DRIVE SOUTH AFRICA: Route 62 in a Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition

You’re off to Great Places!
Today is your day!
Your mountain is waiting,
So… get on your way!

WATCH:

Our mountain to climb is at Gamkaberg Nature Reserve and we’ll get there in a bit – but first meander with us through Route 62 in the comfort of the Ford Ranger Raptor Special Edition. 

Route 62 connects Cape Town to Gqeberha and is one of the most charming routes to travel in South Africa – with a smile at every stop, some question marks along the way, there are tons of hidden treasures to uncover.

Much like the route, the Ranger Raptor Special Edition has something extraordinary about it  which makes it the perfect companion to jaunt along this fascinating route.

The special edition gives the raptor a facelift – it adds a little more roar to the exterior. Red stickers line the bonnet, roof and sides and there are a few minor tweaks inside like the bright red stitching on the seats and steering wheel.

One of the most colourful pitstops along Route 62 is Ronnie’s Sex Shop – get your mind out of the gutter it’s not what you think.

As the story goes… Ronnie was simply upgrading his farm stand named ‘Ronnie’s when his friends pranked him and painted the words sex shop alongside his name. So Ronnie changed direction and opened a bar instead. You have to see it to believe it!

This Raptor has a two litre Diesel engine and the drive is as smooth as they come. This range has become so much more than a muscle 4×4 – the features are simple enough for anyone to drive – and the fact that it doubles as a comfortable family vehicle is an added bonus. 

And as you muscle your way up the steep incline of the Gamkaberg Nature Reserve, along rocky roads with a sheer drop – the Raptor kicks into beast mode, and you’re left to take in the beauty that surrounds you.

Route 62 passes through the scenic route of Calitzdorp, Ladismith, Barrydale, Montagu, Ashton, Bonnievale and Robertson to name a few. You must stop over at quirky stores and eateries – there’s a guarantee of meeting the most hospitable locals and feeding your soul with the magic of South African culture. 

There’s also no better way to enjoy it other than in a Ranger Raptor Special Edition.

SPECS:

• 157kW/500Nm 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine
• steering wheel-mounted magnesium paddle shifters
• 10-speed automatic gearbox
• Priced at R950 200
• Raptor-grade interior
• suede sports seats
• black roller shutter bin cover