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NEXT-GEN FORD RANGER RAPTOR TEASED: DEBUTING FEBRUARY 2022

Is That A Twin Turbo EcoBoost V6 We Hear?

Ford Ranger Raptor Teaser Video

Well, the all-new P703 Ford Ranger reveal has come and gone, and if you were watching from a desk top like I was, then you are probably left a little dazed and confused. But you also probably noticed that Ford flashed a QR code teasing the debut of an upcoming performance variant of the truck, presumed to be the Ranger Raptor. And it confirms a high-output, twin turbo V6 engine, likely shared with that of the Ford Bronco Raptor, and Ford Explorer ST. No more poky diesel.

Ford Ranger Wildtrak Australia Global P703
Image via Ford

Next-Generation Ford Ranger Raptor: What To Expect

Well, what’s not to expect? The Raptor name at this point means the tip of the spear when it comes to off-road performance at high speeds, all starting over a decade ago with the original F-150 Raptor. Eventually came the Ford Ranger Raptor, but being a global market truck, that meant making do with a four cylinder turbodiesel engine; something that Ford was reluctant to federalize for the US market, and arguably more reluctant to designate the Raptor name to American customers that have elevated expectations (and pocket books).

Then came the Ford Bronco. And soon, the Ford Bronco Raptor. This street-legal ATV with four doors looks to supplant the Jeep Wrangler’s legacy with 37-inch tires, a lifted ride height, flared fenders, a high-output EcoBoost V6 engine, radical Fox Racing shocks, unique looks, and superior high-speed off-road handling.

What does that mean for the Ford Ranger Raptor? It means that it gets to borrow much of this hardware. For the US Market, both the Bronco Raptor and Ranger Raptor will share a similar architecture, are expected the share the same engine, and will even be built in the same assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan.

Will our friends in Australia and the rest of the world have the same spec Ford Ranger Raptor? For their sake, we certainly hope so. But we’ll have to wait until February 2022 to know for sure.

2021 Ford Ranger F-150 Bronco Raptor Woodward Dream Cruise 2021
Image via Mattheus Pach, Muscle Cars & Trucks

Written by Manoli Katakis

Muscle Cars & Trucks was founded by Manoli Katakis - an automotive media veteran that has been covering the latest car news since 2009. His journalism has uncovered dozens of major product changes, updates, plans, and cancellations long before automakers were ready to make things official.

Some highlights over the years of his reporting include the uncovering of the Zora trademark before anybody else reported on the coming of a mid-engine Corvette, as well as the dead-accurate reporting of the coming of the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, two years before it hit the market, and even before the debut of the concept vehicle. This type of reporting has immediately continued here, with reports of the original seventh-generation Camaro plans being shelved, as well as what's in store for the Chevrolet Silverado.

Some of his work can be found on massive automotive media outlets, such as Motor1. He also has been a guest on the 910AM Radio Station with Detroit News auto critic Henry Payne, as well as the enthusiast-oriented Camaro Show podcast.

Over the years, Manoli has interviewed various automotive industry titans, leaders, and people that make things happen otherwise. These include figureheads such as GM CEO Mary Barra, GM President Mark Reuss, automotive aftermarket icon Ken Lingenfelter, Dodge firebrand Tim Kuniskis, along with various chief engineers of vehicles such as the Ford F-150 & Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro & Corvette, and many more.

At MC&T, Manoli is taking his journalism expertise, deeply planted sources, driving abilities, and automotive industry knowledge to new levels, covering more vehicles and brands than ever before. This is the place where you will continue to read groundbreaking stories about American performance vehicles, pickup trucks, and sport utility vehicles. Here is where you’ll also read insights and quotes from various automotive subject matter experts on the latest relevant products, as well as some of the latest official news from their manufacturers.

Fun facts: he also once beat Corvette Racing driver Tommy Milner in an autocross with a Chevrolet Bolt EV. The biggest vehicle he’s ever driven is a John Deere mining truck. Besides a go-kart, the smallest vehicle he’s driven has been a Hyundai i10. He’s also spent time in the cockpit of various American performance vehicle icons, including the fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, Dodge Challenger Demon, and Ford Mustang GT350R. He has reviewed dozens of trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles over the years.

One of his favorite new vehicles on the market today happens to be the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. He is also a card carrying member of the Sports Car Club of America, and regularly participates in Detroit Region autocross events.

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