Ford Ranger Raptor coming to UK 21 | 08 | 2018
FORD HAS CONFIRMED the Ranger Raptor pick-up truck will go on-sale in the UK next year. It will be available from Ford’s Scottish dealerships from ‘mid 2019’ with prices expected to start from around £40,000. (Related: Isuzu releases limited edition D-Max)
Powered by a 210bhp 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine producing 500Nm of torque, the Raptor delivers its power via the same 10-speed automatic gearbox as the US-spec F-150 Raptor. And to ensure drivers get the optimum performance in all conditions, the truck has six different modes; two for on-road use, and four for off-road driving. (Related: Mercedes confirms price for X-Class V6 pick-up)
The Ford Ranger is the best-selling pick-up in the UK. Now the Raptor, built in Thailand, will ensure there’s a performance version available in the UK.
With work carried out by Ford Performance — the division responsible for the GT supercar and Focus RS — the Raptor stands out from the crowd thanks to its new grille, extra ground clearance and LED fog lamps in the front bumper. The newly-flared bumpers accommodate larger wheels mounted on long-travel suspension.
Ford has also made the front bumpers from composite materials which will be better able to withstand the expected dents and dings as the Raptor explores in areas well offroad. Sensibly, the Raptor’s side steps are made from a tough aluminium alloy and include holes to drain sand, mud and snow.
The sensible approach continues inside with a red stripe on the steering wheel to show which way the wheel is pointing, plus unique seats designed to give greater support at high speeds off-road. And to stop the occupants sliding around, the seats also include suede sections.
Under the Raptor’s skin, the brakes have been upgraded and the race-bred suspension has been set up to tackle undulating off-road terrain at speed, while ensuring the occupants enjoy a comfortable ride on-road. Not surprisingly, the whole frame of the Raptor has been mades stiffer and tougher.
To help cope with the extreme conditions Ford expects the Raptor to have to cope with, there’s a unique ‘bash plate’ fitted underneath. Attention has all been paid to the tyres, which have been specially developed for the pick-up. Not only do they have tough sidewalls, but there’s a special tread pattern designed to give grip in mud, snow and sand.
The Raptor also gets Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system, which includes a satnav capable of laying a ‘breadcrumb’ trail which allows drivers to retrace their steps in unfamiliar surroundings. Driver-assistance technology is also fitted in the shape of Electronic Stability Control, Trailer Sway Control and a rear-view camera.
And while Ford of Britain has confirmed the Raptor will go on-sale in the UK next summer, it has yet to decide whether it will be from its flagship Ford Store showrooms or its commercial vehicle dealerships.
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Jim McGill