Automaker 101 teaches us that you simply first introduce the mainstream variant after which wait a number of months earlier than unveiling the high-performance providing. Ford is fortunately throwing that logic out the window and is exhibiting the 2024 Ranger Raptor alongside the usual pickup.

Billed as the most important and baddest Ranger ever created, the Raptor was designed to be the final word mid-size truck and it’s exhausting to argue with that characterization because it combines spectacular efficiency with confirmed off-road functionality.

Beginning below the hood, there’s a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 405 hp (302 kW / 411 PS) and 430 lb-ft (582 Nm) of torque. That’s lower than the Bronco Raptor, however the truck has 95 hp (71 kW / 96 PS) greater than the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.

That’s an enormous distinction and the engine is linked to a ten-speed automated transmission, which is paired to an ordinary four-wheel drive system. Patrons may even discover entrance and rear locking differentials in addition to a two-speed switch case with a most crawl ratio of 67.88:1.

Extra: 2024 Ford Ranger Arrives In America With Ruggedly Good Seems, New 315 HP EcoBoost V6

Pictures: Michael Gauthier/CarScoops

Ford officers informed us the Ranger Raptor is extra desert runner than rock crawler, and comes geared up with a purpose-built suspension that may deal with robust terrain and excessive speeds. With a purpose to address the worst drivers can throw at it, the truck has a cast aluminum double A-arm entrance suspension with 2.5-inch Fox Stay Valve shocks. They’re joined by a Watts-link rear suspension with trailing arms and Fox Stay Valve shocks.

Ford says the shocks are “stuffed with Teflon-infused oil to cut back friction and warmth build-up for uninterrupted efficiency all day lengthy.” That isn’t their solely celebration trick as damping adjustments primarily based on the chosen drive mode. There are seven completely different settings – Regular, Tow/Haul, Sport, Slippery, Off-Highway, Rock Crawl, and Baja – and so they additionally alter the tuning of the engine, transmission, brakes, steering, throttle, and traction management system.

Getting again to the off-road upgrades, the Ranger Raptor encompasses a sturdier basis because of bolstered entrance body rails, entrance shock towers, rear shock brackets, and suspension mounting factors. The truck additionally rides on 17-inch wheels which can be wrapped in 33-inch BFGoodrich KO3 all-terrain tires. If the usual setup isn’t rugged sufficient, 17-inch beadlock succesful wheels are additionally accessible.

Photograph: Michael Gauthier/CarScoops

Because of all these adjustments, drivers will discover 10.7 inches (272 mm) of floor clearance in addition to strategy, departure, and breakover angles of 33, 26.4, and 24.2 levels. These numbers are nothing to sneeze at, however the Jeep Gladiator Mojave has 11.6 inches (295 mm) of floor clearance in addition to higher strategy and departure angles.

Sadly, the off-road upgrades add weight and cut back the truck’s workhorse functionality. Specifically, the mannequin weighs 5,325 lbs (2,415 kg) and the tow score maxes out at 5,510 lbs (2,499 kg). The payload capability additionally drops from 1,711 lbs (776 kg) to 1,411 lbs (640 kg).

Rugged Seems And Practical Upgrades

Raptors aren’t wallflowers and the Ranger Raptor continues that custom by that includes a “FORD” branded grille, a metal entrance bumper, and a silver skid plate. If these telltale indicators weren’t sufficient, the truck has widened fenders and distinctive flares because the mannequin sports activities a 3.5 inch (89 mm) wider monitor than its mainstream counterpart.

Patrons may even discover LED lighting items, distinctive entrance fender vents, and frame-mounted tow hooks. They’re joined by intensive underbody safety – together with engine, switch case and gasoline tank shields – in addition to an energetic exhaust system with Quiet, Regular, Sport, and Baja settings. Clients may even be capable to get the truck in Raptor unique colours and so they should purchase an assortment of graphic packages.

A Colourful Cabin With Perspective

Photos: Michael Gauthier/CarScoops

The particular touches proceed inside because the Raptor clothes up the in any other case bland inside with a a lot wanted splash of coloration. Code Orange accents will be discovered on the closely bolstered entrance seats, air vents, and steering wheel. The latter additionally boasts a centering mark in addition to magnesium paddle shifters.

Elsewhere, we are able to see a calmly revised dashboard, an e-shifter, and 6 upfitter switches on the overhead console. The mannequin additionally has a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12-inch infotainment system, and a B&O audio system.

The remainder of the truck largely carries over, so that you’ll discover options and choices comparable to an built-in trailer brake controller, a Zone Lighting system, and adaptive cruise management with stop-and-go. Different highlights embrace a wi-fi smartphone charger, Path Management, and a Terrain Administration System.

Begins At $56,960 And Arrives This Summer time

Whereas the Bronco Raptor begins at $85,375, the Ranger Raptor looks like a steal at $56,960 together with a $1,595 vacation spot cost. That’s definitely not low-cost, however the truck prices lower than the GMC Canyon AT4X. The mannequin can also be $21,710 cheaper than the bigger F-150 Raptor.

On condition that, the Ranger Raptor will doubtless fly off seller tons whereas Ford laughs all the best way to the financial institution. Orders open later this month and people fortunate sufficient to safe an early construct spot can count on to take supply late this summer season.