Reporter's Notebook: The Newest Icon on The Plinth
On a rare occasion, there would be a vehicle that I would work with that would create permanent space in my memory bank.
It has been over a month since I worked with that 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor. The memories, the experience, and everything else that went with this amazing beast, still linger as I am healing from my latest round of health challenges.
Why has this off-road master still permeate my brain?
On a rare occasion, there would be a vehicle that I would work with that would create permanent space in my memory bank. So far, there's been a few vehicles that have done exactly that. They show up on the “My Favorites” column almost on regular basis. They also become answers to your questions about my favorite vehicles that I've worked with.
Sometimes I wish I had a file on my phone that would have a list of these vehicles.
The Bronco Raptor is not the first Ford that would appear on this lofty list. There are vehicles from Lexus, Genesis, and some other scattered models from various manufacturers that do appear on this list. These vehicles serve as reminders of the volume and quality of work that I put forth in this business. In particular, this website.
Getting to this point took some work, but not without some lucky breaks. However, the drive and determination to deliver good quality content through the written word and, now, video have been paying off. Even if it's just small amounts.
Working with the likes of the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor, 2021 Ford F150 Raptor, 2023 Genesis G90, 2015 Lexus RC F, 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack…among others…helped in multiple ways towards creating good content. They are points of engagement between you and me.
I can gauge your curiosity. I can also gauge your interest. These are measurements that are taken seriously.
Yet, one should actually have some fun working with these vehicles. And why not?
These vehicles I've listed so far, as well as others not listed in this article, represent another side to this work. It is not all serious, as I pointed out. When one actually gets behind the wheel of some of these very cool vehicles, I have to admit that a happy side of me comes out.
Granted, it doesn't seem all professional. Yet, I still maintain a level of responsibility that you have to sign away I want to order for me to work with these vehicles.
Then again, the fun side of me comes out. And, therefore, why not?
In a sense, these vehicles are professional therapy. They can be seen as escape pods. All the while, I'm still gathering data and impressions towards creating content. That is what I signed up for every time I accept a new vehicle to work with.
In my 12 years, I've been able to work with four Raptor models from Ford Performance. I know, they are normally thirstier than their run-of-the-mill counterparts. But, how can you not have a huge smile on your face when you have a lifted pickup truck or SUV with big old tires and small alloy wheels, soft suspension, and a growl that comes from under the hood out to their big exhausts?
The same goes for the four Lexus F Performance models that I have worked with over the same period of time. Each one represents a different side of the Lexus brand. One, that offers maximum performance from their V8 engines with superb handling creating a great experience every time.
I could also say the same with some of the latest models from the Genesis brand. As I have said over the years, I love a little bit of luxury. A level of luxury that is not Teutonic nor contrived. I will state for the record that I admire what the Hyundai Motor Group has done with their luxury brand. it is an intersection of old school comfy luxury with breakthrough technology.
There is also a scattering of other vehicles that I could throw into this list. Such as a nod to bringing big muscle to today's modern offerings, especially from Dodge. I also admire what Volvo has done to keep themselves relevant in the premium vehicle space. Not to mention, I do have a soft spot for some Volkswagen, Acura, Honda, and Toyota models.
Why are these specific brands and manufacturers mentioned in this article? To me, it always comes down to execution. The way these automobiles have been engineered and assembled are part of the overall lasting impressions that I have. The ultimate measurement is the smile on my face. Along with the stories that come from these vehicles.
No metric or measurement can truly confirm the absolute subjective side of these vehicles. They do help. In all honesty, it does come down to what I have gleaned and recalled from these very special vehicles.
Therefore, that 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor has been elevated to this lofty list. For many good reasons. Reasons that confirm its place in my memory bank – and my professional heart. It now has reached its elevation onto a new plinth in my book.'
All photos by Randy Stern