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Thanks: Global Motorsports Website: 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor Starting at $ Highs Gnarly performance, unbeatable off-road capability, why can't every pickup ride this smoothly? Lows Lousy V-6 exhaust note, expensive gas bill, there's a limit to how big a truck can be—and this is it. Verdict The F-150 Raptor is one seriously intense truck, but it's surprisingly amenable to everyday use as long as you don't expect it to fit into normal-size parking spots. 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 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. What's New for 2023? Ford adds the mega-horsepower F-150 Raptor R for 2023. The Raptor R uses a 700-hp supercharged V-8 Predator engine from the Mustang GT500. Underneath, a 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 F-150 Raptor: $78,480 F-150 Raptor R: $109,145 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 EcoBoost V-6. It breathes through a new 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 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. Read More 📌 Instagram ▶ 📌 Tiktok ▶ @cartvpress
