The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor is finally set to debut in the Philippines on May 18, 2023.

Since its showing, fans of the hardcore truck have been pining to get their hands on the newest generation that’s been a hit ever since its introduction.

Although it has been confirmed that we will get the 2.0-liter bi-turbodiesel engine, there is word yet if Ford Philippines will also release the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 gasoline variant.

But one thing that’s certain is that Ford has upgraded it in all aspects based on the next-gen T6 Ford Ranger that has already been released in the Philippines.

So, is it any better? Let’s find out by taking a closer look at some of the most significant changes in the new Ranger Raptor from the outgoing generation.

Exterior

Up front, the new Ranger Raptor also adopts Ford’s signature headlamp treatment.

This is the unique square-shaped headlamp design with vertically stacked projector lamps and C-shaped daytime running lamps. It's totally different from the outgoing Ranger Raptor, which had a more conventional-looking headlamp design.

The changes extend to the grille, which blends in with the new headlamp shape while retaining the big and bold "FORD" script in the middle. A more pronounced skid plate adorns the bottom of the front bumper with a pair of fog lamps on either side.

While its side profile remains chunkier than ever, the large fender flares similar to the previous gen have been retained. Greatly adding to its off-road appeal is a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels with 33-inch-tall, all-terrain tires.

The hood is also different from the previous model with a pair of air vents. And unlike the previous generation that sported a plain-looking tailgate, the new one has a sculpted bottom portion stamped with a huge "RANGER" script.

It also comes with new LED tail lamps that somewhat incorporate the C-shaped design elements found on the headlamps.

Interior

The previous generation Ranger Raptor had a predominantly black interior with silver accents, but the new one has a redesigned interior with orange accents making it more attractive.

The air-con vents are now shaped differently, with a nod to the squarish headlamp design. The four-spoke steering wheel also gets a new design with larger buttons and an orange band at the 12 o'clock position and a matching "RAPTOR" script at the bottom.

If we’re lucky, Ford just might equip the local version with a heated steering wheel. Even the shift lever gets a refresh with a handy cubby hole at its fore.

The same goes for the center console, with the infotainment center at the top and the climate controls at the bottom.

Technology

Compared to the previous 8-inch unit, the new-generation Ranger Raptor boasts a 12-inch touchscreen unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Another welcome upgrade comes in the form of a 12.4-inch digital gauge cluster that replaces the analog instrument panel found in the previous generation.

Highly functional, it is able to display vital parameters like oil temperature, exterior and interior temperature, and even vehicle orientation angles when going off-road.

Unfortunately, the turbodiesel Ranger Raptor will not get the 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen audio system found in the V6 variant. A 6-speaker system will be used instead.

Safety

In addition to the slew of safety features already found on the previous-generation Ranger Raptor, the new one gets tire pressure monitoring, anti-lock braking with electronic brake-force distribution, ISOFIX child seat anchors, stability control, traction control, speed-sensing door locks, cruise control, an engine immobilizer and a car alarm.

Active safety systems include:

• Autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Lane keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert
• 360-degree view camera system
• Reverse braking assist
• Evasive steering assist
• Active park assist

Powerplant

The previous Ford Ranger Raptor used a 2.0-biturbo diesel engine that delivers 210 PS and 500 Nm of torque.

The upcoming model is expected to carry over the same powerplant, along with retaining its 10-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters. 

Permanent all-wheel drive with an electronically-controlled two-speed transfer case and a locking rear differential remains, with the locking front differential reserved only for the V6.

In addition, the Ranger Raptor comes with a Terrain Management System that has on-road and off-road driving modes, such as Baja, Sport, Weather, Rock Crawl, Mud/Sand and Normal.

Suspension

Underneath, the Ranger Raptor utilizes lightweight aluminum upper and lower control arms.

Just like the previous generation, the new-gen Ranger Raptor also comes with Fox Racing Shock absorbers. The turbodiesel only gets Fox Performance 2.5-inch dampers, while the V6 has the Fox Live Valve adaptive dampers with bottom-out protection and Teflon-infused oil.

As more details of the Philippine-market 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor come to light, it’s very evident that it brings with it a lot of changes and updates over the previous generation. 

Now, will Ford Philippines just introduce the turbodiesel or also bring in the punchy V6?

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