blue stitching and suede inserts. To top it off, they have the prestigious Raptor logo stitched onto the seats.

The infotainment system is powered by Ford’s Sync 3 system that is equipped with Apple Carplay and Android Auto. Ford also added 230-volt sockets for easy charging of gadgets.

Turbocharged engine

Ford has already begun swapping out their standard 3.2L 5-cylinder turbo diesel engines with 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engines. While there were initial apprehensions regarding performance, Ford introduced bi-turbo technology by adding two turbochargers. This enables the small 2.0L engine to generate a whopping 213 hp and 500 Nm of torque — that’s more power and torque than the original 3.2L engine.

Acceleration is a breeze and still leaves a lot of torque to spare. Drivers will also be happy to know that the gearbox is incredibly responsive, making it easy to overtake or switch to four-wheel drive.

Powerful 4x4 features

While most 4x4s in the local market are typically ideal for crawls along jungle trails, the Ranger Raptor was designed for fast off-roading. It has a reinforced chassis, coil springs on all four corners, and a custom Fox damper system that is commonly found on ATVs and dirt bikes. On top of that, its suspension system is no joke, capable of absorbing and withstanding even the toughest roads.

Ford Ranger Raptor Baja mode

The Ranger Raptor specs sheet still includes the original Raptor’s Terrain Management System which features the infamous ‘Baja mode.’ Named after the Baja 1000 desert race where Ford first tested its pickups, this mode is perfect for adrenaline junkies.

Ford Ranger Raptor Baja was designed for ‘high-speed desert running.’ When in this mode, it allows for quicker shifts, more engine power, and transmission gears that can hold its own during rev range.

Other modes include Normal, Sport, Weather, Mud/Sand, and Rock Crawl.

Driving assist technology

The best thing about the Ranger Raptor is that, despite its rugged disposition, Ford did not compromise on tech features to make the driving experience more convenient. Besides having light steering and excellent high-speed road handling, the vehicle is equipped with sensors and cameras to make maneuvering and parking easier.

A few of the Ranger Raptor key features include:

• Automatic headlights
• Rain-sensing wipers
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Speed-sensing door locks
• Hill start assist
• Electronic stability program (EPS) with traction control
• Trailer sway control
• Anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution

The Ford Ranger Raptor has certainly proved its versatility and power. Despite taking features and characteristics from two of the most powerful models in the Ford pickup lineup, the Ranger Raptor was able to become its own distinct self.

Which was your favorite highlight on the Ford Ranger Raptor? Share with us your thoughts on our social media.

Also Read: Ford Ranger Raptor: Know its alternatives