Brutally Honest
Driving in South Africa is not for the faint of heart. From unpredictable gravel roads to rugged mountain passes and untamed coastal stretches, the terrain demands more than just mobility - it demands dominance. Enter the Next-Generation Ford Ranger Raptor: a performance bakkie that blends brute strength with sophisticated engineering, delivering power, precision and unmistakable presence. Whether you’re weaving through weekday traffic or forging a path through the wild, the new Raptor doesn't just adapt - it leads.
Built to Conquer, Designed to Thrill
At the core of the Ranger Raptor lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 EcoBoost petrol engine, producing an extraordinary 292kW of power and 583Nm of torque. This makes it the most powerful Ranger ever, easily eclipsing its predecessor. Backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, every shift is swift, responsive and ready to unleash raw performance, whether you’re tackling dunes in the Karoo or climbing the craggy cliffs of the Drakensberg.
Formidably Functional
Much like its avian namesake, the Raptor is designed to strike - bold and aggressive, and agile. But it’s not just about looks. Built on Ford’s robust T6 platform, the Raptor features are inforced chassis, enhanced suspension system with FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass Shocks, and 33-inch all-terrain tyres - engineered for control and comfort, even on the harshest landscapes.
Drive Modes for Every Mood (and Terrain)
With seven selectable drive modes, including Bajan (a race-inspired mode for high-speed off-roading), Mud/Ruts, Rock Crawl, and Sport, the Ranger Raptor automatically adjusts throttle response, transmission mapping, steering and traction to deliver a tailored driving experience on demand.
Inside the Beast
Despite its rugged build, the cabin is refined and driver-focused. Leather and suede-trimmed seats, orange contrast stitching, magnesium paddle shifters, and a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster speak to both comfort and control. The 12-inch portrait touchscreen with Ford SYNC 4A brings advanced connectivity, navigation, and voice command into play-keeping the driver connected even when miles from civilisation.
Signature Roar
The Raptor’s active valve exhaust system offers four exhaust modes, allowing you to control the vehicle's soundtrack. From a subdued hum to an exhilarating roar, you choose how loudly the Raptor announces its presence.
Verdict
Brutally beautiful, mechanically masterful, and engineered for the fearless, the Next Gen Ford Ranger Raptor is no longer just a utility vehicle. It’s lifestyle machinery that turns the ordinary into the extraordinary.\Whether you’re exploring backroads, climbing rugged peaks, or simply pulling up at the school gate, it delivers power with poise.
Text by Wendy Robinson
