2023 Ford F-150 Raptor

Overview

The Ford F-150 Raptor is a SCORE off-road trophy truck living in an asphalt world. It wears extra-wide fenders, long-travel suspension, big tires, and the high-performance demeanor of a Baja-bashing race truck. It even earned a place on our 10Best Trucks and SUVs list for 2023. Most Raptors are powered by a twin-turbo 450-hp V-6 bolted to a 10-speed automatic transmission and will remain so in 2023. However, an even wilder, more powerful Raptor R is coming for 2023 using a version 700-hp version of the Mustang Shelby GT500's supercharged 5.2-liter V-8, which will finally give the 702-hp Ram TRX something intimidating to snort at. While the R comes standard with 37-inch BFGoodrich K02 tires, standard rubber for twin-turbo V-6 models measures at 35 inches, but 37s are optional. Despite the Raptor's enormity, it has one of the smoothest rides we've experienced in a full-size pickup. That long-travel suspension, which is specifically designed to absorb the bumps, dips, and jumps of high-speed off-roading, is wonderfully soft and forgiving over everyday potholes and lumpy pavement. Rocks and dunes aside, fitting this size-XXL F-150 down a narrow road or into a parking spot might well be the Raptor's biggest obstacle.

Where This Vehicle Ranks

1

Ram 1500

STARTING AT: $39,305

2

Ram 1500 TRX

STARTING AT: $86,450

3

Ford F-150

STARTING AT: $35,680

4

Ford F-150 Raptor

STARTING AT: $78,480

5

GMC Sierra 1500

STARTING AT: $37,445

6

Chevrolet Silverado 1500

STARTING AT: $36,645

What's New for 2023?

Ford adds the mega-horsepower F-150 Raptor R for 2023. The Raptor R uses a 700-hp supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 Predator engine from the Mustang GT500. Underneath, a 9.75-inch rear axle with an electronically controlled locking rear differential with a 4:10:1 ratio will come standard. While 37-inch tires are standard equipment, Ford also gives the R stiffer front springs and specially tuned dampers to handle the extra weight. Raptor R's come standard with carbon-fiber accents throughout the cabin and an upholstery mixed with black leather and microsuede with Recaro front seats.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The F-150 Raptor is only offered with a crew-cab body style called SuperCrew. Deciding between the more affordable EcoBoost V-6 model and more powerful V-8 R model is a tough call. If we take an objective look at the math, the numbers show that the base price for the Raptor R is about 40 percent more expensive than the base price for the 'regular' Raptor, however, it also puts out about 55 percent more horsepower. If you're after frightening acceleration and peak performance, then the choice is a no-brainer. Opting for the R package also means Raptor R graphics, appliques, and badging, plus it opens up other options, including the Raptor Carbon Fiber Package. The glorious wail of that supercharged V-8 is the cherry on top.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Beneath the F-150 Raptor's new hood, which now features a prominent heat extractor, is the familiar high-output version of Ford's 450-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6. It breathes through a new 3.0-inch exhaust system that reportedly enhances the truck's V-6 soundtrack. The engine still pairs with a paddle-shifted 10-speed automatic transmission that feeds all four wheels through a standard all-wheel-drive system. If that's not enough for you, just wait. The Raptor R is an even bigger predator. It uses a 700-hp version of the supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 from the Shelby GT500, but with 640 pound-feet of torque. Every Raptor rides on a sophisticated suspension that includes larger internal-bypass dampers and a five-link rear coil-spring setup. The version we tested showcased the truck's incredible traction and ride quality on even the most treacherous terrain. Along with other chassis enhancements, a selection of 17-inch rims, and a standard set of 35-inch tires, the Raptor is also available with a set of 37-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires for better approach, departure, and breakover angles as well as ground clearance that increases from 12.0 to 13.1 inches. The Raptor R comes standard with 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K02 tires.

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Towing and Payload Capacity

The F-150 Raptor can tow even more than the version it replaces. Its maximum payload and conventional tow ratings both increase by 200 pounds to 1400 and 8200 pounds, respectively.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The F-150 Raptor is rated up to 15 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway. Opting for the larger 37-inch tires can reduce those figures to 14 mpg city and 16 highway. The V-8-powered Raptor R—predictably—has the lowest estimates at 10 mpg city and 15 highway. Once we have the opportunity to test one on our 75-mph highway route, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. For more information about the F-150 Raptor's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Raptor's cabin enjoys the same design layout and passenger space as the regular F-150 SuperCrew. The high-performance version comes standard with a 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster and boasts more interior storage space as well as what Ford says are nicer materials. The new steering wheel wears a laser-etched logo and now has a race car-style orange mark at the 12 o'clock position; prominent aluminum paddle shifters still lurk behind the spokes. Along with the standard aluminum interior trim, the Raptor is available with optional carbon-fiber interior accents and more aggressively bolstered Recaro front buckets. The high-flying pickup will no longer be offered in the extended cab (a.k.a. SuperCab) body style. At least the SuperCrew crew cab version offers more back-seat space. It pairs with a 5.5-foot cargo box.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Dominating the Raptor's dashboard is a huge 12.0-inch touchscreen that supports the truck's standard Sync 4 infotainment system. Along with the ability to interact with Amazon Alexa and receive over-the-air updates, it features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We also appreciate that Ford included physical volume and tuning knobs to complement the steering-wheel controls and voice commands. Those who want to improve the audio experience can opt for the 18-speaker B&O sound system. The Raptor can also be equipped with a useful 2.0-kW mobile generator that's mounted in the cargo bed and can run power tools and other equipment.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

As with the regular F-150, the high-performance variant offers a variety of driver-assistance technology. Likewise, it'll have assists that'll make tackling the trails easier, including what Ford calls Trail Control and Trail 1-Pedal Drive. Both are standard and act as a low-speed cruise control for difficult off-road situations.

For more information about the Raptor's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features should include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

While Ford doesn't offer the complimentary maintenance that rivals from Chevy, GMC, and Toyota do, the company does provide a competitive limited and powertrain warranty.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

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