Ford Unveils the 2024 Ranger Raptor: Power Meets Rugged Off-Road Capability
Ford Performance has lifted the curtains on their 2024 Ranger Raptor, presenting a redefined model that merges best-in-class power with advanced off-road capability. This latest iteration of the Ranger, brimming with technological advancements and robust design elements, is set to redefine expectations within the midsize truck segment.
Performance and Suspension: Tuned for Toughness
The Ranger Raptor's core is its purpose-built suspension system, designed to conquer rough terrains with confidence. The long-travel suspension employs a Watts linkage and trailing arms, providing control in challenging off-road conditions. The vehicle is built on the Ranger's fully boxed frame, reinforced in key areas such as front frame rails, front shock towers, and rear shock brackets to handle more punishing off-road conditions.
Further enhancing the Ranger Raptor's off-road prowess is the next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks. The damping performance of these shocks varies based on the vehicle's Drive Modes, which include Normal, Tow/Haul, Sport, Slippery, Off-Road, Rock Crawl, and Baja, developed to offer better on-road comfort, off-road control, and ride quality at various speeds.
Powertrain: A New Benchmark in Power
Beneath the hood, the Ranger Raptor boasts a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, tuned by Ford Performance to generate a best-in-class 405 horsepower (equivalent to 301 kW) and 430 pound-feet (approx. 583 Nm) of torque. This makes the 2024 Ranger Raptor the most powerful iteration of the model to date, ready to perform on a variety of terrains.
The engine is paired with a class-exclusive 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, an advanced four-wheel drive system, and an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case. These features, combined with front and rear locking differentials, provide improved off-road traction.
Design: Rugged and Functional
The 2024 Ranger Raptor sports a bold and modern design, built with purpose and functionality in mind. From LED projector headlights and signature C-clamp lighting to flared fenders with functional vents, every design element serves a purpose. It also features an all-steel bumper with integrated, frame-mounted front and rear tow hooks and aggressive 33-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain KO3 tires on 17-inch wheels.
Inside the cabin, the Raptor is built for performance. The driver's cabin features a sport steering wheel with cast magnesium alloy paddle shifters, unique Ford Performance front seats, and overhead upfitter switches for easy powering of off-road hardware. The cabin is also trimmed with premium materials in Code Orange for a distinctive touch.
Technological Features: Enhancing the Drive
The Ranger Raptor offers a suite of advanced tech features, including a 360-Degree Camera and Front View Camera for off-roading assistance, Zone Lighting for remote locations, and a Pro Trailer Backup Assist for effortless handling of boats and campers. A high-resolution 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch center touchscreen running SYNC 4A provide the driver with a seamless and intuitive control hub.
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, proudly assembled at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan, is a testament to Ford's commitment to pushing boundaries in the midsize truck segment. It's set to be available late this summer, promising to deliver unrivaled off-road performance for extreme adventure seekers.
A Proven Raptor Legacy
With the Ranger Raptor, Ford expands its Raptor family of high-performance vehicles, joining ranks with the F-150 Raptor, F-150 Raptor R, and Bronco Raptor. This addition to the lineup brings the celebrated Raptor performance to the midsize truck market, offering a vehicle specifically engineered for challenging dunes and off-road exploits.
The Ranger Raptor isn't just a showroom piece - it's been tried and tested in the Baja 1000, a testament to the vehicle's performance and durability. A pre-production 2023 Ranger Raptor showcased its capabilities by winning the stock midclass category of the Baja 1000, completing the course in 26 hours and 21 minutes, before embarking on a 200-mile journey home from the finish line to California.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor represents a significant upgrade from the standard 2024 Ford Ranger, with enhancements in power, off-road capability, and purposeful design. It exhibits a harmonious balance between ruggedness and technological sophistication, all while staying true to the Ranger's roots.
-Ed
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor
