Ford Ranger Raptor

Sandicliffe Ford at Nottingham 26th January 2019

Informed of the launch of the new Ford Ranger Raptor at Sandicliffe, we just had to have a look.

Our experience of Sandicliffe is that we are made welcome, and the staff are always chatty and welcoming.
​We were quickly pointed in the direction of the new Raptor.

The new Raptor is all about off-road performance and ability.

Ranger Raptor

Standard 2018 Ranger 3,2

The new Raptor stands out against the standard Ranger. When we test drove the Ranger, we were impressed. When compared to other Utility vehicles, the Ranger performed favourably and we can easily see the upgrades the Raptor offers.
We were surprised that at the moment it is only being made available with a 210bhp diesel engine, which although smaller than the standard 2.2l or the 3.2l in the standard Ranger, provides more performance than the older engine design. In the days of expensive diesel and the current dislike for diesel pollution, I would expect an alternative petrol engine to be available for Europe.
Although, almost all its competitors are also diesel, so maybe it's not quite so strange a selection.
​Compared with one of its direct rivals, the Isuzu D'Max Arctic Trucks AT35 which we have also test driven, it not only looks like it was specifically designed for the intended work, it also looks more robust. The AT35 looks mean, but also looks like a modified, if upgraded standard D'Max, whereas the Raptor looks factory made and original in design.
​The Isuzu has only 165bhp so the 210bhp for the Raptor is actually pretty good.

Inside the Raptor
The seats have car comfort, and with the new 10 speed automatic, it will be a very relaxing drive. The Raptor is designed to excel in off road work and comes with several selectable modes. With the push of a button, you can choose from six different modes for different terrain: Normal mode, Sport mode, Grass, Gravel and Snow mode, Mud and Sand mode, Rock mode, and off-road performance - Baja mode. The suspension is also re-designed and upgraded to provide improved grip through its large tyres and a better, more protected ride for the driver.
The controls are standard Ford.

---

I think the only downside is the load carrying capacity of 640kg and also a low towing weight of only 2.7 tonne compared to others at 3.5 tonne.
All my quoted capacities are from the current US model and things could change on the final import model. The model we viewed at Sandicliffe was a LHD and no prices or delivery dates have been released yet, though they anticipate if you place an order at a dealership, you could possibly expect delivery for May/June.