Ford is bringing back the Ranger pickup truck home, but you probably know that already. However, what you don’t know for sure is that Blue Oval is also working on the high-performance model. According to the latest reports, the topper will be named the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor. However, we are not so sure whether the car manufacturer is planning to add a 450 hp strong twin-turbo engine from the F-150-based Raptor, or some other less potent EcoBoost mill.
Spy Image Via Caradvice
Judging be the spy shots we have, the new 2019 Ranger Raptor will use the same platform as for today’s model. More precisely, the Ford’s T6 body-on-frame architecture will be updated, while the high-performance version should get an upgraded suspension, bigger wheels, special off-road tires, and larger brakes for all four wheels. Ford’s engineers will not skip the chance to add special traction- and stability-control systems, locking center differential, as well as a full-time all-wheel drive.
No matter which one engine the carmaker decides to add (and we hope it will be the 3.5-liter twin-turbo), it will be mated to a new 10-speed automatic transmission. If the truck comes paired with a 450 hp V6, you can expect really impressive performance figures. Taking into account that the bigger and heavier F-150 Raptor hits 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds the smaller 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor should be able to reach 60 mph in 5 seconds or even less.
The 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor hides just the front end, which means that the truck won’t look totally different from today’s model. No, the carmaker has decided to refresh just the ends, so you can expect to see a new grille and headlights, both borrowed from the F-150 Raptor. The smaller sibling will probably get the same bumper treatment, as well as a special exhaust layout. We are not so sure, but the pickup appears to feature a bit higher ride height and definitely flared wheel arches.
Stay tuned for updates.