The new Ford Ranger Raptor made its European debut at Gamescom, ahead of its regional sales launch in 2019.
Developed by Ford Performance, the first-ever Ranger Raptor aims at hardcore off-road enthusiasts, using the same recipe with its big brother, the full-size F-150 Raptor.
Ford’s new performance truck is powered by a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBlue diesel engine producing 210hp (213PS) and 368lb-ft (500Nm) of torque. Paired to it is Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission with magnesium paddle shifters, the same one the Ford F-150 Raptor uses.
In order to cope with high-impact off-road driving, the chassis frame of the Ranger Raptor has been reinforced with high-strength, low-alloy steels. The suspension features adaptive Fox shock absorbers with Position Sensitive Damping, 46.6mm pistons supported by aluminum control arms and a bespoke coilover rear setup.
The brake system features twin-piston front calipers and 332mm rotors front and rear. A set of all-terrain BF Goodrich 285/70 tires have been specially developed for the Ranger Raptor and are wrapped around 17-inch alloy wheels.
“The standout experience of the Ranger Raptor, hands down, is how far you can push it off-road and still ride like a millionaire on-road,” said Damien Ross, chief program engineer, Ranger Raptor, Ford Motor Company. “Everything about the Ranger Raptor builds on the already outstanding sophisticated feel and functional capability of the Ranger, and then goes further. From a driving dynamic fun standpoint, it is really an exceptionally special vehicle.”
There are six Terrain Management System modes: Normal, Sport, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Sand, Rock and Baja. The cabin gets bolstered seats designed for off-road high-speed support, blue stitching over leather accents and a bespoke steering wheel with an on-center marker.
The new Ford Ranger Raptor will also be featured to the upcoming, open-world Forza Horizon 4 video game, which is set for a release on October 2.
“The new Ranger Raptor delivers all the tools a thrill-seeker could ask for,” Leo Roeks, Ford Performance Director, Europe said. “Like a motocross bike, snowmobile and an ATV in one – it’s the ultimate adventure pick-up.”