Mzansi’s love for bakkies and SUVs keeps growing, and the trusty sedan and hatchback are taking a backseat. But when a big, powerful performance bakkie like the new Ford Ranger Raptor rolls into our garage, we’re anything but disappointed (cue the smirk).
Rugged design
The new Ranger Raptor carries forward its bold legacy, standing tall with an intimidating presence. Up front, you’ll find a large black grille sporting bold F-O-R-D lettering that’s hard to miss, paired with F-Series-inspired C-clamp headlights featuring Matrix LED and LED daytime running lights. The rear mirrors the front’s rugged style with LED taillights, a grey rear bumper with a step pad, and a high-set tow bar for an improved departure angle. Functional air vents, solid cast aluminum side steps, and 17-inch wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich all-terrain KO2 tires round out the aggressive look, making it a head-turner wherever it goes.
Modern, sporty interior
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an interior that’s more than just functional. The jet fighter-inspired sports seats in both the front and rear add comfort and support, perfect for everything from spirited drives to daily commutes. Raptor-specific touches like Code Orange accents and a leather sports steering wheel with thumb swells, a center marker, and magnesium paddle shifters emphasize the performance feel. The tech is equally impressive, featuring a 12.4-inch digital driver display and a 12-inch central touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4A, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with wireless charging. Rear passengers get USB-A and USB-C charging ports and a 400-watt inverter for 240V power in the load box. To top it off, the 10-speaker, 660W Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers an immersive audio experience.
Power and performance
Under the hood, the Ranger Raptor packs a twin-turbo 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivering a hefty 292kW and 583Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford claims this beast can hit 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds, which is mind-boggling for a 2500kg bakkie. It’s officially the fastest bakkie in Mzansi! While daily driving is smooth and manageable, switching to Sport mode turns up the volume on the exhaust for a thrilling roar. Fuel consumption can reach 16 l/100 km under heavy acceleration, but with a lighter foot, you can achieve around 12 l/100 km. Overtaking is effortless with the twin-turbo power, though watch your speed—it’s easy to go faster than intended without cruise control.
Ride comfort and off-road capability
The Ranger Raptor sets the bar high for ride comfort, though the robust tires do introduce a bit of road noise. The advanced FOX Live Valve dampers enhance both on- and off-road driving experiences, while the FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks, infused with Teflon, reduce friction by about 50% over previous models, making for a smoother, more controlled ride.
Comprehensive safety
Ford loaded the Ranger Raptor with safety tech, including Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Lane Keeping System with alerts and aids, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Evasive Steer Assist, Blind Spot Information System with Trailer Coverage, Active Park Assist 2.0, Pre-Collision Assist with Dynamic Brake Support, Forward Collision Warning, Automated Emergency Braking, Reverse Brake Assist, and Post-Collision Braking.
Final Verdict
The Ford Ranger Raptor is an impressive machine that combines comfort, power, and off-road capability. At R1,226,700, it’s a premium bakkie with an array of features, and it’s hard to beat the bragging rights of owning Mzansi’s fastest bakkie.
