The Ford Raptor Returns, But Without a V8
The Ford Raptor has returned, but it’s not packing a V8 under the hood.
The all-new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew is being billed as the “toughest, smartest, most capable F-150 Raptor ever,” and is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that promises to deliver more than the 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque the current V8 has to offer. Unfortunately, the American automaker didn’t release exact specifications on the powerplant, but did say that it will be mated to a 10-speed transmission for improved efficiency. In addition, the Raptor features an all-new four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case with advanced, easy-to-use off-road driver-assist technology.
The new transfer case helps manage power distribution between the front and rear wheels, combining the best attributes of clutch-driven, on-demand all-wheel drive with durable, mechanical-locking four-wheel drive to send power to the wheels in slippery conditions.
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As expected, the new Raptor is “developed with the DNA of a Baja race truck,” and its exterior shows it. The SuperCrew model features four full-size doors and rides on a 145-inch wheelbase, making it 12 inches longer than the standard Raptor SuperCab’s 133-inch wheelbase.
Perhaps the biggest news is that the new Raptor will weigh up to 500 pounds less than the outgoing model thanks to the use of aluminum. The new pickup will also boast its first-ever dual exhaust and new 17-inch wheels paired with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires.
The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor will go on sale in the U.S. and Canada this fall.
“F-150 Raptor means superior off-road capability, from rock crawling to sand running,” said Dave Pericak, Ford Performance global director. “With the addition of SuperCrew, F-150 Raptor customers can leave the pavement behind – without sacrificing comfort and space.”
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