As stated in the title, this truck is not a Ford Ranger Raptor. However, it’s arguably better. And unlike the Ranger Raptor, it’s actually available for purchase here in the United States of America. Officially, it’s known as the Ford Ranger Baja, and it’s a special package done up by Long McAurthur Ford out of Salina, Kansas. The heartland dealership offers fun packages on Mustang pony cars and F-150 pickup trucks, as well.
Here’s why we think it’s better: the Ranger Baja shares the same 2.3L EcoBoost gas engine as the standard model, with 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Ranger Raptor sold in Australia and Europe makes do with the the 210 hp, 369 lb-ft 2.0L diesel engine. According to people that have driven the Ranger Raptor, a 0-60 time is eventual, and passing power is simply theoretical. The higher horsepower and lighter weight of the EcoBoost will at least pay major dividends in the real world. As for off-road performance, the Ford Ranger Baja package seems to deliver the goods. The truck starts as an FX4 trim level, which incorporates a crucial electronic rear locking differential, while also delivering creature comforts such as 4G LTE wifi, a host of active safety features, and satellite radio. From there, the dealership added a suite of modifications for the Baja package.
Below is a total breakdown of the Ford Ranger Baja package from the Long McAurthur performance shop:
Pro-Comp 2″ Front Suspension Lift
Fox 2.0 Rear Shock Upgrade
Fuel Tactic 18″ Off Road Wheels
Toyo 33″ All-Terrain Tires
“FORD” Front Grille
Bushwacker Painted Fender Flares
Addictive Desert Design Chase Rack
Ford OEM Black Running Boards
Baja Black Exhaust Tip
Rhino Pro Spray-in Bedliner
Sun-Guard Front Window Tint
Ford OEM All Weather Mats
Ford Performance Off Road Kit
“Ranger Baja” Hood Graphics
“Ranger Baja” Bedside Graphics
“Ranger Baja” Tailgate Blackout Panel
3 Year/36,000 Mile Warranty
This particular 2019 Ford Ranger Baja is priced at $49,995, before the dealer discount. That puts it in the realm of two other outstanding off-road midsize trucks: the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison, and the Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. We don’t think you can go wrong with any of these choices.