2025 Ford Ranger Raptor Review: The Ultimate Midsize Performance Truck?

Exterior Design and Features

• 🎨 A new color, Marsh Gray, is introduced for the 2025 model year.
• 💡 The truck features a purposeful and aggressive look, distinct from the F-150 Raptor, with C-shaped LED daytime running lamps, LED headlights, and optional Raptor graphics.
• 🛠️ It boasts a stamped steel front bumper, over 10 inches of ground clearance, and Fox Racing 2.5 suspension.
• 💨 Functional elements include corner air curtains, a forward-facing camera with washer, and a large opening for an intercooler, though fake vents are noted as a drawback.
• 🛡️ Full metal skid plate protection and locking differentials are included for off-road performance.

Performance and Powertrain

• 🚀 Under the hood, a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.
• ⚙️ This is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.2 seconds.
• ⛽ Fuel economy is rated at 16 MPG city and 18 MPG highway, with a towing capacity of 5,510 lbs and a payload of 1,411 lbs.
• 💨 The exhaust system features stainless steel tips and an active exhaust for adjustable loudness, with a Baja mode available.

Interior Comfort and Technology

• 🛋️ The interior features Raptor-specific seats with great bolstering and soft-touch materials, including Alcantara-style fabric.
• 📱 A 12-inch portrait-style infotainment system with the Sync 5 system offers quick functionality and various apps, including zone lighting and sketching capabilities.
• 🔊 A Bang & Olufsen sound system is included, along with three memory seat settings for the driver.
• 🔌 Connectivity includes dual climate control, wireless charging, USB-C, USB-A ports, and a home power source.
• ⚠️ A notable omission is the lack of aluminum pedals, which are considered a "zonk" for a performance vehicle.

Driving Experience and Handling

• 💨 In Baja mode, the truck delivers impressive acceleration with a genuine exhaust note, and the chassis remains stable during spirited driving.
• 🛣️ While merging onto the highway, the Ranger Raptor accelerates nicely, though some road and wind noise from the 33-inch BFG Goodrich tires is present.
• 🏎️ Despite being an off-road truck, it exhibits minimal body roll in turns, thanks to the specifically tuned Fox Racing suspension.
• 👍 The steering wheel provides good feedback, and the overall driving comfort is high, making it a fun and enjoyable vehicle.

Overall Impression and Value

• 💰 The 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor has an MSRP of around $59,000, which is positioned as a strong contender against competitors like the Toyota TRD Pro.
• ✅ The reviewer considers it the must-own midsize performance truck, praising its manageable size for daily driving compared to the larger F-150 Raptor.
• 🌟 It's described as a truck that gets looks and is enjoyable to own, offering a compelling package for performance enthusiasts.