2019 Ford Ranger Raptor: beneath the skin

BEHIND that bold front end and under the bulging rear quarter panels, Ford has seriously beefed up the chassis and suspension of its T6-based Ranger Raptor.

From the reinforced chassis rails to the bespoke Fox Racing shock absorbers and coil-over suspended multi-link rear end, this beast is made to take on the toughest tracks at speed.

We take a look under the metal and composite body work for a closer look and speak to Jamal Hameedi, Global Performance Vehicle Chief Engineer, Ford Motor Company, about what makes it so special.

If you’re ever stuck in a pub or campfire argument with your local ‘expert’ who reckons “The Raptor is just a lifted Ranger”, here are 10 key differences between this desert monster and the stock Ranger.

1. 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine – unique to Raptor (at time of writing)

2. 10-speed auto.

3. It’s loaded with the latest version of Ford’s Terrain Management System and now has ‘Baja’ mode – the perfect excuse to indulge your inner desert racer persona.

4. Fox internal bypass shocks – designed and developed specifically for Raptor.

5. 50mm increase in ride height from standard.

6. Significantly stronger frame/chassis.

7. Wider track.

8. Disc brakes front and rear.

9. Raptor-only version of Watts link rear suspension setup.

10. It’s called Raptor. ’Nuff said…

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