Test drove a Ranger Raptor… thoughts and impressions?

The 3.0L engine is a solid match for the platform—quick and responsive. The suspension is really impressive, especially on dirt roads, giving off some of that Raptor feel, though it’s not quite as smooth as the F-150 Raptor or Bronco Raptor. Maneuverability is excellent with a tight turning radius, making it great for city driving.

What I didn’t like was the portrait-style infotainment screen and the lack of physical buttons. The layout of the center console felt awkward, and I missed having ventilated seats. The orange trim inside was a bit too loud for my taste, and overall, the fit and finish weren’t on the same level as the bigger Raptors, but I get that it’s meant to be a more affordable “entry-level” option. Still, I think it’s worth it at MSRP, but don’t pay over sticker. Cheers!

I saw a Ranger Raptor listed for $58,000 here in SoCal, but it had a $25,000 markup. Ridiculous!

Ren said:
I saw a Ranger Raptor listed for $58,000 here in SoCal, but it had a $25,000 markup. Ridiculous!

That’s insane. I got offered one at MSRP since I’m a local and a repeat customer. Dealers adding crazy markups like that are just exploiting buyers.

@Quinlan
Wish my local dealer would do the same. They don’t care if you’re local or not—the markup stays. I’m saving up for a Gen 2 Raptor, hopefully a 2018 or 2020.

Ren said:
@Quinlan
Wish my local dealer would do the same. They don’t care if you’re local or not—the markup stays. I’m saving up for a Gen 2 Raptor, hopefully a 2018 or 2020.

If you can swing it, go for a Gen 3. The suspension and overall driving experience are leagues ahead of the Gen 2. It’s totally worth it.

@Quinlan
I love the Gen 2’s aggressive front end, but honestly, I’ve been dreaming about owning any Raptor since I was 15 (I’m 29 now). It’s my ultimate goal to get one and keep it forever. Every time I see one on the road, I can’t help but admire it.

Other than the HVAC knobs and buttons, I think the Ranger’s interior is pretty similar in quality to the Bronco. I do prefer the horizontal Sync 4 screen, though.

Kirby said:
Other than the HVAC knobs and buttons, I think the Ranger’s interior is pretty similar in quality to the Bronco. I do prefer the horizontal Sync 4 screen, though.

I feel like the Bronco Raptor is more refined—it has the horizontal screen, ventilated seats, better steering wheel, and a more user-friendly console layout. Plus, the back seats are more practical. Compared to the F-150 Raptor, though, the Ranger isn’t even close. But for its price, the Ranger Raptor does a great job.

I love the specs, the looks, and the power, but I’m not sold on Ford interiors or their long-term reliability.

Ari said:
I love the specs, the looks, and the power, but I’m not sold on Ford interiors or their long-term reliability.

I hear you. The performance is definitely there, but I wasn’t impressed with the interior design either. Longevity is still a big question mark.

Great summary. I want to check out some off-road reviews to see how it handles. Calling it an ‘entry-level Raptor’ feels weird, but for heavy off-road use, having something simpler and more durable might make sense. Plus, saving money at the dealer leaves more for suspension upgrades or other mods.

@Nuri
The problem is that everything inside is black, and it doesn’t have ventilated seats, so it’s going to get super hot in the sun.

I just can’t stand how it looks. Something about the design feels off.

Haru said:
I just can’t stand how it looks. Something about the design feels off.

Totally agree. I think GM and Toyota have better-looking midsize trucks.

Haru said:
I just can’t stand how it looks. Something about the design feels off.

I feel like the aftermarket will be where this truck shines. Ford kept it pretty plain, but the performance potential is definitely there.

Appreciate the feedback! One thing I do like about the Ranger is how the screen is integrated into the dash. I can’t stand how some trucks have screens sticking out above the dash. That said, the GMC AT4 is really growing on me lately.

@Mason
Not having physical buttons for basic functions like HVAC is a deal-breaker for me.

Quinlan said:
@Mason
Not having physical buttons for basic functions like HVAC is a deal-breaker for me.

Totally understand. Watching YouTubers struggle to figure out the controls was funny, though. Once you get used to it, I’m sure it’s fine, but yeah, not ideal.

I’m torn between the Raptor and the AT4X. GMC interiors are so much better. I have a Bronco, and the interior is pretty bad.

Teal said:
I’m torn between the Raptor and the AT4X. GMC interiors are so much better. I have a Bronco, and the interior is pretty bad.

I test drove a Canyon AT4X recently. The suspension is just as good as the Ranger Raptor’s, and the interior blows it out of the water. The buttons, layout, and overall finish are way better. It’s down on horsepower compared to the Ranger, but still plenty quick. My only gripe is the white trim in the AT4X—it’s going to be a pain to keep clean.