Thursday, May 16, 2019

Premium SUV versus Sport truck: Is the 2019 Toyota Fortuner better than the 2019 Ford Ranger Raptor?


SUVs are the rage for car buyers and it’s safe to say that Filipinos prefer them to passenger cars. But, is spending your hard earned cash on Raptor pickup? Most car buyers may buy into that and the 2019 Fortuner is better than the Ford Ranger Raptor for reasons that will be made obvious. Predictably, the qualities that were associated with the Ford F-150 large pickup are ascribed to the Ranger Raptor which gave a very good impression though. Now, what makes the Toyota Fortuner better without add-ons similar to the Raptor? Surely the Raptor would have the edge, but it boils down to these subtle differences that make anyone think twice. Despite the Baja truck factor of the Raptor which the Fortuner SUV doesn’t lag far behind in. Just remember that both are SUVs and share the same bolt-on, a ladder-type frame which is a very sturdy chassis too!

A. Body style,interior and chassis used. The two vehicles have their difference but both offer different advantages in regard to the chassis, differences in the body is quite obvious. One has truckbed and the other is wagon body,with significantly more room. Despite the sporty trim of the b-turbo raptor, it’s still no match for the refined interior of the Fortuner.Keep in mind that the interior of the Fortuner is for upper scale and semi-luxury appointments. Inside the Raptor are many improvements on the Ranger though it may not measure up to the Fortuner.

B. Engine and performance Engines used by the Raptor and Fortuner are both very different because of the displacement and type of turbo used by either SUV. Equipping the pickup is the two-litre-bi-turbo engine that is capable of two-hundred horsepower and five-hundred-foot pounds of torque. Unfortunately, the Raptor’s engine is only the two-litre option. Under the hood of the Toyota SUV wagon is either a two-litre or a two-point-eight engine which have a varying horsepower of 174 Ps and torque of 450. Naturally aspirated engines are better and don’t need extra piping for oil that is used to lub because of high heat! Though when it comes to the suspension systems , the Raptor is better than the Fortuner too. Just remember both are four-wheel-drive and can handle tough lumps and bumps. Is it necessary to have expensive suspension parts when driving on city streets? Add up the complex bi-turbo and suspension of the Raptor, compared to the supple layout of the Fortuner which is cheaper to maintain. Let’s not forget they are both four-wheel drive vehicles that are rear wheel drive, for better traction on any road surface.

C. Safety features Both are the top of their class for the sport pickup and the SUV category without a doubt. Standard safety features like stability control, hill start assist, Anti-lock brakes, brake assist, electronic brake distribution, and disc on disc brakes for the front and rear. Other high tech safeties include collision warning, with rear cam and front and back sonar for parking assist. Each is equipped with dual, side, curtain, and knee airbags for driver protection when in a collision. Extras that either has is Hill Descent Control and extra features that improve safety further and for everyone’s better peace of mind! Securing the driver and passengers is 3-pt. ELR seat belts,pre-tensioners and force limiters, last are the Isofix latches for car seats. All car brands have almost the same safety equipment, especially most premium models sold. Installing advanced sensors and other driving aids is standard for all car makers to get the most sold model!

D. Interior features and comfort features Inside the passenger compartment the Raptor has different trim from the Ranger, but almost the same layout and a few changes. Giving the upgraded Raptor a lifestyle truck vibe when contrasted with standard trim for the Ranger pickup. The Fortuner is far better because of passenger comfort and is made for city driving too. There might be some differences in the ride of either, because of the more advanced dampers of the Raptor. Not to make the Fortuner any less a performer with its premium dampers too. One main difference between the Raptor and the Fortuner is how many passengers can fit. But, go beyond that with each having auto ACs that are multi-zone, multi-function touchscreen with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for infotainment. Every amenity for the passengers like cup holders, pockets, plug-in power socket, and even one-touch start button for fast starts are included in top trims for both! Between the two vehicles, there isn’t much difference except for the truck bed!

E. Price of the Fortuner and the Raptor Will you go for the more expensive Fortuner or a lesser cost of less than 245,000 for the Raptor? You get premium SUVs that are cost-effective for rain or shine. Power and performance are best for these options, with the best safety, interior features as trim which is a hard act to follow. Other similar models aren’t as full-featured, like them which is something to consider. Toyota has a good reputation for reliability and high standards and customer satisfaction. While Ford is not exactly on the level with Toyota’s reputation when it comes to reliability. Although Ford is known for advanced features and toughness. Maybe, the tie-breaker is the tag price or whatever is the car buyer’s taste!
1. Fortuner 4x4 2.8 V Diesel A/T ₱2,245,000 
2. Ford Ranger Raptor 2.0 bi-turbo 4X4 AT ₱ 1,998,000

Conclusion
Which is the better one? Is true that the 2019 Fortuner is better than the Ford Ranger Raptor or the opposite? The Raptor is just new when compared to the Fortuner and comparing both at this point is too premature. Will it be a fancy sport truck or a premium SUV to choose from? But, don’t forget the more complicated and expensive maintenance of a bi-turbo as well. Car buyers must decide, but the Fortuner is one of the best selling SUVs in the market now. What will be the better choice that will suffice should depend on choosing the best option.

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This is my personal blog. The opinions expressed here represent my own. In addition, my thoughts and opinions change from time to time I consider this a necessary consequence of having an open mind. This blog disclaimer is subject to change at anytime without notifications.