Ford Ranger 2019 update adds Raptor power to XLT and Wildtrak

For those wanting the beefed-up performance of the Ranger Raptor without the juiced-up looks, Ford will now sell its XLT and Wildtrak ute variants with the same 157kW/500Nm 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel and 10-speed automatic drivetrain combo.

Set to go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2018 with the rest of the facelifted Ranger line-up and Raptor flagship, the new engine option brings available powertrains to three alongside the existing 147kW/470Nm 3.2-litre five-cylinder engine and entry-level 118kW/385Nm 2.2-litre four-cylinder.

With a sequential twin-turbo set-up that aims to eliminate lag, the 2.0-litre engine delivers maximum torque between 1750-2000rpm, while peak power is available at 3750rpm.

Paired exclusively with a 10-speed torque convertor automatic transmission that Ford says has “improved flexibility and a quieter, more comfortable drive”, the 2.0-litre-equipped Rangers will also match the 3500kg towing capacity of its 3.2-litre, six-speed manual and auto siblings.

However, while the XLT and Wildtrak versions now have the option of Raptor power, they will not receive the same off-road-focused enhancements tucked under its widebody, which includes Fox Shox suspension, beefier underbody protection, bigger brakes, widened track and increased ride height.

Pricing is yet to be revealed for the new engine option, but the current XLT kicks off at $53,490 before on-road costs for the manual 'super cab' body style, while the 'double cab'-only Wiltrak is priced from $59,590 – both powered by the 3.2-litre engine.

For comparison, the top-spec Ranger Raptor wears a sticker price of $74,990.

In addition to the new engine, the updated Ranger line-up will also wear fresh looks thanks to a cleaner front grille similar to the US-spec pick-up, revised bumper and tweaked fog-light surrounds.

The Ranger line-up also wears a fresh look thanks to a cleaner front grille similar to the US-spec pick-up.

XLT grades also gain LED daytime running lights and HID headlights in the update, while Wildtrak buyers now have the option of a new ‘Sabre’ orange exterior colour.

Safety systems also receive a lift in the update with auto emergency braking being made available as an option in addition to carryover systems including lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning for XLT and Wildtrak grades.

Both grades also gain traffic sign recognition and active park assist technologies, which is available optionally in the XLT and as standard on Wildtrak.

Keyless entry and push-button start is also now included at no cost on the XLT and Wildtrak, while being made available as an option on the XLS grade.

Inside, Ford says the “interior hosts an array of upgrades to help tackle the working week, the long-weekend road trip, or the off-road adventure” thanks to “durable, tactile surface finishes ensuring a long lifespan with a quality touch and feel”.

The suspension set-up has also been overhauled across the Ranger range in the update, aimed at reducing body roll and improving the driving experience under full load conditions.

Full pricing and specification is expected to come in the coming months, but expect the usual assortment of cab chassis, single cab, super cab and double cab body styles available across 4x2 and 4x4 configurations with manual and automatic transmissions thrown into the mix.

Are you up for a plain clothes Ranger Raptor? Tell us what you think in the comments below.