WHEN it comes to capable pick-up trucks, the Ford Ranger ticks all the right boxes. Introduce some beefy Raptor treatment and sporty stripes to the mix and the result is a whole different beast.

That's because the Ranger Raptor Special Edition commands attention wherever it passes with its outrageous, in-your-face styling and attitude to match.

Admittedly with a price-tag of £54,940, it's not exactly cheap, but for that outlay you get a double-cab pick-up truck that can deliver the goods both on and off-road.

Eye-catching design cues include LED headlights with black surrounds, privacy glass, black and red decals, Raptor badging, a black sports bar, a black Raptor grille, plus black 17-inch wheels with huge 33-inch tyres.

Climb aboard, with the assistance of grab handles and wide side steps and you will discover a modern, practical and well designed cabin. The sporty cloth seats are neatly upholstered and featured Raptor badging - they are also power-adjustable and can be heated.

The Ford SYNC 3 eight-inch infotainment system offers access to the sat nav, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, plus a fixed rearview camera. In addition, a wi-fi hotspot allows occupants to connect their devices on the move.

There is a completely separate panel for all the climate control functions which is well thought out as it results in less driver distraction than fiddly touchscreen menus found on some models.

The Ranger Raptor Special Edition (SE) is powered by a 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbo-diesel engine delivering 213PS and 500Nm of torque. It can hit 62mph from a standing start in 9.0 seconds and maxes out at 112mph, while delivering a combined 31.7mpg (if you are very careful) with carbon emissions of 201-204g/km.

The engine is matched to a well-timed 10-speed automatic gearbox with large steering wheel-mounted paddles for added driver fun. And the Raptor SE model features upgraded Fox suspension for improved ride comfort.

Despite its aggressive looks, the Raptor SE is great fun and fairly easy to drive. It cruises effortlessly on motorways, but does feel oversized when driving along narrower roads, especially as this model is 15cm wider than a standard Ranger. However, the elevated seating offers excellent driver visibility across the hedgerows which is a bonus.

The steering is fairly light making it easy to manoeuvre in busier, city traffic, but you may need to think twice if you're planning on parking in a ‘normal' sized space.

Although we stuck firmly to the Tarmac on this occasion, the Ranger Raptor SE is very capable when tackling off-road obstacles - if any owner is actually brave enough to go there. And for family getaways, it can tow a caravan weighing up to 2.5 tonnes with terrain management, including six selectable drive modes.

However, there is a downside to the model. With a payload of 620kg, it is lower than the standard Ranger. And as it falls below the HMRC's one-tonne limit, it fails to qualify as a commercial vehicle. That means business owners will not be able to claim back the 20 per cent tax relief. However, as it is still fundamentally a Ranger, it is taxed as a commercial vehicle at a set rate of £290 rather than a fee based on carbon emissions.

But, these are not really issues that are likely to deter any potential buyers. Simply the thought of having the Raptor SE on their driveway will be enough. And imagine the street cred on the school run!

There is room in the back of the cab for a couple of passengers, but legroom is not that generous. Storage options are good though witha split-level central cubby box, front and rear cup holders, trays, a glovebox, plus seat back pockets. Another clever feature is an aerodynamic hoop over the load bed with a light for any night-time working.

The Ford Ranger was awarded the maximum five stars when tested for its Euro NCAP safety rating and the Raptor SE is packed with the same features. These include a collision mitigation system, anti-lock brakes, electric power assisted steering, lane keeping aid, intelligent speed assistance and plenty more besides.