Ford’s F-150 Raptor R Packs a Supercharged V8, 700 Horsepower
Ford has unveiled the 2023 F-150 Raptor R, said to be the most powerful high-performance off-road Raptor yet.
That claim all starts with the return of a V8: specifically, a 5.2-liter supercharged V8, unleashing 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. Power is channeled through a 10-speed automatic transmission, also fine-tuned for the Raptor R, and sent to the all-wheel drive system.
If that displacement sounds familiar, it’s because the same 5.2-liter was used in the latest GT500 Mustang; not a one-to-one copy, as the Raptor R’s iteration has been recalibrated and outfitted with a new pulley to better fit the truck’s purpose. That means increased torque delivery at the low-end and mid-range, optimizing power for off-road use. Ford Performance outfitted the engine with a wider air intake and conical air filter, adding up to a 66 percent increased air intake volume. And, yes, the Raptor’s active valve exhaust will make a return in Normal, Sport, Quiet and Baja mode.
Supporting this beast is an updated suspension system, similar to what we’ve seen on the V6-powered Raptor, but tuned for the weight and power of a V8. FOX Live Valve shocks use different sensors to check terrain conditions independently and adjust suspension tuning accordingly, hundreds of times a second. With the factory 37-inch tires mounted, the Raptor R will boast a 13.1-inch ground clearance.
The R’s exterior package is about what we’d expect from a Ford Raptor: the massive “FORD” name spearheading the grille and enlarged fender flares encapsulating the meaty tires. In comparison to the “regular” Raptor, the R is constructed with a larger power dome on the hood-- about an inch taller, helping to extract engine heat. Ford Performance “Code Orange” is used to add a little flair to different components, like the “R” badge on the grille, power dome and tailgate. Special graphics are also available.
The cabin is outfitted with black leather and Alcantara suede Recaro seats as standard, and carbon fiber elements are seen on the doors, media bin door and parts of the instrument panel. A 12-inch digital instrument panel is standard, as is an equally-sized infotainment screen, utilizing the latest SYNC 4 infotainment software, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other tech-goodies laced into the Raptor R’s off-road DNA include Trail Turn Assist, allowing drivers to shrink their turning radius, Ford Trail Control, letting drivers focus on steering while the R handles throttle and braking, and Trail 1-Pedal Drive, which allows for throttle and braking to be controlled via a single pedal.
Orders for the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R open today, with production slated for late 2022. Trucks will be produced at Ford’s Dearborn Truck Plant in Michigan.