While not official, new 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor is basically confirmed. Blue Oval manufacturer will build another high-performance pickup truck that comes with amazing off-road abilities. On the other hand, Ranger Raptor is coming to the Australia later this year. The U.S. variant is yet to be announced. Just like the F-150 Raptor, Ranger truck will get similar type of upgrades.
That includes new fenders, tires, more ground clearance and even the modified grille. Raptor version will deploy the same ladder frame as the regular model, but Raptor will get unique suspension and more equipment. Moreover, you can expect a more powerful engine too.
The Platform
The upcoming 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor will use the same architecture as the regular Ranger pickup. However, Raptor rides on a modified platform that provides better off-road capabilities. Moreover, this model is using a long-travel suspension setup with a new Fox internal dampers.
The next Raptor variant is also wider than its predecessor. Thanks to that, the 2021 Ranger Raptor will provide better stability. Lastly, Ford will look to deliver more ground clearance to its new pickup truck.
2021 Ranger Raptor Exterior Facelift
Regular Ranger mid-size pickup truck looks handsome and sporty. However, the 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor represents something unique and it looks more attractive. Remember, Raptor version is made for off-roading and it offers a couple of interesting features. For a start, this pickup truck comes with a 17-inch BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires.
Moreover, it wears numerous modifications in terms of styling. Underbody guard, skid plates and new bumpers are just a beginning. Blue Oval will install better approach and departure angles, special running boards and larger FORD logo upfront.
New Powertrain Option
Here’s the most interesting part. New 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor could gain a new V8 engine. It is an iconic 5.0-liter Coyote output that currently powers the Ford Mustang GT. This isn’t an official information but reports in Australia are saying its very certain. The Coyote V8 is producing 455 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Elsewhere, Blue Oval will offer a 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbodiesel powertrain. Still, we don’t know which engine will reach the American soil.
It is perhaps to early to tell, but Coyote engine seems to be the most realistic option. The only other engine that will hit the production in the U.S. is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost. The very same displacement is rated at 310 horsepower. Indeed, speculations are saying that this engine will be re-tuned and it will deliver 375 horses.
Competition
As you probably know, the mid-size pickup truck segment is perhaps the strongest one. Regular Ranger will have plenty of rivals to beat. On the other hand, the 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor will have only two. The first one is Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. One of the most reliable models in the mid-size segment.
The second one is a new Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 that comes with a lot of improvements. It will be interesting to see the race for the best pickup truck in this category. Especially because Ranger is coming back to the U.S.
2021 Ford Ranger Raptor Price and Release Date
The price of the brand-new 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor will start at around $45,000. This isn’t an official price but many experts are convinced that the Raptor variant won’t cost above $50,000. Ford will release its all-new pickup truck in the last quarter of 2020.