Ford Ranger Raptor Triumphs in 2025 CarsAwards: The Ultimate Double Cab in South Africa

Karen Scheepers
Apr 19
3 min read

The South African bakkie market is one of the most fiercely contested segments in the automotive industry, with double-cab bakkies serving as both rugged workhorses and premium lifestyle vehicles. In the 2025 CarsAwards – South Africa’s prestigious consumer awards, sponsored by Absa – the Ford Ranger Raptor emerged victorious in the Ultimate Double Cab category, reaffirming its dominance as the ultimate all-terrain performance bakkie.

The Ultimate Double Cab Category

Double-cab bakkies have long outgrown their utilitarian origins, now serving as powerful, multi-functional lifestyle vehicles. In the Ultimate Double Cab category of the 2025 CarsAwards, eligibility required bakkies to be:

✅ Priced above R750 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting

✅ A four-door double-cab pick-up

✅ Equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD) and automatic transmission

✅ Offering a minimum ground clearance of 200 mm

Finalists were judged across key performance areas, including:

Performance (power, acceleration, handling)
Space & Practicality (interior room, cargo space)
In-Car Technology (infotainment, connectivity)
Comfort & Ride Quality
All-Surface Ability (off-road performance, terrain response)
Safety Features (driver assistance systems, crash protection)
Towing & Load-Carrying Ability

2025 Finalists: Ford Ranger Raptor vs Toyota Hilux GR Sport

The competition was intense, with two legendary bakkies battling for the top spot:

1️⃣ Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0T V6 4WD

2️⃣ Toyota Hilux GR Sport

After rigorous testing across South Africa’s diverse terrain, the Ford Ranger Raptor clinched victory with an impressive 73.7% overall score, securing its position as the best double-cab bakkie in the country.

Why the Ford Ranger Raptor Won

Powerful Performance

The Ranger Raptor is the most performance-focused bakkie in its class, powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine producing 292 kW and 583 Nm of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, it delivers exhilarating acceleration and top-tier off-road capability.

Race-Ready Suspension

Designed with Ford Performance DNA, the Raptor features FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shock absorbers, offering incredible adaptability on rough terrain. A reinforced chassis, Watts link rear suspension, and bespoke upper and lower control arms further enhance its ruggedness.

Advanced Off-Road Technology

With seven selectable drive modes, including the exhilarating Baja mode, the Raptor is built to conquer any surface. Front and rear locking differentials and 850 mm wading depth make it the most capable off-roader in its segment.

High-Tech Cabin & Connectivity

The interior is designed for both luxury and adventure, featuring:

🔹 12-inch digital instrument cluster

🔹 12-inch SYNC®4 touchscreen infotainment

🔹 Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

🔹 B&O Premium Audio System

🔹 Leather and Alcantara-trimmed sport seats

Unmatched Safety & Convenience

Standard safety features include:

✔ 360-degree camera system

✔ Adaptive cruise control with lane centering

✔ Blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage

✔ Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)

✔ Reverse brake assist

Tough Yet Stylish

With Matrix LED headlights, a blacked-out grille, and signature Code Orange accents, the Raptor’s bold design ensures it stands out both on and off the road.

Service & Warranty

The Ford Ranger Raptor comes with a 4-year/120 000 km warranty. Optional service and maintenance plans are available for up to 8 years or 165 000 km, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.

A True Performance Bakkie

The 2025 CarsAwards reaffirm that the Ford Ranger Raptor is more than just a bakkie—it’s a performance machine built for adventure. Whether conquering rocky trails, sprinting down highways, or providing a luxurious ride, the Raptor sets the standard for double-cab excellence in South Africa.