FORD Philippines recently announced the expansion of its 4×4 pickup truck lineup, strengthening its leadership in the hotly contested segment in the country.
Just when we thought that the American automaker finished perking up its best-selling Ranger Raptor, they dropped another surprise. This time by introducing the new limited-edition Ranger Raptor X. Nevertheless, that is not all because even the current Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 will now be available with an exclusive power roller shutter.
“The Ranger Raptor X leverages on the immense success of the Ranger Raptor in the market as we continue to boost our 4×4 truck lineup and reach a new group of performance pickup enthusiasts who are into aesthetic modifications,” shared Ford Philippines managing director Michael Breen.
The “X” with an attitude
Launched in 2018, the Ranger Raptor stems from building on the tough, versatile, and capable Ranger pickup success. As an integral part of the Ford Performance family, the brand’s version of a high-performance midsize pickup truck has since become one of the biggest-selling pickup trucks in the country. Further, it has created a legion of proud owners and fans.
Exterior-wise, the limited-edition Raptor X gave the model another level of smoldering presence. Undoubtedly, this newest variant will turn heads with its unique design elements and exterior upgrades. More rugged and aggressive with a sportier look, the Raptor X features striking over-the-top (OTT) body stripes covering the bonnet, roof, and tailgate with a Carbon Twill Texture in Matte Black. It has a framed design in a Searing Red Keyline Graphic and side body stripe decal covering side doors and rear quarter panel. Moreover, the grille, door handles, bumper cover, tailgate handle, fender vent, and fog light bezels have also received matte black treatment.
Now conveying a tougher stance on the road and capable of tackling the harshest driving environments thanks to the matte black wheels with 33-inch BF Goodrich All-Terrain tires. Further complementing the tougher stance is an extended leg sports bar and red front tow hooks.
As for the interior, the known Ranger Raptor’s iconic Ford Performance interior and body-contoured sport seats received a Raptor X treatment with red stitching throughout the interior for that adventure-ready look and felt behind the wheel. The AC vents also have chrome accents for that premium touch, and Hydrographic and Black Alley accents across the dashboard round out the interior enhancements.
Beyond the cosmetic upgrades, of course, is the 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel engine under the hood. It can generate 210 hp and a staggering 500 N-m of maximum torque. Its 10-speed auto transmission, meantime, has proven durability and on-road and off-road capability when transferring power to all four wheels.
Then there is also the cutting-edge Terrain Management System (TMS), offering six modes for various driving experiences. The driver can choose to enable the available Baja mode to unleash the pickup’s prowess. Let us not even forget the 2.5-inch FOX Racing shocks capable of delivering 30 percent more wheel travel than a standard Ranger setup.
The new limited-edition Raptor X comes in three striking colors. There is Arctic White, Conquer Gray, and Performance Blue. According to Ford, the newest variant will be available in dealerships starting July. With a price tag of P2.038 million, only 200 units will be up for grabs throughout the year.
Wildtrak 4×4 with power roller shutter
Also announced was the official availability of the new Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 with power roller shutter. This new feature available on the existing variant is a piece of segment-first original equipment manufactured by Ford. It offers greater security and functionality when transporting cargo.
“At Ford, we remain committed to designing products and services that are attuned to customer’s needs and lifestyles. With the power roller shutter, our customers can enjoy added protection, convenience, and safety with a feature bearing the Ford quality DNA,” Breen added.
The power roller shutter has several ways to activate a sleeker and cleaner profile than most aftermarket offerings. One way is inside the cabin through a switch on the dashboard. Another is via a button in the tray or by simply using the key fob. It also has an anti-pinch design feature to prevent injury or damage when in contact with an object. The Ranger Wildtrak 4×4 with power roller shutter can be had for an introductory price of P1.728 starting million and is already available in Ford dealerships nationwide.
Ford Talisay now open to serve
Meanwhile, Ford Philippines also announced the inauguration of its 50th dealership in the country. Located at Cebu South Road Properties Road, Cansojong, Talisay City, Fairlane Automotive Ventures, Inc. (FAVI) operates Ford Talisay. The new branch aims to expand the Ford brand further in the Queen City of the South, reaching more customers and giving them access to Ford’s segment-leading vehicles and the Ford ownership experience.
Boasting an expansive floor area of 1,397 sq.m, it can accommodate a seven-car showroom display and 11 service bays with provisions for future expansion. The showroom brings to life the dealership branding guidelines of Ford, showcasing a more globally aligned exterior and interior look and feel called Ford Signature to offer customers a better dealership environment and experience.
“We thank our partners from Ford Philippines for their support and collaboration in seeing the construction of Ford Talisay into fruition so that we can serve our customers from Talisay City to Southern town of Cebu,” said Andre Borromeo, general manager, FAVI.