As we already predicted, the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor debuted in Thailand. The performance-oriented truck is coming only to the Asian market, according to current plans. Whatsoever, it could appear in the US soil also. Furthermore, with its diesel engine, it will hardly meet requirements of regulations in North America.
Nevertheless, it still doesn’t make this pickup less exciting. The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor is different than a base truck that made a return to the US market. It brings more power and comes with unique styling. There are many pros and cons if we want a detailed report. Here, we will try to point to main advantages of this pickup truck.
Performance
If you are happy with the output of regular truck, then this is not a topic for you. However, no one can ignore much more power coming from the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor. For example, the vehicle we saw in Detroit during the last NAIAS, will be able to deliver a nice amount of energy, although the company didn’t release official numbers. The Raptor version for Australia and some other Asian countries are getting an engine with 210 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. Extra pounds of twisting power will be especially helpful on the toughest terrain. Nevertheless, there are other helpful features for outskirts.
2019 Ford Ranger Raptor On-Road Drive Modes
The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor will borrow Terrain Management System from its bigger and more famous sibling, F-150. With it, drivers will be able to select the most suitable drive mode, depending on terrain and weather conditions. There are a total of 6 modes. Two of them are for road, and the rest is for an off-road ride. On the asphalt, we are getting Normal mode by default. Drivers will select Sport mode for smoother and faster transmission. Downshifting is also more aggressive.
Off-Road Drive Modes
On slippery terrains, drivers will be able to pick up Snow/Gravel/Grass mode, depending on the situation. With it, the truck will start from the second gear to avoid spinning the wheels on these surfaces. When you need opposite ratio of power and torque, there is Mud/Sand mode. Then, Ranger Raptor will maximize torque, while keeping the shifts very low. For a better low-speed crawling, there is a Rock mode. The most exciting selection is Baja mode. If you want to run very fast off the road, then this is the right setup. It picks up shifting from Sport on-road mode and minimizes traction.
Diesel Drivetrain
Lovers of diesel engines will definitely love the selection of 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor. It is a 2.0-liter unit. We already mentioned its output. However, this twin-turbo mill will pair two turbochargers to minimize lag. Ford is using the new 10-speed auto transmission as a power router. The same gearbox will come for base Ranger in the US.
2019 Ford Ranger Raptor Off-Road Packages
The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor will be specialized for the off-road ride. Not only because of drive modes but also packages added to the model. Fox Racing Shox and rear coilovers are not so great on the road as they work on other terrains. Same is with BF tires. Furthermore, Raptor will get underbody protection and tow hooks.
Size
Yes, the performance of the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor is stunning. But what about the look? This model is wider and higher than the base truck. It adds almost a feet in width. Also, lift kit allows the ground clearance of 11 inches. This is 2 inches more than standard Ranger has.
Perfect Angles
If you go for off-roading, then you need a perfect setup for your truck. The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor doesn’t need special attention here. Its approach angle is set at 32.5 degrees. Departure and the breakover angle is 24 degree.
US Release
The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor is a truck for Asia Pacific market. Thai and Australian buyers will be first to get this model. However, it won’t take too long before it hits US market. But, before this happens, engineers will have to develop a new drivetrain. This diesel is not possible in North America, so Raptor will have to come with some special petrol unit.