The 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor is Here—and It Might Be the Best Raptor Yet
With paddle shifters, a punchy engine, and compact off-road agility, the new Ranger Raptor balances power and precision for trail-loving drivers.
Ford has just unveiled the 2025 Ranger Raptor, the latest addition to its famed off-road Raptor family, and it’s already making waves with enthusiasts and off-roaders alike.
Smaller, more agile, and arguably even more capable in tight terrain than its F-150 sibling, the new Ranger Raptor brings an exciting mix of power, performance, and practicality to the midsize truck market. Here’s what you need to know about this tough, trail-dominating machine.
A Powerhouse Engine with Serious Speed
At the heart of the Ranger Raptor is a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine, boasting an impressive 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Ranger yet.
The engine’s quick throttle response—thanks to a race-inspired anti-lag system—keeps the turbos spooled even after the driver lets off the gas, ensuring instant power when hitting the throttle again, which is especially useful in tight off-road situations.
Drivers are already noting that the Ranger Raptor feels quicker and more responsive than its larger F-150 counterpart. The power-to-weight ratio is high, and Ford’s advanced 10-speed transmission keeps the shifts smooth and power on tap, whether navigating rocky trails or kicking up dirt on an open desert stretch.
In other words, this midsize Raptor has all the power without the bulk, making it a thrill to drive.
Off-Road Prowess: Ready for the Tough Stuff
Designed by Ford Performance to handle grueling off-road conditions, the Ranger Raptor is built for agility on narrow trails and tight switchbacks that can be tough for full-size trucks.
Its size allows it to navigate rugged terrain without the constant “branch-scraping” and wheelbase challenges that drivers face in larger trucks like the F-150.
Thanks to the high-performance FOX™ Live Valve shocks and reinforced frame, the Ranger Raptor absorbs impacts and rides smoothly over obstacles, from rough trails to sand dunes.
Ford has equipped it with front and rear locking differentials and seven driving modes, including “Baja” mode for desert running, “Rock Crawl” mode for tricky rock sections, and “Trail Control™,” which acts like off-road cruise control, handling throttle and braking on challenging paths.
Whether it’s mud, gravel, or sand, the Ranger Raptor’s all-terrain BFGoodrich® tires and beadlock-capable wheels deliver a steady grip and smooth handling.
Feature-Packed Cabin for On and Off-Road Comfort
Inside, the Ranger Raptor doesn’t skimp on comfort or style. The cabin has been designed with high-quality materials and performance in mind, featuring bold “Code Orange” accents and well-bolstered, Ford Performance front seats that hold drivers securely during high-speed turns.
For a high-end experience, Ford includes a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a 12-inch center touchscreen with SYNC® 4A, Apple CarPlay®, and Android Auto™ for seamless smartphone connectivity, even in remote locations.
Paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel add a fun, rally-style feel when taking manual control of the gears, and an active valve exhaust system allows for a range of sound levels—from a quiet neighborhood-friendly setting to full-bore “Baja” mode that lets the exhaust rumble freely.
A Midsize Price Point with Full-Size Performance
One of the Ranger Raptor’s biggest advantages is its price point. As a midsize truck, it offers a more affordable entry into the Raptor lineup, making it accessible for off-road enthusiasts who may have found the full-size Raptor’s price tag out of reach.
But it still has all the hallmarks of a high-performance machine: great ground clearance, a reinforced chassis, cutting-edge suspension, and tech that puts it in a league of its own among midsize trucks.
For anyone seeking a truck that can handle daily life, weekend adventures, and tough trails, the Ranger Raptor is a fantastic addition to the Raptor family. It’s built to withstand the demands of the wild while providing a smooth, powerful driving experience that’s just as fun on paved roads.
For off-roaders who need capability without the size limitations of a full-size truck, the Ranger Raptor hits the mark, offering performance, agility, and features that make it one of the most exciting trucks in its class.