5 Things You Need to Know About the Ford Ranger Raptor
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Built to dominate the desert, master the mountains and rule everywhere in between, the second-generation Ford Ranger Raptor raises the off-road performance bar as a mid-size pickup built for adventure-seeking enthusiasts.
Here are the 5 things you absolutely need to know, plus one more for fun.
Ranger Raptor’s V6 is ready to rumble
Don’t let the “Eco” in EcoBoost fool you – the Ranger Raptor’s 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 is a force to be reckoned with. Tuned by Ford Performance, it delivers a potent 292kW of power and 583Nm of torque. The engine block is forged from compacted graphite-iron, a material so strong it is used in racing cars.
Choose your own soundtrack
Mated to the potent 3.0-litre V6 is a 10-speed automatic transmission. Each gear boasts its own unique boost profile, ensuring seamless power delivery across any terrain or in any selected drive mode. And the soundtrack? It’s just as impressive. The electronically controlled active valve exhaust system lets you dial in the perfect engine note, from a subtle purr in Quiet mode to a roar in Baja1.
Handle the rough stuff
Ranger Raptor’s suspension isn’t about big shocks and beefy components; it’s a marvel of technology and engineering. Lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms provide strength and help keep the weight down, while the long-travel front and rear suspension soaks up bumps and humps with ease. A Watt’s link keeps the rear axle in check, ensuring precise handling even over the roughest terrain. But the real star of the show is the FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers. These aren’t your average passive shocks – they’re constantly adapting to the terrain, your driving style, and the drive mode. Sensors throughout the Raptor take readings 500 times a second, analysing everything from steering input to chassis movement. This data feeds into a system that essentially ‘predicts’ what’s coming next, preparing the shocks for maximum control and comfort.
Master every terrain
The Ranger Raptor has seven selectable drive modes2, each tailored to a specific driving scenario. Each selectable drive2 mode adjusts several elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering, throttle response and even the instrument cluster and centre touchscreen.
And for tricky low-speed sections, Trail Control™3 is your best friend. It’s like cruise control for off-roading, letting you focus on steering while the Ranger Raptor manages acceleration and braking to maintain your chosen speed.
Bold looks and built-in toughness
The Ranger Raptor isn’t just about performance; it wears its capabilities like a suit. The bold F-O-R-D lettering on the grille sets the tone, while the all-steel bumper with integrated tow hooks hints at its adventurous spirit. Flared fenders, complete with functional vents, house aggressive 33-inch BFGoodrich® all-terrain KO3® tyres wrapped around 17-inch wheels.
But the Raptor’s toughness isn’t just skin deep. A thick, high-strength steel bash plate shields the front, while dedicated engine, transfer case, and fuel tank shields provide peace of mind when venturing off the beaten path.
From showroom to champion
The Ranger Raptor isn’t just built for adventure; it’s built to dominate. And what better way to prove its mettle than by tackling the legendary Baja 1000, one of the most gruelling off-road races on the planet.
In 2022, a near-stock Ranger Raptor, prepped with essential safety upgrades, wheels, tyres, extra lights, and underbody protection, entered the Baja 1000. It didn’t just compete; it conquered, winning its production vehicle class. Not content with just one victory, the same Raptor was dusted off and taken to the Finke Desert Race in 2023, another brutal test of endurance, and another class win. In 2024, the Ranger Raptor won its class at both the Finke Desert Race and the Baja 1000.
This incredible track record (pun intended) is a testament to the Ranger Raptor’s inherent capability.
Disclaimers
1 Baja mode is intended for off-road use only.
2 Driver-assist features are supplemental to and do not replace the driver’s attention, judgment and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.
3 Trail Control, Trail Turn Assist, and Trail1-Pedal Drive are extra driving aids. It does not replace the driver’s attention and judgment, or the need to apply brakes. See owner’s manual for details and limitations.
