FORD RANGER RAPTOR 3.0L V6 TWIN TURBO ECOBOOST 4x4 10AT

We needed to take up some plants to our garden plot in Tagaytay, so we asked Ford for a lendout of its Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo EcoBoost 4x4 10AT.

- REVIEWED BY ARNEL DORIA

It seemed like a good chance to see how this performance pickup behaves in the kind of conditions most owners actually face. The trip would cover city traffic, long stretches of highway, winding provincial roads, and a few steep climbs toward the ridge. It was typhoon season, and the rain had been on and off for days. The morning began with a steady drizzle. By afternoon, it had turned into a full monsoon on the way home, with visibility dropping to near zero in some stretches.

Through all of that, the Raptor performed as if the weather hardly mattered. It was a weekend errand that became an ideal test of comfort, traction, and everyday capability.

DESIGN

The Raptor's design leaves no room for doubt about its purpose. The wide body, muscular lines, and bold “FORD” grille make it instantly recognizable. Its 17-inch all-terrain tires and raised stance give it presence. This is a truck that looks ready for a dirt trail, but does not feel out of place parked at a roadside café.

Inside, Ford has struck a good balance between toughness and comfort. The front seats are firm and supportive, with just the right amount of bolstering for long drives. The orange stitching, flat-bottom steering wheel, and paddle shifters hint at its sporty character without going overboard. The 12-inch touchscreen is bright and responsive, and Ford’s infotainment system paired quickly with my iPhone.

What impressed me most was how quiet the cabin stayed during the drive. Even when the rain was coming down hard, road noise remained low. The wipers, defoggers, and cameras all worked well together to maintain visibility. The only real drawback is size. The Raptor feels wide on provincial roads and requires some patience in tight parking areas, but that’s to be expected for a vehicle of this size.

HARDWARE