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Even though most of the Rangers sold on the Australian market are standard versions designed to tow, carry and be dependable workhorses for various businesses, the Ranger Raptor is the top model everybody wants. It is easy to see why. After all, it is best equipped, most potent, fastest and most aggressive looking. It is designed to cross the deserts at high speed, jump sand dunes and deliver an almost sports car driving experience on the trail. The Ranger Raptor was the first high-performance Ute offered on the Australian market, and it caused a sensation when the first generation was released. Now in 2022, there is a next-gen Ranger Raptor on sale, and Ford has really set the standards with this model. Apart from the new design, there is a host of new technology, off-road dedicated parts and components and brand new and immensely powerful engine. So, here is all you need to know about the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor.
The 2023 Ranger Raptor is slightly bigger than its predecessor, with an overall length of 5360 mm, a width of 2208 mm and a height of 1926 mm. Compared to the regular Raptor, it is significantly broader and taller due to a wider track and 17-inch wheels with massive BF Goodrich K02 High-Performance tyres. The wheelbase is the same as the standard Ranger at 3270 mm between the axles. However, since this is a dedicated off-road performance machine, a couple more figures are worth mentioning. First, a ground clearance which is 272 mm and ensures that the 2023 Ranger Raptor will go over any obstacles. Second, the wading depth is impressive, 850 mm, which means that Raptor can go through some really deep waters. The 2022 Ranger Raptor weighs 2413 kg, more than the standard Ranger due to additional parts and specific components and has a fuel tank of 80 litres, like the rest of the models in the Ranger lineup.
Although anybody who saw the pictures of the 2023 Ranger Raptor knows that this thing is super-Ute, the real proof is the spec sheet which shows us just how unique this model is. First, let’s discuss the performance and next-gen Ranger Raptor that has sports car acceleration figures. The 0 to 100 km/h sprint takes only 5.5 seconds, courtesy of a very powerful, twin-turbo petrol engine. Compared to the previous generation Raptor, which had a diesel unit, the next-gen Raptor is insanely quick! It isn’t the Mustang GT, but it is not far off. The top speed has not yet been revealed, but we can expect that the 2023 Ford Raptor will be able to achieve at least 180 km/h, even though the top speed is not a significant parameter for this kind of vehicle.
Image via RangerMods Instagram
Despite all of its high-performance potential, Ford claims that Raptor’s average fuel consumption is just 11.5 litres of petrol per 100 km. One more critical piece of information for those who want to use the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor as its designers intended is that it has 32/27/24 degree angles (approach, departure, ramp over). The tow rating is significantly lower than the standard Ranger at 2,500 kg (braked), and the payload is 708 kg.
The all-new Ranger interior is filled with modern features and ergonomically-pleasing design. Ford Ranger Raptor, as the top grade, Ford prepared numerous unique features, details and trim pieces. The leather-accented seats have a heating option for the front row and a special Raptor logo on the backrests. The rear privacy glass is standard, as well as ambient lighting. Dual-zone climate control is standard, along with a new control display in front of the driver (12-inches) and a big infotainment display on the central console (12-inch). The Apple Car Play and Android Auto are part of the package, but Raptor gets a premium 10-speaker audio system as standard. Interestingly, the Raptor interior has red-coloured inserts on the dash to make things more dynamic and remind you that you are in a high-performance vehicle.
The engine is probably the most exciting part of the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor. The previous model had a decent but not very fast 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel; however, Ford went for the petrol power and introduced a particular engine for the next-gen model. Under the hood lies a 3.0-litre, twin-turbo V6 from Explorer ST which delivers 292 kW and 583 Nm of torque. With such firepower and a full-time 4x4 drivetrain, the 2023 Ranger Raptor is very capable on and off-road. Interestingly, an anti-lag system is available when the driver engages in Baja mode, which keeps the turbochargers spinning for longer, providing better throttle response and improved driving dynamics. The 10-speed automatic gearbox shifts quick and precise, which helps the performance.
The 2023 Ranger Raptor comes standard with three normal and four off-road driving modes. Interestingly, there are three modes for active exhaust and you can have your Raptor quiet or loud and aggressive for those high-speed desert runs. This model also features front and rear locking differentials, which are essential for any serious off-road use. However, the most important is unique suspension components, including FOX 2.5-inch Live valve internal bypass shock absorbers.
As a top-of-the-line model, the 2023 Ranger Raptor has a whole bunch of upscale comfort and safety features. Apart from a comfortable interior, nicely laid out dash and seats, Raptor owners will find a premium audio system, alarm with motion and vehicle inclination sensors, active park assist system, tailgate ruler, ambient lighting, and parking sensors front and rear. Of course, a unique front grille sets the Raptor apart from other Ranger models. The part of the package is Matrix LED headlamps auto dynamic levelling with LED daytime running lights.
Image via RangerMods Instagram
In terms of safety, the 2023 Ranger Raptor has the complete list of available systems, which include intelligent adaptive cruise control, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) incorporating ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist, Load Adaptive Control, Roll Over Mitigation, Traction Control and Trailer Sway Control. The package includes a 360-degree camera system, traffic sign recognition system and tyre pressure monitoring system.
Since the 2023 Raptor is a superb vehicle that is sure to capture the attention of any car fan, Ford deliberately provided buyers with a wide range of available colours. The base colour is Artic White, followed by Meteor Gray, Aluminium Silver and darker Conquer Gray. Ford expects that Sedona Orange and Code Orange will be popular options, and traditional Ford blue is also marketed as Blue Lightning, which is a very excellent option. At the end of the scale, there is also Shadow Black which will make your 2023 Ranger Raptor look especially menacing. On any chosen colour, buyers can add the Raptor Decal pack, which enhances the look of this pickup.
The world of 2023 Ranger Raptor accessories is very interesting since numerous companies will offer various visual and technical upgrades immediately after the release of this model. In terms of technical aftermarket components, even though the Raptor is enormously capable, we are sure that lift kits, bigger tyres, brakes and suspension components will be available along the side steps, rock sliders, winches and other off-road dedicated parts. Also, the light bars, spotters and other accessories are must-haves for any Raptor owner. However, although the stock model is very powerful and fast, it will be interesting to see if the independent tuners can come up with performance chips, intakes and exhaust parts that will make the next-gen Ranger Raptor even faster on and off-road.
The 2023 Ranger Raptor has been shown to press in pre-production form in May 2022, with an official release date set for August this year. The dealers have already been taking orders for this highly sought-after model, with first deliveries set for later this year. You can see the brand new 2023 Ranger Raptors in your local Ford dealership right now.
Seeing the specs and knowing just how much engineering and effort went into creating this awesome machine guarantees that the asking price will not be low. As expected, the 2023 Ranger Raptor is an expensive kit for demanding owners ready to pay the $85,490 base price. Adding optional colours ($650), decal kit ($500) and tax will exceed the $90,000 drive-away price. However, even though it is a substantial sum and over $6000 more than the outgoing model, it is quite a better vehicle than the previous Raptor and worth every penny.
Life-long car enthusiast, an experienced car journalist, blogger, classic car expert, and avid collector of all things automotive. Always on the lookout for innovative automotive tech, exciting barn finds, and twisty scenic route for that perfect early-morning drive.
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