If there was one easy criticism of the Ford Ranger Raptor, it would be the choice of a diesel powertrain. Petrolheads are craving authentic muscle and it appears that Hennessey Performance has the solution.

While we like the 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged diesel setup in the new Ford Ranger Raptor, we do find ourselves asking if diesel is the most appropriate fuel for a performance bakkie. Hennessey Performance has killed 2 birds with 1 stone as it not only replaces the diesel engine with a petrol-powered engine but also gives the American market a hardcore Ranger as the Ranger Raptor is not sold there. This is the 2019 Hennessey VelociRaptor Ford Ranger!

Hennessey Performance is famous for its work on the F-150 Raptor and has used its bakkie expertise on the current Ford Ranger, which is sold in the United States with a turbocharged 2.3-litre petrol engine. In stock tune, it delivers 200 kW and 420 Nm, but after some under-the-bonnet work from Hennessey Performance, power is increased to 261 kW and521 Nm. These gains are achieved thanks to the addition of a new high-flow air induction kit, less restrictive stainless steel exhaust system as well as an engine control unit (ECU) reflash. In terms of acceleration, the uprated Ranger hits 100 kph in a claimed 6.1 seconds, which is a 1.3-second improvement.

However, there's so much more to this vehicle than just engine performance. It also features proper offroad kit in the form of Hennessey's Stage 1 suspension upgrade which sees ride height increased by 10 cm. There are also monster BF Goodrich All-Terrain Tires 285/70 R17 offroad tyres and for those wanting more offroad goodies, you can opt for a winch too. Flared wheel arches are thrown into the mix for some proper visual appeal.

“We are so excited to introduce our2019 Hennessey VelociRaptorupgrades for the2019 Ford Ranger truck,” said company founder & CEO,John Hennessey. “The demand for our VelociRaptor upgrades for the Ford Raptor truck has been incredible over the past 10 years. We are thrilled to be able to offer increased power, performance – on and off-road all packed in our exclusively-branded VelociRaptor package.”

As for the price, well Hennessey will sell you one for$64 950 which comes to around R900 500, before import duty.Hennessey will be making just 500 of these bad boys, and for the American market who don't have access to the Ranger Raptor, this is the next best thing.

Hennessey VelociRaptor vs Ford F-150 Raptor Drag Race

Further Reading

Ford Ranger Raptor (2019) Launch Review

Building the Ford Ranger Raptor

First Ford Ranger Raptor Built in SA

Ford Ranger Raptor: 7 Things You Need to Know