2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: Review

American car manufacturer Ford has rich and successful history with trucks and its Ford F-150 has been best-selling truck for decades not only in US but in Canada as well. Thirteen generation of this machine have proven its value but Ford likes to push boundaries and it made big waves in automobile industry when it introduced high-performance off-road version called Raptor. This brave and risky project have proven itself in Baja desert race but also on the market. This model doesn’t wins on charm despite it looks macho yet it likes showing muscles.

The first version was equipped with 5.2 liter V-8 engine and after it transferred on the larger 6.2 liter V-8 engine. However, new Raptor will follow downsizing trend and smaller displacement will found way in the new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor. The power isn’t proportional with size in case of this engine but however Ford has done more work on mechanics to back up this raw power and new model will bring upgraded suspension, stronger chassis, lighter body, new transmission, and new terrain management system. This will however be the second generation model and there is no doubt that Raptor will enter in new age with style.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: Performance

Of course when it is about new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor that all attention is turned to the performance of this model and Ford has done serous work there. It is the best to start from the heart of this machine and there Ford has given its best. Between the fenders of new Raptor, Ford will nestle all new 3.5 EcoBoost V-6 engine. This engine is twin-turbocharged, direct injected, intercooled DOHC 24-valve machine which as Ford claims capable to deliver more power and torque than outgoing 6.2 liter V-8. Exact power and torque figures are still mystery but more than 411 HP and 434 pound-feet of torque will be there on demand. However some projections suggest that this engine will be capable to deliver as much as 450 ponies. It is certainly impressive score for notably smaller displacement. Of course, the engine will be also more fuel efficient but for precise numbers will have to wait for official announcement. To transfer all that power and torque and also to provide smooth and precise shifting, Ford designed new 10-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles for new Raptor. It’s not all and for power distribution and management between front and rear wheels will be improved transfer case with mechanical-locking four-wheel drive. There will also be new driver-controlled terrain management system which will tailor braking, transmission, traction and other parameters according to terrain and conditions trough six modes including Street, Normal, Weather, than Mud and Sand and Baja mode as well. Suspension of this model has also been under revision and it now sports 3 inch Fox Racing shocks and suspension travel will also be higher. There will also be improved aluminum front control arms and new dual exhaust system. Raptor will be underpinned with the the fully boxed frame which is the strongest in the F-150 lineup and with other performance upgrades this Raptor without doubt will be exceptionally capable machine.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: Design, Features

The base design of all-new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor derives from the newest conventional F-150 and it has been upgraded to reflect Raptor’s exceptional capabilities. Tough, rugged appearance with higher ground clearance allows Raptor to tackle all kind off terrains thanks to proven approach and departure angles. What is also important, it is six inches wider and it guarantees improved stability. As all Ford F-150s, the Raptor is planted on high-strength fully boxed frame which provides unmatched rigidity and military-grade aluminum alloy is what its body is made from. The result is about 500 pounds reduced total weight compared to outgoing version. The model will ride on new 17-inch wheels that are wrapped in all-terrain tires. On the front side, new Raptor proudly carries signature grille and attractive LED headlights which provide enhanced visibility. Large front skied plate is also noticeable up front. Small front and rear bumpers are also there, flared fenders and front fender air vents. Rear side displays large FORD lettering on tailgate and dual exhaust outlets are bellow. New Raptor comes with two cab styles including SuperCab and SuperCrew cab. SuperCrew cab model rides on a 145 inches wheelbase which means 12 additional inches compared to SuperCab versions. This new version features full size four doors and provides more room inside.

Inside the cabin we will whiteness sports seats deeply padded and with contrasting stitching. Interior trim will feature carbon fiber accents on some areas and there is also leather wrapped steering wheel with stylized shift paddles. Large center display flanked by pair of air vents will be situated in the middle of dash above illuminated rotary knobs. Tall center console offer place for cup holders for front and rear passengers and practical storage compartment. SuperCrew Cab configuration gives generous leg room. Rear bench seat can be folded to allow access for loading on the flat floor. Model will include 360-degree camera system and we expect company to reveal full specs about this model soon.

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor: Arrival, Price

We know that 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor will be worth all money we pay but before company publish price of this model we will place bet on starting price of around $46,000. It will go on sale this fall.

Leave a Comment