Ford F-150 Raptor R
2023-2024
The Raptor R takes Ford's already extreme off-road pickup and adds the nuclear option: a 700-hp supercharged V8. It's a truck that can tow your boat, dominate Baja-style terrain, and embarrass sports cars at stoplights.
Quick Take
The F-150 Raptor R is Ford's ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck, powered by the supercharged 5.2L Predator V8 from the Shelby GT500. It features advanced terrain management systems, Fox Racing Shox, and aggressive styling that emphasizes its extreme capability both on and off-road.
Best For
Key Strength
Supercharged V8 Powerhouse
Watch For
Track Day Limitations
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on the legacy of the SVT Lightning and original Raptor, the Raptor R represents Ford's commitment to high-performance trucks. It borrows the Predator V8 from Ford's most powerful Mustang, creating a spiritual successor to the desert racing trucks of the 1970s.
Design Philosophy
Maximum capability without compromise defines the Raptor R's approach. Ford engineered it to excel in every performance metric while maintaining the practical utility of a full-size pickup truck.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The supercharged Predator V8 delivers immediate, explosive power with a dramatic soundtrack. It provides effortless acceleration and abundant torque that makes the massive truck feel surprisingly nimble and responsive.
Chassis Dynamics
Advanced Fox Racing Shox with Live Valve technology and sophisticated terrain management create a truck that's equally at home jumping sand dunes or carving canyon roads. The adaptive suspension provides remarkable composure despite the truck's size and power.
Sound Signature
The supercharger whine builds to a crescendo under acceleration, backed by a thunderous V8 exhaust note that announces its presence from miles away.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The 5.2L supercharged V8 delivers 700hp and 640 lb-ft with an intoxicating whine that's pure theater. This isn't just about numbers - the power delivery is immediate and relentless, making the Raptor R genuinely fast in a straight line while providing an addictive auditory experience.
Fox Live Valve dampers, 37-inch BFGoodrich tires, and specialized desert-running suspension geometry create capability that borders on the absurd. The truck can maintain 100+ mph over rough terrain while soaking up jumps that would destroy lesser vehicles, all while remaining surprisingly composed on-road.
Honest Tradeoffs
Despite the massive power, heat management becomes problematic during extended track sessions as the supercharged engine and transmission struggle with cooling. The truck's 6,000+ pound weight also becomes apparent when trying to maintain pace through technical sections.
Beyond the six-figure purchase price, expect 10-12 mpg fuel economy and expensive maintenance intervals. Premium fuel is mandatory, and the specialized components like the Fox dampers require expert servicing that isn't cheap.
Ideal Owner
Performance truck enthusiasts who want the ultimate combination of capability, power, and utility in a single vehicle.