The Ford F-150 Raptor exists as an off-road trophy truck designed for SCORE competitions, inhabiting a realm dominated by asphalt landscapes. This remarkable truck features notably broad fenders, extended suspension travel, substantial tires, and embodies the high-performance spirit reminiscent of Baja racing trucks. A majority of Raptors derive their power from a twin-turbocharged V-6 engine generating 450 horsepower, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain configuration will persist unchanged for the 2023 model year.
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 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.
