The Ford Ranger Raptor 2.0L Diesel – The new fun toy

The Raptor has become incredibly popular here in Jamaica, a market that clearly appreciates its robust capabilities and assertive presence. What surprised me, however, was a conversation I had with a sales representative at the local dealership, Kingston Industrial Garage Ltd. He mentioned that the 3.0-litre petrol V6 version of the Raptor outsells the less expensive and more fuel-efficient 2.0-litre turbo diesel model. This indicates that for many Jamaican buyers, the Raptor isn't merely a utility vehicle; it is the ultimate recreational machine, a statement of intent for those who seek adventure and high-performance thrills.

To understand the Raptor's position, it is helpful to consider the Ford Ranger line-up. It starts with the utilitarian Ranger, designed as a workhorse. Moving up, you find the Ranger XLT, which adds more creature comforts and features. The Wildtrak then elevates the experience with more premium touches and enhanced capability, bridging the gap towards the top tier. And then there is the Raptor, a distinct model engineered by Ford Performance, setting itself apart with its dedicated off-road focus.

Outside the Vehicle: A Purposeful Stance

Stepping up to the Ranger Raptor, its presence is immediately evident. The ride height is substantially increased compared to a regular Ranger, a clear indication of its off-road prowess. The side step rails are not just for aesthetics; they are functional, aiding entry and exit due to that elevated stance. The wheel arches are noticeably flared, and the added wheel fenders further enhance this bold, wide look, accommodating the larger, more aggressive tyres.

The front fascia is particularly striking, dominated by a prominent grille featuring the bold 'FORD' lettering, leaving no doubt about its lineage. The distinctive reverse 'C' shaped LED headlights give it a modern and aggressive gaze. Along the body panels, the character lines are purposeful, hinting at the underlying strength and engineering. At the rear, the design reinforces the vehicle's sturdy nature, with prominent taillights and a robust bumper.

One feature that genuinely impressed me was the load bed's retractable canopy. Controlled conveniently by a button on the dashboard or the key fob, it provides both privacy and security for anything you're carrying. This is a practical addition that adds to the vehicle's versatility, especially when transporting valuable items or simply keeping your gear out of sight.

In comparison to the standard Ford Ranger, the Raptor is a different animal altogether. While both share a fundamental platform, the Raptor boasts a wider track, significantly enhanced suspension components, and a more aggressive body styling that isn't merely cosmetic; it is integral to its off-road capability. The Raptor's stance, with its elevated ride height and broader footprint, clearly differentiates it as a performance pickup, built for more extreme terrain than its Ranger siblings.

Interior: A Cabin Designed for Adventure

Inside, the Ranger Raptor offers a surprisingly spacious cabin. The centrepiece is undoubtedly the gigantic, tablet-like touchscreen infotainment system, which is intuitive to use and remarkably responsive. The red accents around the air-conditioning vents and the contrasting stitching on the seats add a touch of flair, subtly hinting at the vehicle's performance-oriented nature.

The audio experience is elevated by a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, delivering crisp and immersive sound, whether you are navigating challenging trails or cruising on the motorway. Storage is thoughtfully integrated throughout, with multiple compartments for drinks, including a clever retractable one positioned conveniently below the air-conditioning vent next to the door. The vertical orientation of the air-conditioning vents is a smart design choice, effectively distributing airflow throughout the elongated cabin. Further storage is found under the armrest and above the glove box, providing ample space for personal items. Practicality extends to the rear, where the seats can be folded up, creating a substantial amount of additional storage space for larger items.

Driving Experience: Power and Precision on and Off-Road

Despite it not being the higher-spec model, the 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine of the Ford Ranger Raptor delivers its power in an assertive manner. With 210 horsepower and 368.781 lb-ft of torque, this is unequivocally a performance pickup. The 10-speed automatic transmission handles the power delivery smoothly and efficiently, allowing the engine to operate within its optimal range.

On one occasion, navigating a winding road around Junction, St Mary, a vehicle ahead stopped abruptly at a corner. I was thoroughly impressed by the Forward-Collision Warning system, which automatically activated the brakes, making a significant difference in preventing a potential incident. This active safety feature certainly instils confidence.

The Raptor truly shines in its handling and suspension. Equipped with a specialised performance duty suspension, it effortlessly absorbs bumps and uneven terrain. While I doubt many owners will be taking this machine to the farm for daily chores, its capabilities are clearly geared at fun and adventure rather than pure practicality. The driving experience is complemented by intelligent lighting; the headlights turn with the steering, and an additional side light is activated when the steering turns in that direction. This significantly enhances visibility during night driving, especially on our tight, winding Jamaican roads.

It is worth noting the key difference in off-road capabilities between the 2.0-litre and 3.0-litre models. The 3.0-litre variant offers both front and rear differential locking, providing maximum traction in extreme off-road scenarios. The 2.0-litre model, while still highly capable, allows for only the rear differential to be locked. Furthermore, the 3.0-litre version provides exclusive features such as adjustable steering stiffness, adaptive suspension dampers, and control over the engine exhaust sound, allowing for a more customisable driving experience.

Specifications

Test unit cost: $16.8 million JMD

3.0L engine cost: $17.9 million JMD

Engine: 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel

Horsepower: 210 HP

Torque: 368.781 lb-ft (500 Nm)

Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic, 4WD

Fuel tank: 80 litres

Fuel consumption: 7.2464 km/l (approximately 13.8 L/100km)

Body Type: Pickup

Dimensions (Approximate):

Length: 5398 mm

Width: 2028 mm

Height: 1873 mm

Wheelbase: 3220 mm

Competition: Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Toyota Hilux, Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

Vehicle provided courtesy of Kingston Industrial Garage Ltd, 923-6479, sales@kigjamaica.com