2023 Ford Ranger Raptor revealed, to be sold in the UAE & GCC

The next-generation Ford Ranger Raptor has been revealed. Developed by Ford Performance, Ranger Raptor is the performance derivative of the all-new Ranger. With smarter technology controlling the new hardware, Ranger Raptor is said to be the most advanced Ranger ever. 

The biggest news is the introduction of a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 producing up to 392 hp at 5650rpm and 583 Nm of torque at 3500rpm tuned by Ford Performance – the same engine found in the Ford Bronco Raptor. The 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine will be available in select markets on the next-gen Ranger Raptor from 2023, with market-specific details provided closer to launch.

The Ranger Raptor’s anti-lag system keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to three seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or between gears when the driver gets back on the accelerator.

Mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission – each gear is programmed with its own boost profile. With an electronically controlled active exhaust system that amplifies the engine note in four selectable drive modes (Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja), drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode

The next-gen Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to next-gen Ranger. A series of unique mounts and reinforcements, for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket all combine to ensure next-gen Ranger Raptor can handle punishing off-road conditions.

Ranger Raptor’s suspension is completely redesigned. All-new tough, lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and refined Watt’s link rear end have been designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed.

Soaking up the bumps are next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever on Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon™-infused oil that reduces friction by around 50 percent compared to those on the previous Raptor.

While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering (CAE) and real-world testing.

Linked to Ranger Raptor’s revised selectable drive modes, the Live Valve Internal Bypass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality.

In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare the Ranger Raptor for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the bypass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used, and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.

To provide protection against severe bottom outs, FOX’s race-proven Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25 percent of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability.

Ranger Raptor’s ability to tackle rough terrain is further enhanced with better underbody protection. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the standard Ranger bash plate and made from 2.3mm-thick high-strength steel. This bash plate, combined with the engine under shield and transfer case shield, provides protection for key components like the radiator, steering system, front cross member, engine sump and front differential.

For the first time, Ranger Raptor gets an advanced permanent four-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials.

Each selectable drive mode adjusts a number of elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering, throttle response, and even the instrument cluster and centre touchscreen. And depending on the mode, the colour scheme of the digital displays changes to match the mode.

Design-wise, the flared fenders of the Ranger Raptor accommodate a choice of two muscular 17-inch wheel designs, one with beadlock capability, and each wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres. Functional vents, aero features, and new-design cast aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature link to the front, while the precision grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to aid the truck’s departure angle.

The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats – both in the front and rear – that are more supportive during high-speed cornering. A premium grade leather sports steering wheel with thumb swells, on-centre marking and cast magnesium paddle shifters completes the picture.

Ranger Raptor boasts a fully digital cabin, with high resolution 12.4-inch digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen boasting Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system, which offers both Apple and Android wireless smartphone connectivity, as well as a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The Ford Ranger Raptor will arrive in showrooms in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other GCC regions sometime next year.