2018–2022 Ford Ranger Raptor ReView

Few utes balance genuine off-road performance with everyday usability quite like the first-generation Ranger Raptor. Built to shrug off corrugations, jumps and riverbeds, yet civil enough for the commute, it remains a compelling buy, provided the example you’re looking at hasn’t been thrashed.

The model

Launched in 2018, the Raptor transformed the ordinary Ranger into a purpose-built off-road machine. Ford Performance engineers widened the track, raised the ride height, stiffened the chassis and replaced the leaf-spring rear with a coil-spring setup featuring Fox dampers. It also gained unique panels, bumpers and bash plates.

All New Zealand-delivered models use the 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel and ten-speed automatic. Power sits at 157kW with 500Nm of torque. Payload and towing both dropped compared with standard Rangers — 2500 kg braked tow rating and roughly 750 kg in the tray — but what it lost in utility it more than made up for in composure across rough ground.

Driving and ownership

On road, the Raptor is far more civilised than its wide arches and knobbly tyres suggest. The long-travel suspension smooths out rough chipseal, and while it rolls more than a Wildtrak through corners, it never feels wayward. The diesel’s twin turbos give a strong mid-range but it’s no rocket, the power delivery linear rather than urgent. Expect around 10 to 11-litres per 100 km in real-world use.

Off the beaten path, this is one of the most capable factory utes ever offer for sale. The suspension travel and clever drive-mode system allow it to tackle ruts, jumps and washouts at pace, and its damping quality is exceptional. Its size is the only drawback — the extra width and long wheelbase can make tight bush tracks tricky.

The original-spec off-road tyres weren’t wonderful on wet tarmac, and unless you are hitting the dirt every day, something a little less aggressive is likely worth it.

What to watch for

When inspecting a used Raptor, focus on how it’s been driven. Many have led easy lives as lifestyle trucks, but others have seen serious off-road use. Leaking or softened shocks, uneven damping and play in suspension bushes all suggest it’s done more jumping than commuting. Check the underbody carefully — scrapes, bent skid plates or cracked mounts hint at rough treatment. Look for signs of chassis straightening or weld repairs, and make sure the bash plates and diff housings line up square.

On the mechanical side, the ten-speed auto should shift smoothly without flare or hesitation; any thumping between gears could indicate neglect or overheating. Confirm that all drive modes engage properly and that the rear diff lock works. Ask whether the timing belt-in-oil system has been checked or serviced. Finally, inspect any aftermarket wiring for auxiliary lights or winches — poor installations can cause electrical gremlins later.Ownership costs are higher than average. The Fox shocks, control arms and other bespoke parts aren’t cheap to replace, and while Ford says otherwise the ten-speed auto really needs regular fluid changes to stay happy. The 2.0-litre’s belt-in-oil timing design is meant to last the life of the engine, though many specialists now recommend inspection or replacement around 150,000 km. There have been scattered reports of turbo, EGR and wiring issues, often in hard-used examples. A meticulous service history is more important here than a low odometer reading.

Prices

Unlike the mainstream Ranger, the Raptor is not in huge supply and those that do pop up generally don’t last long. Current used prices start at around $53,000, and go north of $60,000 for the cleanest, lowest mileage cars. Considering the cost of buying a standard ute and optioning it to this level, or the new cost of $85k, it is not bad buying and likely to hold value well.

Verdict

A well-kept diesel Ranger Raptor remains one of the most entertaining utes you can buy. It trades a little practicality for comfort and confidence in rough country, and when maintained properly it feels built to last. Avoid examples that have clearly been treated as toys, and you’ll find a capable, comfortable and surprisingly refined companion for both weekday driving and weekend exploring.  

Thanks to Fasst Auto for the loan of the Ranger Raptor. Find more of their cars at www.fasstauto.co.nz

Ford Ranger Raptor 

$53,000-60,000  /  10-11L/100km  /  
0-100 km/h 10.39s
Engine  1996cc  IL4 / TDI
Max power  157kW
Max torque  500Nm
Drivetrain  10-speed auto, 4WD
Towing 2500kg braked
Payload  750kg
Weight  2372kg