in

This Is The Ford Ranger Baja

It’s Not A Raptor, Officially, But…

Ford Ranger Baja Package

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.

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.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

2020 C8 Corvette Symbol

2020 C8 Corvette Will Keep The Stingray Name And We Told You So

Camaro Fest 2019

Camaro Fest IX: Live Photo Gallery