Pimped workhorse

Pick-ups are not really part of the natural automotive appearance of the local street scene. And if someone does show up, they are usually representatives of the one-ton segment - we are talking about those versions with a payload of around 1.000 kilograms and a more manageable engine. If one looks at the pick-up sales in absolute numbers, the picture of a market is growing that is growing. The pick-up is gaining approval from building technicians, gardeners and other craft businesses. Over 20.000 units can now be sold to men and women in Germany every year, and Ford wants to get as large a piece of the cake as possible.

The little fellow of the Ford F-150 Raptor

However, it is no longer enough to come up with a single version. Ford therefore relies on emotion and provides its ranger with the Raptor model variant. The Raptor, reminiscent of the large F-150, measures 2,18 meters in width with the mirrors unfolded and thus exceeds the conventional ranger by 17 centimeters. In addition, it is 5 centimeters taller than the standard version. In terms of ground clearance and wattage, it has also increased. He also scores with larger embankment and ramp angles, so his off-road capabilities are great.

Confident list price

The price is great too. For a simple tool, the Ranger Raptor is priced pretty confidently. 66.771 euros have to be hoisted over the counter if the peppy "Raptor" lettering is to be emblazoned on the back of the flank and "Ford" in large letters on the grille. But of course there is already countervalue. The stylish model is only supplied with the new, two-liter, double-charged EcoBlue diesel engine, which not only pumps 156 kW / 213 hp into the drive train, but also applies 500 Nm of torque to the crankshaft from 1.750 rpm. Even a two-and-a-half-ton chunk with a sturdy frame body then becomes quite lively.

Even economical according to WLTP

The manufacturer estimates the averaged WLTP consumption at 8,9 liters per 100 km, an acceptable value for the size and performance of the pick-up. The Raptor offers more than just power: the trailer hitch is as standard as the practical running boards. And a limited slip differential is also a matter of course here. The black grille and the distinctive, coarse-treaded Goodrich tires, including the dark-painted light-alloy wheels, ensure a stylish appearance.

The equipment has everything on board

It is much more objective inside. Leather seat covers and electrically adjustable furniture create a touch of luxury and comfort, but the interior design is characterized by functionality. Plastics dominate, the large screen is easy to read in the area of ​​the center console between the ventilation nozzles. Infotainment is important to Ford - there is a WiFi hotspot for up to ten different devices. There is a large, colored field between the classic speedometer scales, which is used to output a wide range of information, including which driving mode is currently active. And the ranger has some of them.

Switchable all-wheel drive

For example, it is possible to switch to all-wheel drive while driving, which is only recommended if you can no longer continue. Because, apart from the increased fuel consumption, the drive train tensions when turning the steering wheel due to the through-drive without compensating for the speed differences. There is no question that the lead frame pick-up with reinforced chassis is a first-class off-road professional with a wading depth of 85 centimeters, a handsome 32,5 degree bank angle at the front, 100 percent lock for the rear axle differential and solid underride and engine protection plus a robust rigid axle behind. It is a pity, however, that the maximum trailer load is limited to 2,5 tons - 3,5 tons should already be in such a heavy off-roader.

Ten courses for a hallelujah

Also included in the basic price is the ten-stage automatic converter, which does its job smoothly. In view of the bearish traction, so many gear changes would not be necessary at all - but a lot of torque split also means being mostly in the area of ​​the engine that is most convenient for operation. In any case, the engine does not need a lot of speed to push the Raptor vigorously. Although the manufacturer refrains from specifying the acceleration values, the spacious multi-function vehicle, which only rolls with truck homologation, is pretty confident on the road up to the target speed.

Modern assistants included

Assistants such as collision warning, lane departure control and traffic sign recognition are also on board as standard. An active cruise control would also look good on the spacious and comfortable springy long-distance giant, but is unfortunately only available for the limited version. The three-dimensional Ford emblem in the radiator grille may simply be standing in the way of the radar sensors. If you want to be beautiful, you have to cut corners.