Ford Raptor. Dubai, UAE. Extinction? Pah!

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Back on the case, the Raptor is really beginning to sing. So far nothing has fazed it. Yes you are fully aware of the live rear axle and the truck basis, but that doesn’t kill the vibe at all. The MASSIVE 35″ tyres supplied by BF Goodrich have again been modified just for the Raptor (the story of the car) and the super simple Off Road system on-board is constantly tweaking and playing with the transmission, stability and traction control to get us on the straight and narrow.

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Mind you, 2WD with the diff locked up, TC switched off and a heavy right foot is the setting of choice.

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Delving deeper into the mountains brought a kids dream. Puddles! If you were the kind of kid that liked to splash in puddles when you were young, then you’ve GOT to give the Raptor a try. Much bigger splashes than your first bicycle!

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Well we just had to, didn’t we?!

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Meanwhile Laurie was up front in his highly modified Jeep. Clearly in it’s element in the rocky terrain. However, what was really interesting was how the factory-stock, untouched Raptor fresh from the showroom was completely undaunted by anything the Wadi could throw at it.

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Why is driving through water in cars so much fun?

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The final destination. A stunning plunge pool right at the end of the Wadi. Prior to taking the Raptor up there, we had to let Laurie go through in the Jeep and double check everything was okay. Being such a big beast, the tight and technical section was possibly the only area of we thought would bring problems. But nope!

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No question here, this is one category where Ford comes out on top…

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and after a relaxing couple of hours swimming in the pool and investigating, it was time to pack up and head back (this never gets old).

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So far the Raptor had done exactly what it said on the tin. The rocks and water crossings were the real surprise though. Looking at the obstacles in front of you and knowing the Raptor is a very big vehicle you are constantly in fear that the rocks are ever present and all too eager to make their mark on your paintwork. The reality was a different thing though. Sitting high on those 35″ tyres, you’re nowhere near!

Categories: Road

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