The Ford Ranger Raptor Isn't As Customizable As We'd Hoped

Our Australian counterparts are a lucky bunch. While America makes do with the outgoing Ford Ranger, our truck-loving friends from Down Under have already received the new model - production kicked off in May. And they've already had to contend with dealers placing ridiculous markups atop the MSRP.

We'll have to wait until 2023 to get our hands on the Ranger and Ranger Raptor. So, to pass the time, American consumers can play around with Ford Australia's configurator to see what options are available. We must note that not all options and trims will make it to the US, but it gives us a good idea of what to expect when the truck arrives.

Six trim levels are available. The lineup kicks off with the AUD $47,494 (approx. $32,800) XL trim. This workhorse is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbodiesel as standard and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. Four-wheel-drive can be specified at extra cost. While we admire the rugged functionality of the base model, we're much more interested in the Raptor.

With a starting price of AUD $92,127 (approx. $63,600), the Raptor is nearly double the price of the base XL. One powertrain is available: a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that sends 392 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels via a ten-speed auto box.

The only no-cost color choice is Arctic White. If you want your Ranger to pop, you'll need to fork out AUD$675 (approx. $466) for the seven other color choices, which include Code Orange, Sedona Black, and, our choice, Blue Lightning. If you're not a fan of standard wheels, Ford is offering Australian buyers AUD$2,000 (approx. $1,380) Beadlock capable wheels.

In the spirit of building the priciest Ranger, we'll add it to the build. Sadly, that's where it ends. The Ranger Raptor isn't as customizable as we'd hoped. Only one interior option is available and, while the standard leather with orange accents looks good, we were hoping for more. The total price comes to AUD$94,883 (approx. $65,560).

Here in the US, buyers have more choices in terms of customizing the F-150 Raptor. Fewer exterior colors are available, but the bigger truck strikes back with several optional packages, from a $995 Carbon Fiber package to a $1,075 Raptor Exterior Graphic package. There are three wheel designs, two tire options from the factory, and a bevy of additional accessories.

If you're not a fan of the black upholstery, the F-150 Raptor comes with sporty Recaro bucket seats trimmed in blue leather. We're guessing more options and accessories will be offered for the Ranger Raptor in America, as local consumers enjoy adding a personal touch to their off-roaders.

Elsewhere in the lineup, Australian buyers can choose from the XLS, XLT, Sport, and Wildtrak trim levels. We expect the new Ranger to retain the American trim levels (XLT, Lariat, etc) and also offer unique powertrain options better suited to local tastes.