The Ford Ranger made a big impression after its return to America despite being based on ancient technology. An all-new 2022 Ranger has just been launched in Australia, and with that, we should also get a new dune-blasting Raptor version as well, which promises to be better than ever.
The 2023 Raptor mid-size truck has already been spotted undergoing testing. And using those spy photos, the Russian website Kolesa managed to put these double renderings together. We believe they accurately depict what the finished product will look like, just like they did with the Toyota Sequoia last week.
They’re based on the real Wildtrack trim level, which already appears to have that off-road DNA. Speaking of that, it’s amazing how much the baby Raptor has in common with its normal-sized F-150 Raptor cousin, not to mention the hot Bronco. But that’s to be expected, not only for design reasons but also engineering ones.
The Ranger is based on the new T6.2 platform, shared with the Bronco. In Australia, two powertrains have been confirmed which might also be offered in Europe. There’s a 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel and a bigger 3.0L Power Stroke V6. Over in the states, the normal pickup should have the 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo and the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, offering 270 and 310 hp, respectively.
But if you’re concerned with the Ranger Raptor, that should have a 3.0-liter EcoBoost. It’s pretty much confirmed by the Bronco Raptor’s powertrain, which includes the 10-speed familiar to F-150 buyers and a 400 horsepower power rating.
The design looks so nice you’d buy it just to have it sitting in the driveway. It’s got the angry grille with extra lights, the silver down at the bottom, fender flares, and big wheels Ford will also make it sound good with an exhaust that can do pops and crackles on command.
The interior will be miles better than the old Ranger, probably the best of any smaller truck. Features will include a portrait-style 12.1-inch screen with Sync 4, a set of Recaro seats, B&O sound system, and a surround-view camera.
The 2023 Ford Range Raptor will be revealed in February (in America). It should start from under $50,000, but dealers will obviously ask extra. Rivals include the Colorado ZR2, Nissan Frontier PRO-4X and the ever-popular Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.
