Ford recently pulled the wraps off the Ranger Raptor
and we’re starting to learn more about a possible US variant. According to Car
and Driver, the off-road focused truck will probably make its way to America
sometime in the future. There’s no word on when but the magazine believes the
model will have a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine when and if it lands
stateside.
The engine produces 335 hp and 514 Nm of torque in the Edge ST and this should make it significantly more
powerful than the standard Ranger which will use a 2.3-liter EcoBoost
four-cylinder engine.
The V6 would also outgun the twin-turbo 2.0-liter
diesel engine which is found in the international Ranger Raptor. In that model,
the mill develops 210 hp and 500 Nm of torque. If the
Ranger Raptor does indeed come stateside, we’re probably in for a bit of a
wait. The standard model recently debuted at the North American International
Auto Show and won’t go on sale until early next year.
However, the wait could be worth it as the truck
features an aggressive design that is heavily influenced by the F-150 Raptor.
Starting up front, there’s a familiar “FORD” grille which resides above an
aggressive bumper with LED fog lights. The model has also been equipped with
extended wheel arches, recovery hooks, and stylish wheels shod in off-road
rubber.
Styling is just part of the package as more
meaningful changes occur beneath the skin. Highlights include an upgraded
braking system, Fox Racing Shox dampers, and a new coilover rear suspension
that uses a Watt’s link setup.
Thanks to these and other tweaks, the Ranger Raptor
has 32.5° and 24° approach / departure angles as well as 283 mm of
ground clearance.