Extra toughness as standard: Ford introduces exclusive Ranger Raptor Special Edition pickup truck

The Ford Ranger Raptor, the highest performing variant of Europe's best-selling pickup, just got even tougher in the form of a new Special Edition model.

Built in limited numbers to ensure exclusivity, the new Ranger Raptor Special Edition enhances the thoroughbred pickup's commanding exterior and premium interior with additional styling accents including bold racing stripes and distinctive red detailing.

The limited edition model is among the heroes of 'The Good, the Bad and the Bad-RSE' - a new Spaghetti Western genre-inspired action film released by Ford. The film showcases the Ranger Raptor Special Edition's newly-enhanced style and high-speed capability in appropriate off-road scenarios. 

Developed by Ford Performance as the ultimate Ranger model, the Ranger Raptor features a reinforced chassis, bespoke suspension and tyres, and a high-performance EcoBlue diesel powertrain to support the thrill-seeking outdoor lifestyles of off-road enthusiasts.

Featuring a choice of bold Performance Blue, Conquer Grey and Frozen White paint finishes, the new Ranger Raptor Special Edition adds twin matte black racing stripes - edged with red contrast lines to further emphasise the pickup's high-performance character.

The signature Ford-embossed grille features a matte black finish, creating an even more imposing appearance than the standard Raptor's grey exterior details. 

Inside, red stitching for the steering wheel, instrument panel and door cards delivers a sporty, bespoke feel. Standard high grain leather seats ensure comfort and support while tackling rough terrain, and a Special Edition-only Raceway Grey instrument panel adds further exclusivity.

The Special Edition model retains the Ranger Raptor's unique Ford Performance chassis. Optimised for high-speed off-road driving, the vehicle features a 150mm wider track and 51mm taller ride height than the Ranger XLT for greater off-road capability.

The bespoke suspension uses aluminium double wishbones at the front and a multi-link rear architecture, including FOX shock absorbers with Position Sensitive Damping, which moderates damping forces in response to changing driving scenarios. General Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres offer maximum grip on loose surfaces. 

The Ranger Raptor Special Edition is powered by Ford's 210bhp 2.0‑litre EcoBlue Bi-turbo diesel engine developing 500Nm of torque, paired with the 10-speed automatic gearbox found in the Ford Mustang sports car.

Ranger Raptor's unique Terrain Management System enables drivers to tackle a wide range of terrain and driving scenarios, including Baja Mode - aptly named after the famous Baja 1000 desert rally for optimum off-road performance.

The Ranger Raptor Special Edition will reach Ford dealerships in Europe from October this year.