FORD RANGER RAPTOR

OTT workhorse is a kid-pleasing head-turner that mixes business with pleasure

- ALASTAIR CLEMENTS 

The cars we embrace most readily as classics are the ones we loved when we were kids, right? In which case, if the reaction to this bonkers machine is anything to go by, then this is as surefire a Future classic as we've featured on this page. Everybody under the age of 30 seems to adore it - and know what it is, because this is no ordinary Ford Ranger, even if it might appear superficially similar to the blingy Wildtrack models favoured by successful tradespeople.

'Sexy' trucks have long been a staple in the USA pick-ups make up five of America's top 10 best-selling vehicles, after all - but their appeal has taken a bit longer to catch on in the UK. They are firmly taking hold now, though, with old HiLux Toyotas beginning to be treasured and a new-model charge headed by halo specials such as this Ranger, a junior version of the F-150 Raptor so beloved Stateside.