Diesel-powered Ford Ranger Raptor unveiled

Previously, the Raptor nameplate appeared only on the full-size F-150 pick-up sold across North America. Now that situation’s changing thanks to the introduction of the mid-size Ranger Raptor.

The new truck, which will initially be built in Thailand exclusively for the Asia Pacific region, combines aggressive looks with enhanced off-road abilities.

Ford Ranger Raptor Double Cab (2019) Front

Key features include a stronger chassis engineered by Ford Performance to accommodate a unique suspension set-up. Among the upgrades are Fox Racing Shox dampers that incorporate Position Sensitive Damping and Internal Bypass technologies. Also fitted are a Watt’s linkage arrangement and coilovers for the solid rear axle.

Consequently, ground clearance rises to 283 mm (11.1”) and the track measurement widens to 1,710 mm (67.3”). The crucial approach, ramp-over and departure angles meanwhile have been increased to 24.0°, 32.5° and 24.0° respectively.

Ford Ranger Raptor Double Cab (2019) Front SideFord Ranger Raptor Double Cab (2019) Dashboard

Driving modes are selected via the Terrain Management System. ‘Normal’ and ‘Sport’ cover on-road use, then for other surfaces there are ‘Grass / Gravel / Snow’, ‘Mud / Sand’, ‘Rock’ and ‘Baja’ settings.

Of course, such electronic trickery would be ineffective without decent mechanical grip, so the Ranger Raptor benefits from 17” wheels shod with specially-developed BF Goodrich 285/70 R17 tyres.

Ford Ranger Raptor Double Cab (2019) InteriorFord Ranger Raptor Double Cab (2019) Rear Side

The F-150 Raptor currently utilises a 3.5 litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol V6 with 450 bhp (335 kW / 456 PS) and 691 Nm (510 lb/ft) of torque, but the Ranger’s engine follows a very different formula.

It’s a 2.0 litre bi-turbo diesel four-cylinder unit that produces 210 bhp (157 kW / 213 PS) and 500 Nm (368 lb/ft). Nevertheless, one important component is common to the two vehicles: they both have a ten-speed automatic transmission.

Although availability in Europe has yet to be confirmed, Ford surely isn’t going to ignore the opportunity to add a halo model to the Ranger line-up? A similar situation exists for the USA and Canada, however a Ranger Raptor sold there would undoubtedly require a gasoline motor.

Related posts:
2019 American-spec Ford Ranger unveiled
2016 Ford Ranger pick-up revealed

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