Ford Performance Archives

Want a more hardcore next-generation Ranger?

The next-generation Ford Ranger has arrived in Malaysia and also joining the range before the end of the year will be the new Ranger Raptor. Developed by Ford Performance, the Ranger Raptor has proven to be the ultimate Ranger which blends raw power with mechanical and technical precision to create the most advanced Ranger ever.

The big news for performance fans is the introduction of a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 producing up to 392 ps at 5,650rpm and 583 Nm at 3,500rpm tuned by Ford Performance. However, the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine will also be available in markets where a smaller displacement is more practical. Malaysia would be one of them.

The 2-litre Bi-turbo engine with high-pressure Commonrail Direct Injection is already a familiar powerplant as it is used in the latest Ranger Wildtrak. With two turbochargers, the engine (for the Raptor) pushes out 213 ps, with a massive 500 NM of torque.

All that power and torque flows through Ford’s own 10-speed automatic transmission which has been specially calibrated to work perfectly with the turbocharged engine. Not only is power delivery smooth but gear changes are also quick and precise with advanced programming to ensure the right gear for every situation.

With an electronically-controlled active exhaust system that amplifies the engine note in 4 selectable drive modes (Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja), the Raptor’s vocal character ranges from mild to wild. Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel or by selecting a drive mode.

While there are similarities, the new Ranger Raptor has a unique chassis when compared to latest Ranger. A series of unique mounts and reinforcements, for elements including the C-pillar, load box and spare wheel, as well as unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket all combine to give the vehicle much more capability in extreme conditions.

The suspension is completely redesigned, with all-new tough, lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long travel front and rear suspension and refined Watt’s link rear end designed to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speed.

The new suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease ensuring maximum control and performance.

Soaking up those humps and bumps are next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers with cutting-edge control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever on Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon-infused oil that reduces friction by around 50% compared to those on the previous Raptor.

While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering and real-world testing. Everything from adjusting the spring rates to setting the ride height, valve tuning and honing the ride zones was performed to create the perfect balance between comfort, control, stability and traction on-road and off-road.

In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare the Ranger Raptor for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the bypass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.

The Ranger Raptor’s ability to tackle rough terrain is further enhanced with tough underbody protection. The front bashplate is almost double the size of the standard Ranger bashplate and made from 2.3 mm-thick high-strength steel. This bashplate, combined with the engine undershield and transfer case shield, provides protection for key components like the radiator, steering system, front cross member, engine sump and front differential.

For the first time, the Ranger Raptor gets an advanced permanent 4-wheel drive system with an all-new electronically controlled on-demand 2-speed transfer case, combined with front and rear locking differentials, a feature that hardcore off-roaders will appreciate.

Unlike other pick-up trucks in the market with bodykits to just give a sportier image, the Ranger Raptor’s was specially developed by Ford Performance. The flared fenders accommodate a choice of two muscular 17-inch wheel designs, one with beadlock capability, and each wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain tyres.

Functional vents, aero features, and tough, new-design cast aluminium side steps help enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature link to the front, while the precision grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to aid the truck’s departure angle.

Inside, the theme continues to emphasize the off-road performance and high-energy nature of the exterior. The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats – both in the front and rear – that are not only more comfortable but more supportive during high-speed cornering.

When the first Ranger Raptor was launched in Malaysia, its RM209,000 pricetag was thought to be excessive. But much to SDAC’s surprise, the model was in high demand. It was just the thing for the hardcore types who could get a factory-ready truck with genuine high performance – and with a warranty too.

2nd Generation Ford Ranger Raptor – tougher, more powerful and more capable

While the Ford Ranger has just entered its fourth generation, its high-performance variant – the Ranger Raptor – is just getting into its second generation. The Raptor suffix, as you would know by now, is what Ford puts on its most powerful variants of the production Ranger and F-150 (and more recently, the Bronco too). These are developed by Ford Performance and have been setting the performance benchmark for pick-up trucks.

With the new generation, the Ranger Raptor gets smarter technology controlling tougher, next‑generation hardware. While raw power is still the name of the game, technology also has a big role in using all the performance available.

“We’ve really focused on delivering a genuine performance truck with the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor,” said Dave Burn, Ford Performance chief programme engineer for new model. “It’s significantly faster, looks incredible, is packed with new features, and it’s the toughest Ranger we’ve ever made.”

2020 Ford Ranger Raptor — *First generation of the Ranger Raptor.*

New 3-litre V6 petrol engine
As speculated, there is a new powerplant and it runs on petrol. This is an all-new twin-turbo 3-litre V6 engine from Ford’s EcoBoost family. Tuned by Ford Performance, it is expected to produce up to 288 ps/491 Nm. The engine has a tough compacted graphite-iron cylinder block, which is around 75% stronger and up to 75% stiffer than the iron used in traditional castings.

The engineers have tuned engine to deliver immediate response to throttle inputs, and have installed a race-bred anti-lag system similar to that first seen on the Ford GT road car and Focus ST which enables rapid delivery of boost on demand. The system, available in Baja mode, keeps the turbochargers spinning for up to 3 seconds after the driver backs off the throttle, allowing for faster resumption of acceleration out of corners or through the gears when the driver steps back on the accelerator. In addition, the engine is programmed with an individual turbocharging boost profile for each of the advanced 10-speed automatic transmission’s gears, for optimised performance.

The new powertrain has an electronically‑controlled active exhaust system amplifies the engine note in 4 selectable modes to adapt its vocal character. Drivers can choose their preferred engine sound by pressing a button on the steering wheel, or by selecting a drive mode that uses one of the following settings – Quiet, Normal, Sport, or Baja. In the Baja mode, intended for off-road use only, the exhaust behaves more like a straight-through system.

*2-litre EcoBlue bi-turbo diesel 4-cylinder engine will also be available for the new Ranger Raptor, but from 2023.*

The 3-litre engine may be bigger than what is practical for the Peninsular Malaysian market and Ford says it will continue to offer the 2-litre EcoBlue bi‑turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine in some markets. However, it will only be available from 2023.

Hardware for the hardest conditions
The chassis of the new Ranger Raptor differs from that of the new Ranger. It has mounts and reinforcements in certain areas to give the truck greater capability to handle more punishing off-road conditions.

Ford engineers also completely redesigned the suspension. There are new tough yet lightweight aluminium upper and lower control arms, long‑travel front and rear suspension and a refined Watt’s link rear end, all to deliver more control across rough terrain at high speeds.

The suspension upgrades in the Ranger Raptor make the most of the new FOX Live Valve dampers. The suspension adapts in real-time to enable exceptional on-road body control while absorbing corrugations and bigger ruts off-road with ease, ensuring maximum control and performance.

The next-generation FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal by-pass shock absorbers feature advanced control technology offering position-sensitive damping capability. These shock absorbers are the most sophisticated ever fitted to the Ranger Raptor and are filled with Teflon‑infused oil that reduces friction by around 50% compared to those on the first generation. While the hardware is FOX, the tuning and development work was carried out by Ford Performance using a mixture of computer-aided engineering and real-world testing.

Linked to revised selectable drive modes, the Live Valve internal by-pass system has been developed to provide better on-road comfort and off-road ride quality both at high and low speed. In addition to working with the drive modes, the system works in the background to prepare for different conditions. As the shocks compress, different zones within the by-pass system give exactly the amount of support needed for the travel being used, and work in reverse as the shocks rebound back to full height.

To provide protection against severe bottom outs, race-proven FOX Bottom-Out Control provides maximum damping force in the last 25% of shock travel. Similarly, the system can stiffen the rear dampers to prevent Ranger Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration, improving vehicle stability.

The new Ranger Raptor gets some serious underbody protection. The front bash plate is almost double the size of the one in standard new Ranger, and is made from 2.3 mm thick high-strength steel.

All-terrain control
For the first time, the Ranger Raptor gets an advanced full-time 4-wheel drive system with an all‑new electronically‑controlled on-demand 2-speed transfer case. This is combined with front and rear locking differentials which is something that will be greatly appreciated by hardcore off-road drivers.

With 7 drive modes, the truck’s character can be optimised for anything from smooth roads to mud and ruts. Each selectable drive mode adjusts a number of elements from engine and transmission to ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering and throttle response. In addition, the gauges, vehicle information and colour themes on the instrument cluster and centre touchscreen change with the selected drive mode.

Trail Control is something like cruise control but for off‑roading. The driver simply selects a set speed below 32 km/h and the vehicle will manage its acceleration and braking while the driver concentrates on steering through difficult terrain.

Tough and athletic
Looks-wise, the new Ranger Raptor has similarities with the new Ranger but gets a bolder appearance with more visual muscle. The matrix LED headlights with LED daytime running lights raise lighting performance to new levels, featuring predictive curve lights, glare-free high beam and auto dynamic levelling.

Functional vents, aero features and tough, grippy cast-aluminium side steps enhance the look and functionality of the truck. At the rear, LED taillights provide a signature styling link to the front, while the Precision Grey rear bumper features an integrated step pad and towbar that is tucked up high to avoid compromising the departure angle.

Inside, the theme continues to emphasize off-road performance. The cabin features all-new, jet fighter-inspired sports seats in the front and rear to increase comfort and offer more support during high-speed cornering.

The Code Orange accents on the instrument panel, trim and seats are mirrored by the ambient lighting which bathes the interior in an amber glow. Occupants will also benefit from the latest digital technology such as a 12.4‑inch all-digital cluster and 12-inch centre touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

To locate a showroom to view and test-drive Ford trucks in Malaysia, visit www.sdacford.com.my.

Ford Bronco Raptor – the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever offered

‘Raptor’ is the name Ford adds to its models when their performance is boosted to extremes. We’ve seen how Ford Performance, the carmaker’s high-performance division, has transformed models like the F-150 and Ranger to become more hardcore as Raptor versions, and now they’ve done it with the new Bronco SUV.

Ultra4 Racing-inspired
The Bronco Raptor is the newest member of the Bronco outdoor brand of Built Wild SUVs and will be the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever offered. It is also the world’s first Ultra4 Racing-inspired SUV, built for desert running and boulder crawling.

To build the world’s first Ultra4-inspired SUV, Ford Performance had to make the Bronco even faster and bring more off-road capability, agility and maneuverability. “We had to build the Bronco Raptor – it’s our ultimate vehicle for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who demand something more,” said Carl Widmann, Ford Performance chief engineer. “Like the Ultra4 desert race trucks, the ‘Raptor of SUVs’ conquers desert dunes at highway speeds and is equipped with competition-level off-road technology and hardware.”

Starting with the Bronco frame as foundation, the Ford Performance team added more suspension travel and track width for handling stability during high-speed desert runs. At the Raptor core is a fully boxed, high-strength steel frame with new shock towers that increase wheel travel and off-road durability.

Heavy-duty hardware for desert events
Heavy-duty bash and skidplates provide continuous driveline coverage from the front bumper to the back of the engine, transmission and transfer case. In the upper body, B-pillar cross bar and C-pillar reinforcement help deliver a greater than 50% total body-in-prime torsional rigidity increase over a standard Bronco.

Competition-level, Ford Performance-developed axles further deliver on the Ultra4-inspiration. The solid rear axle is upgraded to a semi-float Dana 50 Heavy-Duty AdvanTEK with 235-mm ring gear, while the Dana 44 AdvanTEK front-drive unit includes upgraded half-shafts with 210-mm ring gear. These upgraded front and rear axles increase the track width, while larger front and rear driveshafts support increased wheel torque. An advanced 4×4 system with 3 modes includes a higher-capacity clutch designed to withstand the demands of high-performance desert events.

As with other Raptor variants, the Ford Performance team also installed FOX parts to upgrade the High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) system with Live Valve technology. Similar to the F-150 Raptor truck’s position-sensitive damping design, the Raptor HOSS 4.0 system features FOX 3.1 Internal Bypass Semi-Active Dampers that are uniquely tuned at the front and rear and feature integrated reservoirs up front and remote reservoirs in rear.

Suspension height sensors and other sensors at each corner monitor terrain conditions independently hundreds of times every second and adjust suspension tuning accordingly. The Bronco Raptor also runs with a minimum ground clearance of 332 mm, 122 mm more than a regular model.

More power for desert running
To give Bronco Raptor even more desert-running power, the powertrain team developed the proven twin-turbo 3.0-litre EcoBoost engine with specific Raptor-level tuning to meet Ford Performance standards. With a target of more than 400 bhp, this would make the Bronco Raptor the most powerful street-legal Bronco ever. Intercooling and air-induction systems ensure that higher ambient desert temperatures can be endured for long periods.

For higher-speed desert capabilities or crawling over rocks, the compacted graphite iron-block engine, which saves weight while providing strength for added durability, is paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission tuned to meet Ford Performance standards. A true dual-exhaust system, featuring first-for-Bronco active-valve technology, uses near-equal-length pipes for an improved exhaust note. The system allows drivers to alter the sound of their Bronco Raptor with four selectable exhaust modes, including Normal, Sport, Quiet and Baja.

Extreme Built Wild design
“As the most badass Bronco yet, the Bronco Raptor design is extreme,” said Paul Wraith, the Bronco’s design chief. “It’s muscular, while maintaining an underlying simplicity with performance-focused details added only for outstanding high-speed capability.”

Familiar Ford block lettering at the front stretches across the signature two-piece rectangular grille. LED headlights with amber daytime running lamps and integrated amber marker lamps further tie in the DNA of the Raptor to provide a menacing look. A heavy-duty modular steel front bumper by Ford Performance includes tow hooks, removable bumper end caps for improved off-road clearance and rigid off-road lamps for greater illumination.

The bonnet is made of sheet-molding compound, which allowed the design team to dramatically sculpt its muscular shape. An integrated vent is molded-in-colour Carbon Black and fender vents are painted body colour.

The Bronco Raptor leverages on the Bronco’s patented off-road modular design, stripped it to its base, and replaced components with unique-to-Raptor front and rear quarter-panels, fenders, fender flares and door appliques. Sheet-molding compound is once again used to sculpt the wider front fenders and integrated bodyside heat extraction ducts, which provide additional engine cooling.

Race-focused interior
The driver gets the familiar heritage-inspired horizontal dashboard, integrating an all-digital 12-inch cluster. The cluster allows drivers to select from various views, including a Bronco Raptor-exclusive Performance View that emphasizes tachometer and gear readings and allows the customization of gauges.

“The Bronco Raptor interior was designed around what we know hardcore off-road racers want in a vehicle,” said Ryan Olsson, design manager. “From the all-new Performance View on the cluster and unique steering wheel with paddle shifters and fingertip access to Raptor-specific controls, to its race-ready, high-bolster front seats, Bronco Raptor leaves the factory ready for the starting line.”

As standard, it has SYNC4 with a 12-inch touchscreen, information on-demand panel and enhanced voice recognition. Other technology features include an exterior camera with 360-degree viewing capability. The Lux Package is available for customers looking for even more human-centered technology, such as an optional 10-speaker B&O audio system and Adaptive Cruise Control.

Ford GT Heritage Edition pays homage to 1964 prototype of Le Mans winners

If you saw the 2019 movie ‘Ford vs Ferrari’, you will know that in the 1960s, Ford entered the Le Mans 24-Hour races and won, the only American racing car to win the classic endurance event. Now, as a tribute to the Ford GT prototype that was used to develop the racing cars, Ford is introducing a Ford GT ’64 Prototype Heritage Edition.

6th Heritage Edition model

The limited-edition mid-engine supercar comes as the model enters its the final year of production. It is the sixth in the ultra limited production series related to the Le Mans cars. Many of the cars have the Gulf paint scheme that was distinctive in that era of motorsport.

2022 Ford GT Heritage Edition — *Another version in the Ford GT Heritage Edition, this one inspired by the 1966 GT40 MK II in the background.*

This latest Heritage Edition is based on the 1964 Ford GT prototype that debuted at the New York International Auto Show in April 1964. It has Wimbledon White paint with Antimatter Blue graphics, including an over-the-roof triple racing stripe. Exposed carbonfibre components are prominent, including 20-inch Antimatter Blue-painted carbonfibre wheels, a touch unique to Ford GT, as well as an exposed carbonfibre front splitter, side sills, mirror stalks, engine louvers and rear diffuser finished in gloss. Brembo brake calipers lacquered in silver with black graphics, plus black lug nuts further modernize the aesthetic.

*The world’s first mass-produced carbonfibre wheel application that debuted as standard equipment on the 2015 Shelby GT350R Mustang is also available for the Ford GT.*

Carbonfibre all over

Carbonfibre is also used around the cabin, for the door sills, lower A-pillars and console, along with matte registers, and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara-wrapped seats featuring silver stitching. The instrument panel is wrapped in Ebony leather and Lightspeed Blue Alcantara, while pillars and headliner are wrapped in Ebony Alcantara. Antimatter Blue appliques on the instrument panel, door register bezels and seat X-brace are coordinated with the unique wheels. The steering wheel is finished in Ebony Alcantara with black stitching, while dual-clutch paddle shifters are clear and polished.

The narrow-profile canopy reduces frontal area and caps a purposeful interior that provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure control, comfort and safety. The 2-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbonfibre passenger cell.

This configuration significantly reduces seating hardware and weight, and provides a consistent and direct sensory connection to the chassis. The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver heights.

An F1-style steering wheel integrates all necessary driver controls, creating a stalkless steering column that allows uncluttered access to the transmission paddle-shift controls. A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving environments and different driving modes.

700 ps EcoBoost engine

The engine behind the cockpit is a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged Ford EcoBoost V6 with a power output of up to 700 ps and around 750 Nm of torque. The Powershift transmission is a dual-clutch unit made by Getrag. Ford’s high-performance division, Ford Performance, has been directly involved in the car’s development.

The current Ford GT is actually the second time Ford has built such a model. The first one was produced between 2005 and 2006 to celebrate the company’s centenary, with 4,038 units built. The second generation was introduced at the end of 2016 and production was planned to be 250 units a year until 2022. It is built at the factory of Canadian-based Multimatic, a specialist manufacturer.

*During 2005 and 2006, Ford built around 4,000 units of the first generation Ford GT which was for the company’s centenary celebration.*

Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more about Ford models in Malaysia

Ford Bronco 4600 leads all-new outdoor brand of Built Wild 4x4s

*Visit www.bhpetrol.com.my to find out more about other promotions at BHPetromart.*

When Ford brought back the Bronco SUV, it created many new marketing opportunities for the product. Ford Performance also had some ideas and one of them which has been revealed is the Bronco 4600 race vehicle. Representing the all-new outdoor brand of Built Wild 4x4s, the Bronco 4600 demonstrates how the latest Bronco can be prepped by customers for off-road racing, especially in the ULTRA4 series.

2021 Ford Bronco and 1965 Ford Bronco — *The modern Bronco launched in 2020 and the original which was introduced in 1965*

Built Wild off-road racing
With the first-generation Bronco having won the 1969 Baja 1000 race outright, the modern Bronco 4600 builds on a winning tradition. This starts with a Bronco 2-door SUV with stock powertrain running on a competition-tuned High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension (HOSS) System.

Testing of the Bronco 4600 begins later this month, with the race vehicles going on to run this year in the ULTRA4 alongside factory-backed Bronco 4400 series race vehicles. The model uses a 2021 Bronco 2-door with a Sasquatch Package, and is powered by a race-tested production 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 powertrain with SelectShift 10-speed automatic and second-generation T-6 chassis.

It serves as a test bed for a growing list of Ford Licensed Accessories and Ford Performance parts alongside the independent performance aftermarket. Taking learnings from the Bronco R Race Prototype that ran the 2019 and 2020 Baja 1000, the Bronco 4600’s competition-tuned high-performance off-road stability suspension features Fox coil-over shocks with remote reservoirs and Fox pneumatic bump stops at all four corners.

It also features Wilwood Engineering brakes and 35-inch BFGoodrich mud-terrain T/A KM3 tyres mounted to Method Race Wheels 202 Forged Beadlock wheels.

Inspired ‘war paint’
All the Bronco 4600 race vehicles will feature a new livery leveraging factory 2021 Bronco colours – Race Red, Oxford White and Velocity Blue. The front design takes inspiration from the 1969 Baja 1000-winning Bronco, with matte black bonnet, plus white upper and red lower body lines that transitions into a more modern Bronco design scheme extending rearward.

“Our new ‘war paint’ scheme tells the Bronco race story – up front is chapter one that traces back to the victorious 1969 Bronco, then, as you travel along the side, the lines get more diagonal, more futuristic, signaling the future of the brand,” said Scott Guan, Bronco designer. Like the Bronco R Race Prototype and Bronco Sport Rebelle Rally SUVs, the Bronco 4600’s “R” in the grille is distinctly red.

Continuing the Bronco heritage

“Innovating the off-road landscape and competing with Bronco’s higher-speed off-road abilities have always been at the core of Bronco brand’s heritage,” added Dave Rivers, Ford SUV Marketing Manager.

“Our new Bronco 4600 racers underscore our motorsports heritage and how the all-new 2021 Bronco can be tuned from the showroom floor to compete in the gruelling ULTRA4 stock class series,” he said.

The Bronco is now available in Malaysia but Sime Darby Auto ConneXion has the powerful, very rugged, very capable Ranger Raptor. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.

Savings of up to RM6,000 on new Ford Ranger Raptor and Wildtrak

The Chinese New Year festive season is coming up and if you want to celebrate it with a brand new vehicle, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has some deals for you which could save up to RM6,000. The savings are for the Ford Ranger Raptor and Ranger Wildtrak models (selected year) and while stocks are available.

The Ranger Raptor is still the only pick-up truck of its kind in Malaysia and even the region. Built with the expertise and assistance of Ford Performance, it sets a new benchmark as the first and only factory-built performance pick-up truck in the country.

While there are some models which have bodykits installed to give them a more macho look but the performance is not increased, the Ranger Raptor has enhanced performance to go with its much more aggressive appearance. In particular, the Fox Racing Shox that are installed as standard provide higher damping forces at full bounce and rebound to enable better off-road capabilities – and the ability to handle jumps.

The Ranger Raptor comes with a powerful 2-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine which produces 213 ps/500 Nm which goes to the rear or all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission. An intelligent Terrain Management System offers 6 modes, including a Baja Mode, which customise the engine and performance characteristics to the terrain for optimum grip and stability.

*To know about other promotions at BHPetromart, visit www.bhpetrol.com.my.*

Not everyone may need the extreme capabilities of the Ranger Raptor but still want off-road capability without giving up on refinement. This is where the Ranger WildTrak will prove to be an ideal choice. Besides a generous list of standard equipment and features, it also has an array of smart safety technologies.

Some of the first-in-class features are Autonomous Emergency Braking with Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. There’s also Semi-Automatic Parallel Parking which will certainly be welcome by those who have been deterred by the vehicle’s size and length. At the touch of a button, the computer slots the Ranger Wildtrak in and all the driver has to do is manage the power.

Its 2-litre Bi-turbo diesel engine is also mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox and provides drivers with 180 ps of power and 420 Nm of torque. This gives the WildTrak the ability to carry a maximum payload of 1000 kgs and a towing capacity of 3500 kgs.

To locate a Ford showroom in Malaysia, visit www.sdacford.com.my . In view of the current pandemic requiring observation of SOPs, customers are encouraged to make an appointment first. They can do so using WhatsApp to connect to the Ford Sales Line at +60 19-204 1200.

Click here for other news on Ford and Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

New Ford F-150 Raptor extends extreme off-road capability

Malaysians know the Ford Ranger Raptor as the most extreme Ranger ever sold in the region. Developed with assistance from Ford Performance, the pick-up truck has the performance to go with its macho looks. Its name was derived from a variant of the F-Series which was introduced in 2009 for desert racing, eventually being used to represent the brand’s high-performance trucks.

With the F-Series now in its 14^th generation (since June last year), Ford has also updated the F-150 Raptor for its third generation. It comes with completely redesigned running gear, re-engineered with an all-new rear suspension and even better overall performance on rough terrain at high speeds.

“Raptor is the original desert truck. We just took it to another level,” said Ali Jammoul, Ford Performance Vehicle Program Director. “The all-new Raptor splices high-speed off-road performance muscle with advanced technology and connectivity that comes together in a unique Built Ford Tough way.”

The rugged, aggressive exterior advances the signature design of F-150 Raptor. Completely redesigned, the distinctive front emphasizes the truck’s width with a machine-tough look featuring a power dome bonnet with blacked-out grille and headlights that stretch fender to fender.

Inspired by Raptor fighter jet
The bonnet has a new heat extractor and functional side vents at the top trailing edge of the fender, all inspired by the intakes of the F-22 Raptor fighter jet. Aggressive front fenders emulate the windswept look of dust billowing off the top of the tyres at high speed. The same concept extends to the rear, with blacked-out taillights and available tailgate appliqué creating visual fender-to-fender width.

*Some styling elements have been inspired by the F-22 Raptor (below).*

A wider front skidplate offers greater coverage side-to-side and extends protection forward. Durable steel front and rear bumpers are built for the rigors of off-roading, with the rear bumper retaining the high-clearance design that tucks the dual exhaust tips high up against the truck.

Available in SuperCrew configuration on a 3683 mm wheelbase, the new Raptor features a fully boxed high-strength steel frame with a high-strength, military-grade, aluminium alloy and composite body. The suspension, stronger, taller shock towers and rear control arm mounting points have been made more capable.

3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 + 10-speed transmission
Power comes from a third-generation twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost high-output V6 engine. Ford is not revealing output figures yet but says it ‘delivers torque low in the rev range right where it counts’. It has new high-power fans built into the cooling system for maximum cooling performance and with the standard 36-US gallon (136 litres) capacity, the estimated range is more than 800 kms.

A new three-inch equal-length exhaust system features a patent-pending built-in X-pipe, unique ‘trombone loop’ and first-for-Raptor active valves. The system takes advantage of a true pass-through muffler design that improves sound quality. Customers can configure four sound level modes – Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja.

The Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission (also available in Rangers sold in Malaysia) is upgraded with next-generation controls is bolted to an innovative torque-on-demand transfer case. A standard electronic locking rear differential and available TORSEN front limited-slip differential are fitted with 4:10 final drive ratios.

With 7 selectable drive modes, the Terrain Management System allows drivers to choose the setting best suited to driving conditions. Each mode adjusts steering feel, transfer case behaviour, stability control, active valve exhaust, active damping system, throttle mapping and transmission shift points, as well as the display on the digital gauge cluster.

Trail 1-Pedal Drive is a system helps make extreme off-road driving like rock crawling easier. In harsh trail situations, a driver typically must use both pedals, modulating throttle and brake simultaneously to advance the truck. Trail 1-Pedal Drive simplifies all that, combining those operations into activating just the throttle – press to move forward, release to brake. The computer ‘co-driver’ applies the brakes proportionally as the driver lifts from the accelerator.

The F-150 Raptor also comes with standard Trail Control, which operates like cruise control for off-road use. Once the desired speed is set, the computer manages throttle and braking to allow the driver to focus on steering through challenging off-road conditions.

It’s also possible to use the truck as a mobile power generation with Pro Power Onboard. With the engine running, up to 2 kilowatts of electrical output is available to run power tools, camp lights and other equipment.

Redesigned rear suspension
Of note is the 5-link rear suspension with extra-long trailing arms to better maintain axle position on rough terrain, a Panhard rod and 24-inch coil springs – the longest in the class. The suspension, combined with more sophisticated engine management software, means the truck can put more torque to the rear wheels for quicker starts off the line, faster acceleration and better throttle responsiveness while simultaneously delivering comfort, stability, handling, control and traction at speed.

The Raptor can fly through the air easily and handle heavy landings, a requirement for a desert racer, and to improve this, there are next-generation FOX Live Valve internal bypass shock absorbers with state-of-the-art electronic control technology offering position-sensitive damping adjustability.

The Raptor’s largest-ever shocks are designed to better resist heat build-up and to react even faster to terrain changes for greater confidence over extended desert running. The larger 3.1-inch-diameter anodized aluminium bodies of the absorber unit are filled with all-new low-friction shock fluid specially designed to decrease frictional losses inside the damper for improved off and on-road comfort. New electronically controlled base valves are race-proven with an upgraded design enabling upward of 1,000 pounds of damping per corner at desert speeds.

Readings from suspension height sensors and other sensors around the truck change damping rates independently at each corner 500 times per second, with the shocks responding at the same speed the human brain processes visual information. The truck responds by the time the driver even registers a terrain change.

The Raptor is available with the largest factory-fitted to a production light-duty full-size pick- up – either 35-inch or 37-inch tyres. These are specially designed BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyres which can easily clear obstacles. When fitted with the 37-inch tyres, there’s up to 332 mm of running clearance. Wheel travel with 35-inch tyres reaching 356 mm at the front and 380 mm at the rear.

Tech for off-road or on-highway
The new high-tech cockpit has a customizable 12-inch digital gauge cluster with Raptor-specific graphics and animations, off-road data and turn-by-turn navigation. The customizable new 12-inch centre screen allows owners to split the screen and control multiple functions simultaneously, including navigation, music or truck features.

A 360-degree camera system provides an in-cabin view of obstacles around the truck, with the front view offering a real-time tyre track overlay to dynamically show the path of the wheels ahead to reduce the need to stop for spotter guidance.

The new interior uses enhanced materials, unique surface finishes and has more storage. The steering wheel features a laser-etched logo, top centering mark and aluminium paddle shifters are fitted. Seats with large bolsters keep occupants in place and even more aggressive Recaro bucket seats are available as optional equipment.

Ford Ranger Raptor — The F-150 Raptor isn’t available in Malaysia but Sime Darby Auto ConneXion can offer you the equally extreme Ranger Raptor, developed with the same expertise from Ford Performance. Visit **www.sdacford.com.my** to know more.

Ford Performance honours achievements in endurance racing with special Ford GT editions (w/VIDEO)

America has many races of its own and understandably, the American carmakers have focussed more on their domestic events. In as far as the legendary events in Europe are concerned, American cars have not featured strongly though many have been entered.

However, where the classic Le Mans endurance race is concerned, Ford has participated in the past and also present and the Ford GT is America’s only Le Mans-winning car. That was back in 1966 and Ford won another three years in a row.

Ford Performance recalls this achievement in endurance racing with two new enhancements today for the 2021 Ford GT. One is the first ever Heritage Edition inspired by the original model’s first endurance win at the 1966 Daytona 24 Hour Continental race, plus an all-new Studio Collection package offers even more exclusivity and design enhancements.

“For this Heritage Edition, the Ford Performance team went deeper into the Ford GT’s race history and crafted a limited-edition model that stylistically honours the 55th anniversary of the Daytona 24 Hour endurance race that would eventually lead to our successes at Le Mans,” said Mike Severson, Ford GT program manager. “Plus, for customers who want to highlight the carbonfibre body and functional cooling ducts that help deliver Le Mans-winning performance, the Ford GT Studio Collection offers another new way GT fans can personalize their supercars.”

The Daytona-inspired Heritage Edition
The latest Heritage Edition to join the Ford GT supercar family is a tribute to the winner of the 1966 Daytona 24-Hour Continental, where Ford achieved its first 24-hour endurance win, which is captured in the 2019 film ‘Ford v Ferrari’ – or ‘Le Mans ’66’, as it is known in Europe.

Inspired by the bold white, black and red exterior of the 1966 GT40 MK II racing car, the Heritage Edition features Frozen White exterior paint with exposed carbonfibre bonnet adding stark contrast. Asymmetrical Race Red accents on the front fascia and roof edge, driver’s side door and underneath the rear wing add distinct visuals, while exposed carbonfibre shapes the signature 98 roundel graphics and highlight the lightweight body.

Unique Ford graphics on the lower rear-quarter panels plus one-piece Heritage Gold 20-inch forged-aluminium wheels paired with red lacquered Brembo monoblock brake calipers complete this new exterior livery.

Inside, the lightweight driver-centric interior features unique appointments including black Alcantara suede wrapping the instrument panel, headliner and steering wheel rim, while anodized red paddle shifters and red Alcantara suede performance seats add dramatic contrast to the interior.

For customers wanting an even bolder look, an optional Heritage Upgrade Package includes 20-inch exposed carbonfibre wheels with a unique gloss red-painted inner accent barrel, while monoblock brake calipers are lacquered in black and detailed with Brembo lettering in red. Inside, ghosted 98 roundels provide a subtle contrast on both driver and passenger carbonfibre door panels of this this package.

Ford GT Studio Collection
Ford Performance has also created an exclusive series for the supercar line-up known as the Ford GT Studio Collection. This all-new graphics package with customizable colours highlights key styling elements, including the functional cooling ducts that helps the 2021 Ford GT deliver all 660 horsepower during the most strenuous, high-temperature sessions at the track.

The body and graphics can be customized with seven standard colours or further personalized with an extended palette offering endless colour combinations for even greater exclusivity. Only 40 cars are slated to receive the Studio Collection package across the 2021 and 2022 model years.

Ford originally planned to make just 500 units over two years from 2016. But demand was so great (some 6,500 people wanted to buy one when it was announced) that another two years of production were added, raising total output to 1,000 units. Then in 2018, the company again extended the production period that was to have ended in 2020 to 2022, and added another 350 units.

So for now, production is to end in 2022 with a total of 1,350 units delivered. But with a new President, Jim Farley, coming on board and one who is a car guy – and even goes racing himself – things may change. We might even see more sports-focussed models in coming years…

Visit Sime Darby Auto ConneXion to know more about Ford models available in Malaysia, including the Mustang which comes with full aftersales support.

Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400 generates 1,400 horsepower! (w/VIDEO)

Even before the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E reaches its first customers in America at the end of this year, the carmaker has come out with a ‘special’ to show off its performance. The one-off Mustang is called the Mach-E 1400 and where, in the old days, the ‘1400’ might have referred to the engine size, in this case it refers to the output of 1,400 horsepower.

The prototype can generate that much power with 7 electric motors and not a drop of petrol is needed. The chassis and powertrain work together for a multitude of track set-ups offering capability unlike any other vehicle.

“Now is the perfect time to leverage electric technology, learn from it, and apply it to our line-up,” said Ron Heiser, Chief Program Engineer for the Mustang Mach-E. “Mustang Mach-E is going to be fun to drive, just like every other Mustang before it, but Mustang Mach-E 1400 is completely insane, thanks to the efforts of Ford Performance and RTR.”

The Mustang Mach-E 1400 is the result of 10,000 hours of collaboration by Ford Performance and RTR aimed at bridging the gap between what an electric vehicle can do and what customers tend to believe it can do.

“Getting behind the wheel of this car has completely changed my perspective on what power and torque can be,” said Vaughn Gittin Jr., RTR Vehicles founder, motorsports champion and professional fun-haver. “This experience is like nothing you’ve ever imagined, except for maybe a magnetic roller-coaster.”

The Mustang Mach-E 1400 has taken shape without rules. The Ford design team and RTR used many of the same tools Ford uses for its racing cars and production programs. Aerodynamics are optimized for shape and location, with a focus on cooling ducts, front splitter, dive planes and rear wing.

There are 5 extra electric motors compared to the Mustang Mach-E GT. Three are attached to the front differential and four are attached to the rear in pancake style, with a single driveshaft connecting them to the differentials, which have a huge range of adjustability to set the car up for everything from drifting to high-speed track racing.

“The challenge was controlling the extreme levels of power provided by the 7 motors,” said Mark Rushbrook, Motorsports Director, Ford Performance. “Mustang Mach-E 1400 is a showcase of the art of the possible with an electric vehicle.”

The chassis and powertrain are set up to allow the team to investigate different layouts and their effects on energy consumption and performance, including rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive.

Drift and track setups have completely different front end configurations like control arms and steering changes to allow for extreme steering angles in drifting. Power delivery can be split evenly between front and rear, or completely to one or the other. Downforce is targeted at more than 1,045 kgs at almost 260 km/h.

The 56.8-kWh battery pack contains nickel manganese cobalt pouch cells for ultra-high performance and a high discharge rate. The battery system is designed to be cooled during charging using a di-electric coolant, decreasing the time needed between runs.

An electronic brake booster is integrated to allow series regenerative braking combined with ABS and stability control to optimize the braking system. The Mustang Mach-E 1400 is fitted with Brembo brakes, like the Mustang GT4 racing car, and a hydraulic handbrake system designed for drifting that integrates with the powertrain controls to enable the ability to shut off power to the rear motors.

It is set to debut at a NASCAR race soon and will serve as a test bed for new materials. The bonnet is made of organic composite fibres, a lightweight alternative to the carbonfibre that is used on the rest of the bodywork.

The Ford Mustang is officially sold in Malaysia with full aftersales support and warranty. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is back!

The last time a Ford Mustang Mach 1 was displayed for sale in showrooms in America was 17 years ago. It’s never been forgotten by Mustang fans and there must also have been people within the company who wanted to see it revived with the latest generation.

Now it is back and like the original Mach 1 in 1969, the all-new descendant bridges the gap between Mustang GT and Shelby models. “Bold styling, great acceleration and speed – Mach 1 says it all,” said Jim Farley, Ford’s Chief Operating Officer. “This is one of those special Mustangs that truly brings a smile to the faces of our owners, enthusiasts and fans – including me – so there’s never been a better time to bring back Mach 1 and have it go global too.”

Most track-capable 5-litre Mustang
The all-new Mustang Mach 1 is set to become the most track-capable 5-litre Mustang ever, thanks to a newly designed front end, plus Ford Performance parts from the Mustang Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT500 models as well as an optional Handling Package for greater at-limit handling.

The specially tuned V8 engine has a projected 480 bhp at 7,000 rpm and 570 Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm. Integrated into the engine are revised Shelby GT350 components including the intake manifold, oil filter adapter and engine oil cooler, increasing engine oil cooling capability by 50%.

The Mach 1 also comes standard with a Tremec 3160 6-speed manual transmission from the Shelby GT350. And for the first time, Ford has added rev-matching while the transmission is paired with the GT350 oil cooler system and the Mustang GT’s twin-disc clutch and short-throw shifter.

Drivers can also opt for the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with an upgraded torque converter and unique calibration that enables optimizing torque capability, shift character and overall enhanced performance. A second air-to-oil cooler increases cooling capacity by 75%.

Recapturing Mach 1 style
The new Mach 1’s grille harkens back to the original with a deep 3D mesh, shark-nosed section and faux lamp elements. Flanking the fascia are new side grilles below each turn signal lamp. A low-gloss Magnetic pony badge is centered on the grille, with low-gloss magnetic and black accents providing a premium look. Yet everything is true to Mach 1’s bold heritage, including low-gloss Magnetic mirror caps and the rear spoiler.

Focus on downforce
A front splitter optimized to the fascia shape improves track performance and provides a more aggressive appearance, while a matched rear spoiler works in concert to create ideal lift balance. Mach 1 features 22% more downforce than a Mustang GT with Performance Pack Level 1 and the downforce improvement jumps to approximately 150% with the Handling Package.

A new underbelly pan, the car’s most aerodynamically important upgrade, extends further rearward than on a Mustang GT Performance Pack to smooth and increase the airflow under the front of the car. Large underwing features in the belly pan increase downforce, while special belly pan airfoils in the brake cooling ramps improve downforce and assist the brake cooling flow – a first for Mustang.

The interior features a unique Dark Spindrift instrument panel with aluminium accents. Ebony seats with an accent stripe hint at Mach 1 heritage in cars equipped with a leather interior. Other interior upgrades include new door sill plates, an updated splash screen on the 12.3-inch all-LCD instrument cluster, a white cue ball shift knob, and engraved badging that displays the vehicle’s unique chassis number.

This generation of the Mustang is the first one which has righthand drive variants engineered and built at the factory for wider global sales. However, for now, Ford will only concentrate on supplying to the North American market.

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion also offers the latest Mustang with 2.3-litre EcoBoost and 5-litre engines. Visit www.sdacford.com.my to know more.

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