READY TO ROCK AND ROLL
Is the Ford Ranger Raptor V6 the best pick-up out there?
I’ll spare you the trouble of finding out. It’s a definitive yes!
Now, read more to find out why.
There’s the looks. The Ranger is arguably the biggest, tallest, burliest pick-up out there. It dwarfs most other pick-ups in its class. Parked side by side others in its segment, it looks like it belongs in the next larger category. And people love buying the Ranger precisely because its size gives them confidence.
Secondly is its heart. While everyone is still stuck with dirty diesels, the Raptor utilizes a gasoline-fed twin turbo EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 394hp and 583 Newton-Meters of torque, more than enough power to obliterate most straight-aways and out-accelerate almost everything in its sights, on or off the beaten path.
Then there’s the drivetrain. The Raptor uses the smoothest variant of Ford’s 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission. It helps make use of the power efficiently and effectively. It is then transferred to all four wheels via a switchable 2-speed transfer case that has locking front and rear differentials and an ingenious center differential with a locking clutch that allows torque to be distributed automatically and seamlessly to the axle that needs it the most, to deliver the best grip, stability and acceleration.
Then of course we have Ford’s off-road driving software. The Raptor uses a truly sophisticated Terrain Management System that features seven selectable drive modes tailored for varied local conditions. These include specialized modes like Baja for high-speed off-roading, Mud/Ruts, and Rock Crawl to handle diverse terrains.
There is also normal and sport modes attuned for smooth pavement driving. These modes optimize the various driver assistance systems to deliver maximum performance regardless of surface and conditions.
The technology continues inside with Ford’s latest Sync 4A infotainment system with a huge 12 inch LCD screen. An impressive 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system plays powerful tunes, complete with subwoofer to put you in the mood for whatever drive you have in mind. As for active safety? A 360-degree camera system is included. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) feature Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Centering, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), and Blind Spot Information System.
But the Ranger Raptor’s true piece de resistance is the 2.5-inch FOX Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks, which are considered some of the most advanced factory dampers ever fitted to a pickup truck. The Live Valve Technology feature sensors that monitor terrain conditions hundreds of times per second, adjusting damping rates in real-time to provide a comfortable ride on-road and maximum control off-road.
The shocks use Internal Bypass technology, which allows for different damping zones—softer in the middle for comfort, and firmer at the ends of the travel to handle hard impacts. A specialized feature, the shocks provide maximum damping force in the final 25% of their travel, acting as a “hydraulic bump stop” to protect the truck during severe impacts or jumps.
In total, there is an available 292mm of suspension travel in the back and 256mm up front. These long-travel shocks feature 25mm more travel than a garden variety Ranger. It may not seem much but it’s a world of difference when traction and stability are of utmost necessity. Bed Payload is kept at a lower 750kg while towing is at 2500kg. These figures are lower than a regular Ranger due to compromises made for its added performanceS
Lastly, the Ranger Raptor further impresses with an 850mm flood wading depth, a 24.2 degree break-over angle, and a 33 degree approach and 24.6 departure angles respectively. Impressive numbers all around. But numbers never tell the whole story.
So, we took it to the dry riverbeds and dirt roads around the Sacobia River. And the Raptor handled the speed and terrain flawlessly! It soaked up all the bumps and ruts with ease and confidence, and the Fox suspension was super smooth!
On the highway, the Raptor drives more like a sports sedan than a pick-up truck! Super fast, super smooth, and crucially, the Raptor felt responsive, nimble and aggressive on tarmac as it did on the rough stuff. The brakes are more than a match for the engine as it stops on the proverbial dime too!
After the long drive through traffic home, you also feel less tired in the Raptor because the V6 is buttery smooth compared to a typical 4-cylinder diesel.
The price for all this goodness? 2.7 km / liter hammering it around the rough stuff, 4km / liter in the city and 9km / liter on the highway keeping my foot off the throttle as much as possible. Plus the Php2,799,000 SRP.
It’s expensive, but given its performance credentials, the Raptor represents very good value!
