Ford not currently planning U.S.-spec Ranger Raptor

Never say never, though.

The Ford Ranger Raptor sold in many global markets might not join the F-150 Raptor in American showrooms after all, according to a new report.

Hermann Salenbauch, the head of Ford Performance, downplayed rumors of an American-spec Ranger Raptor during a media event. Motor1 learned that's because the model was developed primarily as a way to spread Raptor performance in markets where the F-150 is far too large, like southeast Asia.

Size is just one piece of the equation; fuel efficiency is another. While the F-150 Raptor gets a twin-turbocharged V6 fed by a tank that would cost a fortune to fill up in some countries, the Ranger boasts a more fuel-efficient twin-turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine good for 211 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

The decision isn't set in stone, and Motor1 notes Ford's product plan could change in the coming years, especially if the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison set to go on sale in January 2019 does well. Trademark applications hint at an American-spec Ranger Raptor, though it's worth noting that companies routinely protect nameplates without having concrete plans of ever using them.

At least one top Ford Performance official is rooting for an American-spec Ranger Raptor. Jamal Hameedi, the sub-division's chief engineer, previously voiced his support for the model because "Raptors are a slam dunk for the U.S." He noted that Americans would prefer a gasoline engine, however.