Ford has taken the wraps of a bigger, boofier version of the Ranger utility that takes its cues from the US F150 Raptor.
The ultimate Ranger is purposefully designed, built and tested to set a benchmark as the only factory-built performance truck across Asia-Pacific, Ford says.
It’s powered by an all-new 2.0-litre twin turbo diesel that delivers 157kW of power and 500Nm of torque, together with a 10-Speed transmission.
There’s six all-terrain drive modes from which to choose and if that’s not enough, it even comes with paddle shifters.
If you think Ford is excited about this one, then you’d be absolutely right.
The Ranger has been a tearaway success for the company and the Raptor is poised to crank it up to another level.
A stunning new grille looks like it has been lifted straight from big brother, the F-150 Raptor that is not sold here.
Standing an impressive 1873mm tall, 2180mm wide and 5398mm long, it has wider 1710mm front and rear tracks.
Ground clearance is up to 283mm, while the approach angle of 32.5 degrees, ramp over angle of 24 degrees, and departure angle of 24 degrees gives dirt hounds plenty to work with.
The cool side steps have been designed specifically to prevent rock spray from hitting the rear of the truck, with holes to drain sand, mud or snow.
The chassis itself is unique, designed to allow the vehicle to travel at high speeds off road and endure the punishment that off road racing dishes out, with testing here and overseas..
At the business end the 1560mm x 1743mm tray has been designed with the weekend explorer in mind, while a 2500kg tow capacity to handle dirt bikes or jet-skis, as well as traditional work needs.
Inside, the seats are specially designed for off-road, high speed performance support, allowing the driver to engage in enthusiastic handling, while still delivering superior on-road comfort.
The front guards are constructed of composite material, designed to be resistant to the dents and scrapes normally associated with off-road use.
Their flared shape accommodates the long travel suspension and oversized tyres — all-terrain BF Goodrich 285/70 R17 rubber specially developed for the car.
No word yet on price or when the rig is coming, but we’re led to believe it will be around $80K and will get here later in the year – so let’s ay another $20 grand on top of a Wildtrak?