The top of the range XLT Double Cab and Wildtrak variants have the 2.0 litre diesel engine which pumps out 157kW of power and 500Nm of torque. It's the same engine used by Ford in its high-performance, off-road Ranger Raptor.

A similar XLT with the 3.2 litre engine will churn out 147kW and 470Nm. The XLT 4x4 has a payload of 1003kg and maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg.

Kondinin Group was able to get behind the wheel of the Ranger Raptor for a short drive this week and first impressions are good.

The cab is exceptionally quiet, even on gravel roads, and comfortable. There is also plenty of poke from the 2.0 litre engine and the power delivery is smooth through a 10-speed transmission which can be operated by steering wheel paddles if needed.

In the cab there is no shortage of creature comforts such as keyless entry, colour touch screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto and leather-wrapped seats.

Current pricing on the Raptor is $80,000 including on road costs. Thanks to Delatite Ford in Benalla, Victoria for the test drive.

Kondinin Group hopes to conduct a thorough test of the new Ranger in November.