The performance version of the Ford Ranger is finally out. Ford unveiled the model for the Asian market. Is it coming to America? The model is definitely coming to this side of the Atlantic but we have to wait a little bit longer. The hardcore 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor has looked up to its bigger brother, the Ford F-150 Raptor for inspiration although it retains its smaller size. Ford unveiled the model in Thailand, a country whose love for pickup trucks is only rivaled by the U.S. market.
2019 Ford Ranger Raptor Exterior
The Ranger Raptor is wider and taller than the conventional model. The Raptor flaunts a new grille that carries the FORD lettering. The model also comes with a huge steel bumper at the front; the rear also has a new bumper. The approach and departure angles have been increased to 32 degrees and 24 degrees respectively. The model also sits further from the ground with a ground clearance of 11.1 inches. Like the F-150 Raptor, the Ranger Raptor has easy-access recovery points for both bumpers. The flanks feature new composite fenders which help prevent trail damage. The fenders also cover the model’s 285/70R17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires. Stopping power comes from enhanced brake rotors (they are 0.4 inches larger than those used on the conventional Ranger).
The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor also features Fox Racing shocks. To enhance its ruggedness over appalling driving conditions, the model features 46.6 mm pistons both at the front and rear. The front suspension features aluminum control arms while the rear features a Watt’s link something alien to American trucks but it does its job quite fine. Other features include coil springs and control arms that dampen as well as help locate the axle. It also features the remarkable Fox Shocks.
The Ranger Raptor is available in 5 exterior colors (Race Red, Frozen White, Shallow Black, Lightning Blue and Conquer Grey).
Interior
The pickup truck also features several interior upgrades starting with suede-wrapped steering wheel and seats. The steering wheel, however, retains the red, on-center marker as well as the thick grips. The seats are strongly bolstered and also feature leather side accents that make entry and exit easy. Also, the seats feature blue contrast stitching and white Raptor lettering. The model also has magnesium shift paddles.
Engine and performance
The Ranger Raptor uses an all-new mill, twin-turbocharged 2.0 L, 4-cylinder turbodiesel. The turbo setup features both low-pressure and high-pressure turbos that support huge airflow and quick spool-up. The system produces 210 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Ford has equipped the model with the same drive modes as the Ford F-150 Raptor; they are Normal and Sport for on-road performance and Grass/Snow/Gravel/Sand/Mud, Rock as well as Baja to tackle the off-road terrain.
The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission which was selected after performing simulations with 7-, 8-, 9-, 12- and 13-speed automatic transmission systems. The 10-speed system was chosen because it perfectly fitted refinement and performance requirements of the model.
Ford is yet to officially confirm the US-market Ranger Raptor but rumor has it that the model will be powered by a turbocharged 2.3 L, 4-cylinder engine hooked to a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Unlike the international-market Ranger Raptor, the US-bound model will produce 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.
Price and release date
Ford did not announce prices of the 2019 Ranger Raptor model during its showcase in Thailand; expect these details in the coming days as the model starts hitting various international markets. Expect the Ranger Raptor to cost more than the regular Ford Ranger pickup truck.
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