The second generation of Ford’s tough, off-road-ready pickup is set to hit the market in 2017. Recently spotted gallivanting around in the sand on the dunes of Lake Michigan, the recently-announced Raptor looks to be the highest-performance F150 the Ford Company has yet to release. From the Utah backcountry to the cattle ranches of the hill country, the new Raptor is dressed to impress.
Serious Off-Road Capability
The Ford Raptor’s sand dune excursions weren’t just for show. The off-road-specific pickup boasts a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, which means more than 411 horsepower and over 434 pound-feet of torque. Addressing concerns that the carmaker’s previous installment of the Raptor was lacking in power, the 2017 version will feature a full 10-speed automatic transmission for tackling all kinds of different landscapes.
Increased Stability
In addition to Ford’s new aluminum body, which will cut the F150 Raptor’s weight by over 500 pounds compared to the 2014 model, a new driver-adjustable terrain management system will offer six different modes—such as Rock Crawling, Sand and Weather—that will alter the vehicle’s engine, transmission, brake systems and traction control. Ensuring the truck handles securely whether it’s riding on concrete or the rocky slabs of Moab, Utah.
Suspension and Safety
The Raptor’s power boost is coupled with overhauled suspension travel; the 2017 model will feature wider and more durable components, from larger 30-inch FOX Racing Shox and specially tuned springs to new aluminum control arms at the head. The improved suspension will make for a smoother, more reliable ride regardless of circumstance.
Further details on the 2017 Ford F150 Raptor are still forthcoming (including the official name) and will likely be released at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. However, the vehicle stands to feature all of the modern F150’s truck options and safety features. Until January, Ford enthusiasts from Utah to the Midwest will just have to satiate their hunger by watching that mesmerizing sand dune video over and over again.
Natalie Benoy is a automative writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Henry Day Ford. Follow on Twitter
Serious Off-Road Capability
The Ford Raptor’s sand dune excursions weren’t just for show. The off-road-specific pickup boasts a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, which means more than 411 horsepower and over 434 pound-feet of torque. Addressing concerns that the carmaker’s previous installment of the Raptor was lacking in power, the 2017 version will feature a full 10-speed automatic transmission for tackling all kinds of different landscapes.
Increased Stability
In addition to Ford’s new aluminum body, which will cut the F150 Raptor’s weight by over 500 pounds compared to the 2014 model, a new driver-adjustable terrain management system will offer six different modes—such as Rock Crawling, Sand and Weather—that will alter the vehicle’s engine, transmission, brake systems and traction control. Ensuring the truck handles securely whether it’s riding on concrete or the rocky slabs of Moab, Utah.
Suspension and Safety
The Raptor’s power boost is coupled with overhauled suspension travel; the 2017 model will feature wider and more durable components, from larger 30-inch FOX Racing Shox and specially tuned springs to new aluminum control arms at the head. The improved suspension will make for a smoother, more reliable ride regardless of circumstance.
Further details on the 2017 Ford F150 Raptor are still forthcoming (including the official name) and will likely be released at the 2016 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. However, the vehicle stands to feature all of the modern F150’s truck options and safety features. Until January, Ford enthusiasts from Utah to the Midwest will just have to satiate their hunger by watching that mesmerizing sand dune video over and over again.
Natalie Benoy is a automative writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Henry Day Ford. Follow on Twitter