Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor is the most powerful version: 288 hp and 491 Nm

European Ranger enthusiasts have special reasons to celebrate. The new Ranger Raptor is the first model in the Next-Gen Ranger range to be launched in Europe, with deliveries to customers starting in the last quarter of 2022. The Ford Ranger Raptor's imminent arrival in Europe is celebrated by an action-packed video showing the vehicle jumping from a cargo plane to arrive on time for its media debut.

The most important news for performance fans is introducing a new 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 petrol engine, set by Ford Performance to produce 288 hp and 491 Nm. The new Ford engine offers a considerable increase in power over the current 2.0-liter Biturbo diesel engine, which will continue to be available in specific markets in the 2023 Next-Gen Ranger Raptor.

The 3.0-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine has a compact 75% stronger graphite-iron cylinder block than a conventional engine block. In addition, Ford Performance has ensured that the engine provides an immediate response to acceleration and an anti-lag system created for racing, similar to the one first seen in the Ford GT. Then the Ford Focus ST allows for a swift engine response.

The new anti-lag system keeps the turbine spinning for up to three seconds after the driver reduces acceleration, allowing a faster resumption of boost pressure and immediate acceleration when cornering or shifting when stepping on the acceleration pedal. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual boost profile for each of the 10-speed automatic transmission gears for optimized performance.

Ranger Raptor's new propulsion system provides effortless acceleration on gravel, earth, mud, and sand. An active, electronically-controlled exhaust system amplifies the engine's note in four selectable ways to transform the vocal character of the Ranger Raptor.

Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel or selecting a driving mode that uses one of the following settings:

• Quiet - prioritizes quiet over performance and sound to keep in touch with neighbors early in the morning.
• Normal - intended for everyday use, this profile notes presence with presence, without being too noisy for street use.
• Sport - offers a louder and more dynamic note.
• Baja - the most aggressive evacuation profile in volume; the evacuation behaves almost like a direct system. Intended for use in rough terrain only.

The Next-Gen Ranger Raptor has a unique structure compared to the new Ranger. Several version-specific reinforcements were adopted for the C-pillar, tipper, and spare wheel. The chassis also has individual frames for springs, shock absorbers, and rear shock mounts so that the Ford Ranger Raptor can cope with the most challenging conditions in rough terrain.

A high-performance off-roader like the Ranger Raptor needs a tailor-made undercarriage, so Ford engineers have completely redesigned the suspension. The sturdy yet lightweight aluminum upper and lower control arms, the long-stroke front and rear suspension, are designed to provide more high-speed control on off-road action.

The Ranger Raptor undercarriage's modules make the most of the new FOX shock absorbers with a Live Valve. As a result, the undercarriage adapts in real-time and allows exceptional body control on the road while quickly absorbing bumps and deeper ditches, ensuring maximum power and high performance. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever mounted on the Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon infused oil that reduces friction by about 50% compared to the previous model.

Although FOX produces the shock absorbers, the calibration and development work was done by Ford Performance, using a mix of computer and real-world testing. As a result, absolutely everything in terms of damping rate, ground clearance, and valve calibration was optimized to achieve a perfect balance between comfort, control, stability, and traction on and off rough terrain.

In addition to the fact that the system works according to the chosen running mode, it always prepares the shock absorbers for the existing road conditions. The pressure is adjusted extremely precisely for a linear stroke as the shock absorber compresses. The damping force was generated at its highest level in the last 25% of the shock absorber stroke to prevent a severe impact. The system can also strengthen the rear shock absorbers during strong accelerations to limit body movements.

The Ford Ranger Raptor receives an advanced all-wheel-drive system with new front and rear lock differentials for the first time - a valuable feature for off-road enthusiasts.

LED matrix headlights and LED lights are pushing the lighting performance of the Ranger Raptor to new levels. They can illuminate where the car is going, have a high beam without blinding, and automatic dynamic adjustment to provide better visibility to the driver and other road users.

The extended wings cover the 17-inch light-alloy wheels with All-Terrain tires, developed specifically for the Ranger Raptor. Functional ventilation holes, aerodynamic features, and sturdy cast aluminum side steps help to improve the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, the LED headlights offer a distinctive style link to the front. In contrast, the Precision Gray rear bumper features an integrated buffer step and tow bar positioned upward to avoid compromising the starting angle.

Inside, the theme emphasizes Ranger Raptor's rugged terrain performance and highly energetic nature. In addition, the cabin features completely new sports seats, inspired by fighter jets, front and rear, to increase comfort and provide more support during high-speed cornering.

The new Ford Ranger Raptor continues this legacy with a specially designed vehicle that balances daily tasks with unprecedented performance on a Ranger-sized pickup.