The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is probably the most potent Raptor ever, fulfilling a promise made when the third-gen Raptor was launched in February 2021. True, the brand new EcoBoost V6 Raptor is not any slowpoke with 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque, however the monster truck panorama is dwelling to a brand new breed of animal, the Ram 1500 TRX.
We’re first to confess that the TRX has overshadowed the still-capable V6-powered second and third-gen Ford F-150 Raptor, however all of that’s about to alter with the Raptor R.
“Raptor R is our ultimate Raptor,” stated Carl Widmann, Chief Engineer of Ford Performance. “When customers experience Raptor R in the desert and beyond, it will make the hairs on the back of their necks stand up – and they’ll love every second of it.”
Predator V8 Reporting For Duty
We by no means severely thought Ford would let the Ram TRX run circles across the Raptor. You see, the R badge has a lineage within the Raptor DNA. The first Raptor to put on the R badge was the first-gen F-150 SVT R, the race-ready model of a normal Raptor constructed solely for the Baja 1000, so you’ll be able to guess the home Ford goes all out with the all-new Raptor R.
Under the hood is identical 5.2-liter supercharged V8 from the Mustang Shelby GT500, the large daddy of blue oval muscle automobiles. Affectionately known as “Predator” by Ford, it’s probably the most highly effective engine within the automaker’s lengthy and illustrious historical past, pumping out 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft. of torque within the Shelby GT500.
With the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R, you may have 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft. of torque at your disposal. The blown engine churns out most twist at low to mid revs to ship heart-pounding acceleration, channeling all that grunt to all 4 wheels utilizing a 10-speed SelectShift computerized gearbox.
Ford up to date the mill with a recalibrated supercharger and a smaller diameter pulley to favor extra torque over peak energy output. Custom chrome steel exhaust manifolds, an up to date oil cooler, and a deeper oil pan have been additionally added. On the consumption aspect, the V8 now has a extra complete air consumption and a non-restrictive air filter that inhales 66 % extra air when in comparison with the EcoBoost V6 Raptor.
Ford F-150 Raptor R vs. Ram 1500 TRX
We knew this query would come eventually, and it’s crucial to present a straight reply. Which one is the largest and baddest? The Ford F-150 Raptor R or the Ram 1500 TRX?
The Ram TRX has moved the goalpost additional with its supercharged 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 churning out 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft. of torque. The TRX has extra energy, however the Hellcat has a heftier forged iron block. On the opposite hand, Raptor R’s Predator has a lighter aluminum block, leading to a curb weight of 5,950 lbs.
Meanwhile, the Ram TRX ideas the scales at about 6,350 lbs. If you do the mathematics, the Raptor R has a barely higher power-to-weight ratio (8.5 lbs/hp) than the TRX (9 lbs/hp), which additionally means the previous may upset the latter in a drag race – not that these vans are about drag racing per se, however you get the purpose.
We’re nonetheless ready for the Raptor R’s official zero to 60 and quarter-mile numbers, however we’re positive it’ll be shut. For reference, the RAM TRX rushes from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and blitzes the quarter-mile in about 12.9 seconds at 108 mph.
Race-Proven Underpinnings
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R has an up to date entrance axle with the next energy service casing and an aluminum-ribbed cowl to deal with the added torque. Also normal is a larger-diameter aluminum driveshaft and a bespoke torque converter with a sturdy turbine damper and a four-pinion rear output to ship relentless grunt whether or not on or off-road.
The Raptor R additionally depends on a five-link rear suspension (with extra-long trailing arms), 24-inch coil springs, and a Panhard rod to enhance stability. The normal dampers are customized FOX Live Valve shock absorbers with top and terrain sensors that monitor the bottom and modify the damping forces as much as 100 instances a second.
In addition, Raptor R has distinctive 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires for as much as 13 inches of entrance wheel journey and 14.1 inches within the rear (to go over rocks and dunes like they weren’t there).
![2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R.](https://i0.wp.com/www.automoblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2023-Ford-F-150-Raptor-R-4.jpg?resize=788%2C348&ssl=1)
Rugged Styling
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R appears to be like just like an peculiar Raptor (in case you can name a Raptor peculiar), however the former has bespoke exterior and inside trim to set it aside. It has a extra important energy dome on the hood, bulkier fenders, and Code Orange R badging on the physique graphics.
Opening the doorways reveals real carbon-fiber accents, Recaro entrance seats wrapped in black leather-based, and an R button on the steering wheel. Standard comfort options embody a 12-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and over-the-air (OTA) software program updates.
![2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R interior layout.](https://i0.wp.com/www.automoblog.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/2023-Ford-F-150-Raptor-R-17-1024x667.jpg?resize=770%2C501&ssl=1)
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R: Pricing & Availability
The F-150 Raptor R begins at $109,145, about $37,000 greater than a Raptor V6 and $32,000 dearer than a Ram 1500 TRX. The order books are open, and manufacturing ought to begin in late 2022 on the Ford Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan.
Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog function columnist and an skilled in sports activities and efficiency automobiles. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his youthful years and continues to be very a lot smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He additionally likes fried hen, music, and natural medication.
Photos & Source: Ford Motor Company.
Source: www.automoblog.web