The Ford Ranger Raptor is unique in the pick-up truck segment: it has been specially developed for higher performance that the regular Ranger by Ford Performance and is built in a Ford factory alongside other Ranger variants. So it’s not just a ‘ruggedized’ Ranger with accessories installed after the truck has left the factory but built just like every other Ranger on the assembly line.
The Ranger Raptor has been in the Malaysia market since 2018 and is now in its second generation. Right from the time it was introduced, it has been a popular truck even with a pricetag starting at RM200,000. Hundreds of trucking enthusiasts have felt it is worth the money because it has been originally developed by Ford as a high-performance truck and, of course, it is also ‘Built Ford Tough’.
Besides powerful 2-litre and 3-litre EcoBoost turbodiesel engines producing up to 288 ps/491 Nm, the Ranger Raptor has also a tougher chassis and suspension with FOX Live Valve dampers. Ford Performance engineers didn’t just develop this truck for looks but to be able to go from the showroom to off-road races and return home.
The Ranger Raptor can be taken to extremes with its high performance levels enhanced by intelligent drivetrain technologies. But for most owners, experiencing those extremes is not easy and also requires safe conditions. So many may only be using it to a moderate extent – which would probably be similar to a Ranger Wildtrak.
To give owners a chance to experience the performance, Auto ConneXion-Ford held a 2-day event called Ford Raptor Rev Malaysia at Sepang Bay 13, a new off-road course behind the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit. The course (they call it a ‘motorsports ranch’) has been purpose-designed for off-road driving exercises and the Ranger Raptor was the first truck to be run there in such an event.
“We are proud to have brought together the Ranger Raptor community for this unique off-road experience. Ford Raptor Rev is a celebration of what makes the Ranger Raptor extraordinary. It is a great platform for owners and enthusiasts alike to witness the Raptor’s extraordinary capabilities in a thrilling, hands-on environment while fostering a strong sense of community amongst off-road enthusiasts,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion-Ford.
Some 80 owners participated in the event and members of the public also turned up to watch and were given an opportunity to also experience the trucks. For those who wanted to buy a new or used Ranger, there was a selection available on-site with a money-saving event-only offer.
The participants got to drive their trucks in a variety of conditions, with instructors giving them tips on how to maintain control in muddy or slippery conditions and how to use the advanced full-time 4×4 drive system with front and rear locking differentials. With 7 drive modes, the driver gets to customise the engine and suspension characteristics for optimum performance on all kinds of terrain and surfaces.
Besides jumping their truck, they also had a chance to take ‘Hot Laps’ on the Baja Course which encircles Bay 13. Taking its name from the gruelling Baja Race in California, the Ranger Raptor was driven at high speeds over rough ground, soaking up all the bumps and staying on course.
Chris Dean, an expert from Ford Australia, was also present to offer insights into the FOX suspension system as well as answer questions from owners. Besides all the driving activities, there were also live performances with popular personalities such as actor and motor enthusiast Ezzrin Loy, footballer and 4×4 enthusiast Intan Serah, ex-national bowler Syaidatul Afifah and professional drifter Hee Wei Seng dropping by to meet fans and have a go at the Ranger Raptor on the Baja Course.
Click here to know more about the Ford Ranger Raptor and other Ranger models available in Malaysia.
