The North American public is still waiting for the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor to arrive. The vehicle has been introduced overseas, but the performance version of the mid-size pickup truck is not going to be the same everywhere. Let’s be more precise: the rest of the world will get this diesel model, which has been shown in Thailand, while the U.S.-specs Ranger Raptor is going to use a gasoline engine. These are the official words of Jamal Hameedi, Ford Performance chief vehicle engineer.
Outside of North America, the potential buyers will be able to get the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor powered by a 2.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-4 diesel engine. The oil-chugging option will be able to deliver 210 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. 4-wheel-drive is standard here and gets the power via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Regardless the fact it’s smaller than the F150 Raptor, the high-performance Ranger will also have a 6-mode driving selector. In another word, the drivers will have Baja sand racing mode available as well.
As for the U.S.-specs 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor, well, even though it’s not confirmed yet, the vehicle is going to be mated to one of Eco Boost units. We are betting on the 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6. The unit currently delivers 325 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of twist, which is more than enough for the truck’s needs. Still, Ford might surprise us all with a 2.3-liter turbo four. The option originally produces 310 hp and 320 lb-ft, but we think that the carmaker could try with a more potent version that pumps out 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet. Either way, the engine will be exclusively paired with a 10-speed auto and 4-wheel-drive.
The 2019 Ranger Raptor shares pretty much everything with its bigger brother. The vehicle sports the same exterior treatment, including black grille and wide fenders. Let’s not forget that the smaller brother has managed to steal the shoes from the F150 Raptor. Yes, the mid-size Raptor is also using BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires.
According to Ford, ground clearance has been increased to 11 inches. The carmaker has pushed the approach angle to 32.5 degrees, while the departure angle and ramp over angle are exactly 24 degrees. The underbody protection is not here just to protect the truck, but it also deflects obstacles. Guess what? Watts Link rear suspension and extended-travel Fox Racing shocks are standard here while the pickup features 13 inches long ventilated steel discs as well.
