We’re finally getting the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor soon, and we know it will be a beast. However, other countries will get the new Ford Ranger Raptor first, which is a little upsetting. Other countries may have cooler models too. 

Why are some Ford Ranger Raptor models banned in the United States? 

The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor will be the first Ranger Raptor model available in the United States. Meanwhile, Australia, South American countries, and more have already had a few super cool Ranger Raptor models. 

For example, the 2021 Ford Ranger Raptor X is from Australia. It has a 2.0-liter diesel twin turbo-four engine with 210 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque. The Ranger Raptor X is available with a five-speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission. 

The Ranger Raptor X comes with17-inch blacked-out alloy wheels wrapped in 33-inch BG Goodrich All-Terrain tires, red tow hooks, a pair of extended leg sports bars, racing stripes, and red accent stitching. 

Previously, the Ranger Raptor wasn’t available in the United States because the exclusive diesel engine failed to meet the United State’s higher emission standards. Plus, if the truck was manufactured overseas, it may have been subject to the expensive chicken tax. This is a 25 percent tariff on light trucks imported to the U.S. 

Will the 2023 Ranger Raptor be better in other countries? 

Other countries may get unique versions of the 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor that we can’t have. The Ranger Raptor will debut on February 22, so we will learn more in a few days. 

However, other countries will get the new Ranger Raptor first. It still has a more prominent focus overseas. They might not be better, but they could better fit the needs of people in other countries. 

The Ranger Raptor could gain the standard 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque from the Bronco. The Bronco’s 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque might be more exciting. 

According to Motor Authority, other countries may get a new diesel option. It could gain the 2.7-liter V6 diesel engine with 250 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. Also, the American version is expected to be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. We might not gain a manual option, which stinks for hardcore off-roading fans. 

What do we know about the 2023 Ranger Raptor? 

The 2023 Ford Ranger Raptor will be manufactured in Wayne, Michigan, where the Ford Bronco is built. Production is expected to start during the second quarter of 2023. This could mean that the Ranger Raptor shares parts with the Ford Bronco Raptor. 

Along with standard all-wheel drive, the Ranger Raptor may come with Fox 3.1 internal bypass semi-active dampers, 17-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, and springs from the F-150 Raptor. 

Rumors suggest that a hybrid powertrain is in the works, but that may arrive later. An all-electric version could be in the works too. The new Ranger is currently planned to have an eight-year production run. 

So, the Ranger Raptor we see next week is only the beginning. Other countries may get diesel and manual options, but we could get them in the United States. We will keep you updated as we learn more.