Ford Ranger Raptor

Performance-oriented pick-up truck gets meaner looks, more power and some clever new off-roading technology On sale Summer Price from £56,000 (est)

- Darren Moss

MANY OF US remember being terrified by the Velociraptors in the 1993 film Jurassic Park – ferocious beasts that were created using animatronics. Fast forward to 2015’s Jurassic World and the raptors were back, but this time they were computer-generated – making them faster, scarier and even more thrilling.

The point is that, over time, technology takes big leaps forward, and that’s why the latest Ford Ranger Raptor promises to be one of the most exciting pick-up trucks you can buy (and certainly no dinosaur).

Like its prehistoric namesakes, the latest Ranger Raptor looks like it could hold its own in a scrap. Features include muscular styling all round, 17in alloy wheels and LED lights at the front and rear. Those looks are backed up by a monstrous engine: a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 developing 284bhp and 326lb ftof torque.

The new engine features an anti-lag system, which keeps the turbocharger spinning when you liftoffthe accelerator pedal, so there’s no delay if you decide to press on again after slowing down. You can tailor the engine’s noise to your liking, too; among the options is a Quiet mode, which should prevent you from falling out with your neighbours. Baja mode, meanwhile, lets the engine sing at its loudest.