The F-150 Raptor has been prowling the roads of the United States for 12 years. Just a few weeks ago, we learned that the Bronco Raptor would be available later this year. Now Ford is adding another Raptor model to the lineup: the 2023 Raptor Ranger.
Under the Hood
The new Ranger Raptor is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter that produces 392 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. That’s just over 100 more horsepower than the current Ranger, and most midsized trucks on the market, for that matter.
The Ranger Raptor features a 10-speed transmission, and Ford has noted that each of those gears will have its own turbocharging boost profile. This should ensure drivers get the best performance out of the 3.0 and 10-speed.
READ MORE: The 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor Is the Beefiest Bronco Yet
The performance features don’t end there. The electronically-controlled active exhaust system provides for selectable engine sound profiles. The Quiet mode is self-explanatory. It prioritizes quietness over performance. The Normal setting is intended for everyday use and provides some auditory presence without being too loud. Sport mode offers a more audible and dynamic tone. Lastly, Baja Mode is described as a striking profile in both volume and note. The official release notes that this mode is intended for off-road use only, which is likely the professional way to say it sounds awesome.
Built for Hard Use
Structurally the new next-gen Ranger Raptor features a number of Raptor-specific mounts and reinforcements on the C-pillar, load box, and spare wheel. The jounce bumper, shock tower, and rear shock bracket are also reinforced so that the Ranger Raptor can soak up the abuse that comes along with hard off-road driving.
Of course, the Ranger Raptor wouldn’t have the Raptor monicker if it didn’t feature a great suspension. The next-generation Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve bypass shocks adapt to changing road and trail conditions in real-time. The new shocks are filled with Teflon-infused oil. This reduces friction by 50% when compared to the previous generation. The Live Valve system is linked to the selectable drive modes to provide the best performance possible across a wide variety of conditions.
The Teflon isn’t the only innovative part of the Live Valve shocks. They also feature Fox’s Bottom-Out Control that maximizes dampening in the last 25% of shock travel. The system can also stiffen the rear dampeners to improve vehicle stability when under hard acceleration.
Of course, without some trail-ready protection, you can’t take full advantage of the Ranger Raptor’s capability. The front bash plate is made from 2.3mm-thick high-strength steel. This plate, combined with the engine undershield and the transfer case shield, protects key components while on the trail.
Off-Road Ready
The next-generation Ranger Raptor will feature full-time four-wheel drive with an electronic-controlled two-speed transfer case, a first for the platform. This system is paired with front and rear locking differentials, further expanding the off-road capability of the Ranger Raptor.
The truck also features several selectable drive modes for bother on- and off-road.
On-road
- Normal – prioritizes comfort and fuel efficiency
- Sport – a more responsive on-road driving mode
- Slippery – improves confidence on slippery or uneven surfaces
Off-road
- Rock crawl – for optimum control in very low-speed driving over rocky and uneven terrain
- Sand – optimizes gearchanges and power delivery for progress in sand and deep snow
- Mud/Ruts – for maximum grip during launch and maintaining vehicle momentum
- Baja – sets all systems to maximum attack for peak high-speed off-road performance
Each of these drive modes adjusts elements of the engine, transmission performance, ABS sensitivity, traction control, exhaust valve actuation, and throttle response to meet the needs of the particular situation.
As if all of these features didn’t demonstrate the off-road prowess of the new Ranger Raptor, it also features Trail Control. This is essentially cruise control customized to off-road conditions. The driver only has to select a speed under 20 miles per hour, and the Trail Control system manages braking and acceleration.
Redesigned, Inside & Out
The Ranger Raptor has all new looks to match the upgrades to the powertrain and suspension. Sporting Ford’s C-clamp headlight design, flared wheel arches, and bold grill lettering, the all-new Ranger Raptor is a strong departure from the last generation, with plenty of design cues taken from the Raptor F-150.
The front clip isn’t only updated in terms of looks. With Matrix LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, predictive curve lighting, and auto dynamic leveling, the illumination capabilities of the Ranger Raptor are absolutely cutting edge.
The overall styling matches the high-performance build with an emphasis on widening the truck. The flared fenders frame 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires exclusive to the Ranger Raptor. With functional vents, aero features, and cast aluminum side steps, it’s obvious that the design team was focusing on function in all aspects of the build.
The interior has also received plenty of updates with a 12-inch portrait orientation screen, an all-digital instrument cluster, a dash-mounted grab bar, and color accent panels. The Ranger Raptor will feature Ford’s new-generation SYNC 4A connectivity and entertainment system that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Overlanding Options
With these initial details, it’s easy to see the Ranger Raptor as an excellent midsized overlanding rig. With lockers, a cutting edge suspension, and a more than adequate powertrain, the Ranger Raptor should be able to tackle obstacles. The well-designed interior and customization for on and off-road travel will make long trips over a mixed terrain a breeze. The current generation is a popular choice for overlanders, and this one seems to only build on the capability of current offerings.
While an official release date hasn’t been announced, the all-new Ranger Raptor is slated to hit the U.S. in 2023. With the promised specs and the hype the Raptor name brings, we expect it to be a regular sighting in the backcountry in no time at all.
