For those who are waiting for updates on the next-generation Ford Ranger Raptor, we’ve got some news for you. Recently, the test mule for the new Raptor was spotted on public roads. The pictures for this come from a Thailand-based publication named headlightmag.com, and the truck in question no longer wears the padding that is meant to hide its true shape, though it still has the usual test-mule wrap.
The next-gen Ford Ranger Raptor test mule. [Photo: headlightmag.com]
From what we could see, the upcoming next-gen Ranger Raptor’s front end bears a similar design to the 2022 Ford Ranger. The grille is bisected by a thick strip, and it is then flanked by C-shaped headlamps. Down below, it also gets a lower air intake which appears much larger compared to the one on the outgoing Ford Ranger Raptor. The grille itself no longer bears the familiar hexagonal outline, instead assuming a rectangular shape.
Towards the sides of the vehicle, it appears that it has a prominent character line running slightly on the same level as its beefy all-terrain tires. There’s also the presence of a solid-looking step board, and it also comes with bulging wheel arches.
From the rear, we can see that it comes with dual exhaust tips coming out from each side of the rear bumper. The taillights appear to be rectangular just like on the older model, but the tailgate does appear to have more creases.
The Ranger Raptor test mule's side profile. [Photo: headlightmag.com]
Unfortunately, the pictures were taken from a distance so we do not know what the interior looks like. Same goes for the bed.
According to the same source though, the ones who took the photo said that the test mule sounded like a six-cylinder gasoline engine. This contrasts our earlier report months ago saying that the next-generation Ford Ranger Raptor might be getting a twin-turbo V6 diesel engine.
Of note, the said report was referring to Ford’s 3.0-liter Power Stroke diesel which is currently in use by several trims of the North American-spec F-150. At maximum, it can make up to 250 horsepower and 597 Nm of torque.
There was also a report that we released more recently about Ford Australia’s intention of giving the next-gen Ranger Raptor a larger V8 engine. Then again, there’s still no updates regarding this.
A view of its rear end. [Photo: headlightmag.com]
To this end, it appears that the next-gen Ranger Raptor might be getting several engine options. This might depend on where it will be sold, though nothing is for certain for now. Hopefully, the Philippine market gets the twin-turbo V6 diesel engine for our version of the next-gen Ranger Raptor.
Just like the outgoing version, we can also expect the next-gen Ranger Raptor to use a set of heavy-duty Fox shocks, as well as coil springs for the rear end. A ten-speed automatic gearbox is also expected, but all-in-all, the mechanical specs for this upcoming model have yet to be officially confirmed by Ford.
For more news about the next-generation Ford Ranger Raptor and other upcoming cars, keep it here on Philkotse.