Why do I want a Ford Ranger Raptor?

As journalists specialized in automotive, it is common to be the service for resolving doubts in our environment, but there is no definitive answer aboutthe perfect vehicle. He budget, regular use and environmental label necessary are the first attributes that we must know and, despite being an aspirational car for many, the Ford Ranger Raptor It is also the right and coherent choice for a few.

Its off-road and cargo capabilities put it at the top of the list of professionals related to complicated terrain, but also occupies the minds of those looking for an adult toy. This article is indicated for the latter, since, since we have tested its 205 HP diesel variant, we are part of that group.

The main obstacle is economic, because with a starting price of 73,226 euros we could not get one, even if we had a larger garage. And the size is another con on the list of inconveniences for our daily lives. Park a Raptor 5,036 m long, 1.92 m high and 2.02 m wide is no easy task in Spain, which still preserves squares from the Peltilla era. Logically, whoever is looking for a pick-up will have the space to store it safely or, possibly, an entire property where they can park without thinking about it.

Parking on the street is a challenge, but it can also give you moments of guilty pleasure as you watch people notice him. It is not for less. This unique variant on the market It is developed by Ford Performance and is not satisfied with being big. He Raptor looks even more imposing and daring than any of its range siblings, so we will review the aesthetic touches that achieve that effect.

The design is the main culprit for the impact generated by the tested unit, with distinctive details such as the specific bumper and black grill with FORD letters in the same color. This tone is repeated in the widened wheel arches, as well as in some air vents on the hood that show the performance spirit of Ford Performance’s contribution. The rear follows the radical line with a black tow ball and the spare wheel hidden in the bottom.

The metal sills make it easier to access the interior, but also add a spicy touch at first glance. The cabin is distinguished from other Rangers by the red stitching on the dashboard, seats and steering wheel, as well as the quality of the materials used and the leather. The Raptor name is present on the ring, which we also find on the headrest and the door frame. Above the front seats we find a aviation type button module for the electrical system of additional accessories such as roof or front lights, removable coolers, slings, etc.

But the key to the evolution of this generation of Ranger, and therefore the Raptor, is the presence of a technological package worthy of a premium SUV. In the screens section, we find the 12.4 inch instrumentation with computer graphics of the latest generation and a welcome show that makes your hair stand on end. The central screen, on the other hand, is 12 inches and runs SYNC 4A operating systemcompatible with AApple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly. I especially liked the air conditioning in the lower area of ​​the surface, which is repeated in an analog way just below it, and the sound system signed by B&O.

We cannot forget the essence of a Ford Ranger, which lies in complicity with those who require off-road qualities and loading capacity in their daily lives. In this new batch, which shares many of its components with the Volkswagen Amarok, we find a Raptor that is more 4×4 than ever and with a larger cargo area.

The Loading Zone It is wider than before and, as a novelty, it has a useful electric blind to cover it. In the interior impressions section there is more information about the cabin and cargo area. Measures 1.22 m wide and 1.56 high, with a height of 53 centimeters and the option of being protected by a roller and electric blind. Inside we find LED lights and two 12 and 240V power outlets. Additionally, the Raptor has a towing capacity of 2,500 kilograms.

Checking account numbers do not only affect the purchase and with 11.7 l/100 kilometers of consumption after the test of the model 205 hp diesel, I don’t want to imagine the cost of maintaining the V6 gasoline. Certainly, the 2.5 tons of weight of this Raptor are noticeable when moving it, but, with 500 Nm of maximum torque and traction systems, This pick-up doesn’t even blink when it comes to overcoming any obstacle.

This variant has the 90 millimeters wider tracks than his range brothers and his ground clearance is 265 millimeters. However, it is its Ford Performance additives that make it a different story. The suspension is made of steel and the FOX Live Valve shock absorbers They completely modify the behavior of the Raptor on asphalt and on fast off-road trails. Also specific are some reinforcements in the chassis, the front shock absorber turrets, rear supports and a steel bottom plate that protects the underbody.

With all this, you can enter the most complicated off-road routes in the world, being a complete novice, thanks to its traction system and driving modes. The first of them now has a central differential that is responsible for the 4H and 4L modes (low gears or reducer)in addition to having the all-wheel drive for asphalt or the option of send torque to rear axle (2WD mode). The lockable front and rear differentials are maintained from the previous model.

The driving modes They act on the throttle response, the 10 speed gearbox, the harshness of the steering, traction, ABS and even the sound of the engine:

Throughout our lives we are faced with countless “correct decisions” that involve giving up certain risks and mistakes. Logically, with a 90% urban lifestyle, tOwning a Ford Ranger Raptor is nonsense, but what would life be without that bit of madness? Of course, fun both on and off the unpaved trails has a price and it is just over 73,226 euros for the tested unit.

Not only that, in my dreams driving a Raptor too would sacrifice a stable and fast cornering. Even more so if we mount the All-Terrain tires of this version, which also do not help when braking the vehicle. Nor would it have the most comfortable vehicle in the world, even though Its soundproofing has been significantly improved. and you can no longer hear certain plastics colliding with each other.

For a week I have used it as a vehicle for everything and, except for the difficulty of parking it without disturbing others and its imprecise steering, I have been able to go about my daily life without problems. Even I have traveled to Salamanca and Ávilawith the suitcases in the back seats and a good scare when refueling its 80 liter capacity tank.