2018 Ranger Raptor

[jpd80]

Originally Posted by Dr Smith

But will they share the powertrain love downunder...or even a RHD Explorer?

Whisper is no, Ford NA will be focusing on its own market so probably no RHD Explorer. Pity...
Best hope is that next Gen Ranger has access to hybrids or PHEVs to balance against diesel sales.

[Dr Smith]

Originally Posted by jpd80

Whisper is no, Ford NA will be focusing on its own market so probably no RHD Explorer. Pity...
Best hope is that next Gen Ranger has access to hybrids or PHEVs to balance against diesel sales.

I've got 2 years to go on our Trafic Crewvan and want to get back in an auto something...so hopefully your "best hope" is our reality.

And on the note of a Ranger 2.0L 4 cylinder vs the 3.2L 5 cyl...for anyone that has gone from a 5 to 4 cyl engine will know that the smoothness and all round better refinement is not to be underestimated. When you switch between the two a few times in the same day it becomes so noticeable and much more comfortable when driving for extended periods. It's also one reason I really enjoy our V6 diesel Territory which is smoother again..

[DFB FGXR6]

Today I had the opportunity to drive the Raptor. I will say from the beginning that dual cab pickups aren’t really my thing. They just don’t suit me needs as a working tool of trade or as a recreational / fun car. But after driving it I can totally understand why someone would absolutely love this thing.

The level of cabin refinement was hugely impressive and the seats exceptionally comfortable, as was ride quality. I could see this being a very easy car to do long distance touring in. I also really liked the steering wheel with shift paddles and the rather pointless red position indicator strip. The engine has unquestionably been a controversial tropic but, frankly it suits the character of the vehicle, is much more refined than the old 3.2 I5 and is toey enough when the foot goes down, the gearbox doing a great job of tapping into the engines reserve of torque. Look, its not a firecracker of an engine (although that is probably a skewed comment owing to the fact I had just jumped out of 10 speed Mustang GT) but it is NOT a deal breaker. You can feel the weight hiding under this vehicle though and those chucky tires make themselves felt through corners but this a fun and entertaining vehicle to drive, and as I said, I totally understand the appeal.

For anyone who has doubts about this car, go to your local dealer and take one for a drive. If you then still don’t like it fine, but from someone who doesn’t really like/need these type of vehicles, I couldn’t get the smile off my face.