The rumors are true. After the last Ranger Raptor shunned the US market, Ford has confirmed the second generation will be sold in America. Ford Performance has released information on a brand new Ranger Raptor model that looks to take on the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro and, more importantly, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. We dive in as deep as we can at the moment to see how the Ranger Raptor will fare against the new Colorado ZR2 on paper before they hit the showroom floor.
The 2022 Chevy Colorado ZR2 Is A Beast Off-Road
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 has been on sale for some time. The new model is also in the works, expected to be on its way with the same line of engines. They include a torquey 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine or the powerful 3.6-liter gasoline V6. The diesel model makes 186 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, while the V6 is rated at 308 horsepower and 275 pound-feet. The diesel comes with a 6-speed automatic, while the V6 gasoline model uses an 8-speed auto gearbox. The ZR2 also features an Autotrac transfer case with a switchable four-wheel-drive system. For the ZR2, both engine options will be available with performance cat-back exhaust tip relocation packages, additional LED lighting kits, cargo tie-down points, and more personalization features.
GM has no plans to slow down on the innovation front. The new 2022 Colorado ZR2 is expected to get enhancements such as a 3.5-inch wider track, dedicated front, and rear e-diff locks, and more. Furthermore, the safety features will be upgraded with more assistance features and enhanced connectivity, even when driving off-road. Additionally, the model will use an updated version of the Multimatic DSSV position-sensitive dampers, a 2-inch lift kit, cast-iron control arms, and multiple skid plates for underbody protection.
The ZR2 is the Colorado’s off-road specific variant, and it gets some model-specific styling changes. Unlike the standard model, it stands out with the bold ‘Chevrolet’ lettering in place of the ‘bowtie’ badge. We expect the updated Colorado ZR2 to be available in multiple trim lines like the Dusk, Midnight, and Bison models. They will ensure the truck is ready for any form of off-roading customers subject them to, whether rock crawling, dune bashing, mobbing on the trails, or modifying them to be the perfect companions for an overland adventure.
The Highly Anticipated 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor
Ford is keeping details about the US-specific model of the Ranger Raptor under wraps for the moment. However, the automaker has released some facts and figures that give us a fair idea of where it will look to position itself when it arrives. When it comes to engines, the 2.0-liter EcoBlue bi turbo diesel will be available. But the one we are interested in is the twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6. The Australian market will be receiving this motor in a spec that makes 392 horsepower and 430 pound-feet. That will make it the most powerful mid-size truck. The motor will also feature the clever anti-lag system found on the euro-spec Focus ST for better throttle response. A 10-speed automatic gearbox will help put power to the ground through the full-time four-wheel-drive system.
Ford claims to have strengthened the Ranger Raptor’s chassis, fitted front, and rear diff-locks and beefed up the suspension mounts to improve off-road capability. The shocks are Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve internal bypass absorbers with Teflon-infused fluid that helps reduce friction and improve heat resistance when mobbing through the desert in Baja mode. The Ranger Raptor's undercarriage is protected by 2.3mm steel plates that cover the radiator, differential, engine sump, and steering.
At the moment, the details about the new-generation Ranger Raptor are limited to the model sold overseas. As standard, the Raptor-specific model is substantially beefier, sports a more aggressive appearance, rides on larger 33-inch all-terrain tires, and has all the Raptor-specific unique touches and features. The US model would be most comparable, but we wouldn't be shocked if some tweaks were made to make it more appealing to the American market.
Ranger Raptor Vs Colorado ZR2:
The mid-size truck battle in the US is largely dominated by the Toyota Tacoma. However, the Ranger and Colorado are the next models in the pecking order. The Raptor and ZR2 performance versions add some flare and off-road capabilities to the popular trucks. With all things said and done, it all boils down to the price. It is estimated that the new-generation Ford Ranger Raptor will be priced competitively at around $45,000, and it will be the most powerful truck in its class. The Colorado ZR2 however, is lighter on the wallet around $43,000. The Ranger Raptor not only looks to take on the Colorado ZR2, but Ford aspires to dethrone the Tacoma TRD Pro as well in the process.