If you’re needing a high-end bakkie and keen on spending in excess of R700K for one, you will soon have a variety of options.
While the Mercedes-Benz X-Class is a few weeks away from debuting in SA with its mid-model X250d carrying a price of just under R800K, Volkswagen’s Amarok hits back in the premium bakkie-segment with their range-topper at R757K. The nearest Toyota Hilux chirps in at R652K for the 4.0 V6.
But none of those carry the same name as the most hardcore pickup available. We are indeed referring to the Ford Ranger Raptor. The performance pickup is expected to reach South Africa in 2019.
Ford Australia earlier released pricing for the sporty bakkie. They priced it at a whisker over R700 000, which when you compare the price of their base Range Wildtrak, it correlates with our SA-pricing for our Wildtrak at R580 000 odd. So if we had to guestimate, we would say that the Raptor will be priced at just over R700 000 when it does launch here, making it somewhat of a performance bargain – all things concerned.
The monster bakkie will be powered by an entirely new, SA-built four-cylinder twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 157kw and 500nm. Power is sent to both axles through the already familiar 10-speed automatic transmission developed by the Ford Motor Company in collaboration with General Motors.
The Ranger Raptor is also differentiated from lesser Ranger variants thanks to its exaggerated bumpers and extended fenders, Fox suspension with rear coilovers, 17-inch wheels with BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, underbody protection, and massive brakes.
The Raptor will be built in South Africa, following a huge investment by Ford in their Struandale plant, just outside PE. Ford South Africa has yet to confirm any pricing, but expect that and final specification to be made available later this year.
Also worth a look: the Ford Transit Custom and the Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns as 800kg Track Weapon.
FAQ
Q: What does the Ford Ranger Raptor cost in South Africa?
The Ford Ranger Raptor is expected to cost just over R700,000 when it launches in South Africa in 2019, making it competitive with other premium bakkies like the VW Amarok at R757,000 and significantly cheaper than the Mercedes X250d at just under R800,000.
Q: What engine does the Ford Ranger Raptor have?
The Ranger Raptor is powered by an entirely new SA-built four-cylinder twin-turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine that produces 157kW and 500Nm, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power to both axles.
Q: Is the Ford Ranger Raptor worth buying over other premium bakkies?
At just over R700,000, the Ranger Raptor offers serious performance credentials with Fox suspension, underbody protection, and BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres, making it somewhat of a performance bargain compared to the Mercedes X-Class and VW Amarok which cost more but lack the hardcore pickup pedigree.
Q: Where is the Ford Ranger Raptor built?
The Ranger Raptor will be built right here in South Africa at Ford's Struandale plant just outside Port Elizabeth, following a huge investment by Ford South Africa in local manufacturing capabilities.
Should You Buy It?
The best hardcore performance bakkie under R750,000 in SA is shaping up to be the Ford Ranger Raptor at just over R700,000. If you want a proper off-road weapon that can handle anything from the Karoo to your local braai spot, this is your truck. The SA-built twin-turbo diesel engine, Fox suspension setup, and genuine performance pedigree make it a solid buy over the pricier but less focused Mercedes X-Class or VW Amarok. Wait for the final specs later this year, but this looks like a winner for anyone serious about their bakkie game.
