The Ford F-150 Raptor R, introduced in September 2023 as part of the fourteenth generation (XIV) F-150 SuperCrew facelift, represents the highest-performance iteration of Ford’s iconic pickup truck. Positioned as the ultimate factory-built off-road performance machine, the Raptor R distinguishes itself with a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 720 horsepower. It builds upon the already capable standard Raptor, targeting enthusiasts seeking uncompromising power and capability both on and off-road. The Raptor R is a distinctly American performance vehicle, designed to dominate both desert racing and everyday driving.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCrew (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | Raptor R 5.2 V8 (720 Hp) 4×4 SelectShift |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 23.5 l/100 km (10 US mpg, 12 UK mpg, 4.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 19.6 l/100 km (12 US mpg, 14.4 UK mpg, 5.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 266.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 321.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 720 Hp @ 6650 rpm |
| Power per litre | 139.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 868 Nm @ 4300 rpm (640.2 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Carnivore |
| Engine displacement | 5163 cm3 (315.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2699 kg (5950.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3334 kg (7350.21 lbs.) |
| Max load | 635 kg (1399.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1495 l (52.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3946 kg (8699.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5908 mm (232.6 in.) |
| Width | 2210 mm (87.01 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2438 mm (95.98 in.) |
| Height | 2047 mm (80.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3693 mm (145.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1887 mm (74.29 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Front overhang | 940 mm (37.01 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1275 mm (50.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 332 mm (13.07 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 15.2 m (49.87 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 33.1° |
| Departure angle | 24.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 24.4° |
| Wading depth | 810 mm (31.89 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 336×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Raptor R is the “Carnivore” 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine. This engine, derived from the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, has been specifically tuned for the demands of off-road performance and heavy-duty truck applications. It utilizes a roots-type supercharger, delivering instant and substantial boost across the rev range. The engine employs both direct injection and multi-port fuel injection, optimizing combustion efficiency and power output. The valvetrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), allowing for precise control of valve timing and lift. The engine is paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, calibrated to handle the engine’s immense torque and provide smooth, responsive shifting. This transmission features selectable drive modes tailored for various terrains and driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The Raptor R delivers a dramatically different driving experience compared to the standard F-150 or even the standard Raptor. The supercharged V8 provides immediate and forceful acceleration, making it feel significantly faster than its naturally aspirated counterparts. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, even during challenging off-road climbs. While the increased power doesn’t necessarily translate to improved fuel economy (EPA estimates are 12 mpg combined), it provides a level of performance unmatched in the full-size pickup segment. The Raptor R’s substantial weight and off-road focused suspension mean it isn’t as nimble as a sports car, but its capability and confidence-inspiring power delivery make it a thrilling vehicle to drive in a variety of conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Raptor R comes standard with a comprehensive suite of off-road focused equipment. This includes upgraded Fox Live Valve shocks, providing adaptive damping for optimal ride quality and control. Interior features include unique Recaro seats with distinctive blue accents, a carbon fiber interior trim, and a premium sound system. Standard technology includes a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4 software, as well as a suite of driver-assistance features. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, and various exterior styling packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Raptor R’s chassis is heavily reinforced to withstand the stresses of high-speed off-road driving. It features a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel. The suspension utilizes a long-travel independent front suspension and a solid rear axle with coil springs. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, with larger rotors and more robust calipers compared to the standard F-150. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is tuned to work effectively on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Raptor R has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its exceptional performance and off-road capability. However, its high price point and relatively poor fuel economy have been noted as drawbacks. Compared to the standard Raptor, the R offers a significant increase in power and a more luxurious interior. Compared to other high-performance trucks, such as the Ram TRX, the Raptor R offers a different driving experience, prioritizing raw power and off-road prowess over outright comfort.
Legacy
The Ford F-150 Raptor R represents a bold statement in the world of performance trucks. While its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, the proven durability of the underlying F-150 platform and the robust components used in the Raptor R suggest it will be a capable and dependable vehicle for years to come. On the used car market, the Raptor R is expected to hold its value well, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a unique and high-performance pickup truck.
