Ford PH launching next-gen Ranger Raptor on May 18

We may have caught a glimpse of it at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show, but this time Ford Philippines won't leave us hanging anymore.

The date is set. Ford Philippines is launching the next-generation Ranger Raptor on May 18, signaling the arrival of the Blue Oval's new and improved high-performance pickup truck that's based on the T6 Ranger platform.

Compared to the outgoing model, the next-generation Ranger Raptor will come as a larger and more capable off-road pickup truck, receiving similar chassis improvements and suspension geometry changes as that of the Ranger Wildtrak.

Furthermore, the next-generation Ranger Raptor will have the Fox 2.5 Live Valve internal bypass dampers that Ford claims reduce friction by around 50% thanks to Teflon-infused oil.

Prior launches from other markets gave us an idea of what to expect with the next-generation Ranger Raptor, leaving only the powertrain and the pricing as the remaining questions left unanswered. However, as we've noticed from the Ranger Raptor display at 2023 MIAS, Ford Philippines is likely to continue offering the Ranger Raptor with a 2.0-liter EcoBlue bi-turbo diesel engine with 210 PS and 500 Nm of torque.

Power goes to a full-time 4WD system via a 10-speed automatic transmission. When the going gets tough, there will be a new electronically-controlled two-speed transfer case with 7 selectable driving modes; Normal, Sport, Slippery, Rock Crawl, Sand, Mud/Ruts, and Baja.

Pricing of the next-generation Ranger Raptor may have to wait until May 18. And as of now, Ford dealerships in the country are yet to accept reservations. But since the launch is only a week away, those interested in the next-generation Ranger Raptor may want to have their wallets and checks ready in case order books finally open.