Ford Unveils New F-150 Raptor R

Ford introduced the new F-150 Raptor R, which is the fastest, most powerful, most extreme high-performance off-road desert Raptor yet, according to the company's news release.

All three generations of F-150 Raptor have been inspired by the desert-racing trophy trucks that compete in the Baja 1000. Designed and engineered by Ford Performance, the 2023 F-150 Raptor R is the closest yet to delivering this type of performance, according to Ford.

“Raptor R is our ultimate Raptor,” said Carl Widmann, Ford Performance chief engineer. “When customers experience Raptor R in the desert and beyond, it will make the hairs on the back of their necks stand up – and they’ll love every second of it.”

The Raptor R features a new 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine that delivers 700 horsepower and 640 lb.-ft. of torque. Ford Performance recalibrated the V8 engine’s supercharger and installed a new pulley to optimize its power for off-road use, increasing torque delivery at the low-end and mid-range.

Ford Performance upgraded the original engine’s exhaust manifolds to a cast stainless steel design, including a unique oil cooler and filter, plus a deeper oil pan enabling it to tackle aggressive grades while keeping the engine oil cool. To help the engine breathe better, air intake volume is increased 66% via a wider air intake inlet and a higher-flow, higher-efficiency conical air filter.

Raptor R delivers a 10-speed SelectShift transmission with improved calibration. The truck features a new front axle with a higher-strength carrier casting and an aluminum-ribbed structural cover to manage the powertrain’s added torque.

“We’ve heard our customers demanding the sound and power of a V8 back in Raptor,” said Widmann. “That’s not something we were going to rush. This supercharged 5.2-liter V8 is the ideal fusion of high-density power paired with the third generation Raptor’s all-new rear suspension and shocks to deliver a one-two punch that goes far beyond the sum of its parts.”

The Raptor R comes standard with a suite of smart technology. The vehicle features a standard 12-inch touch screen with SYNC 4 technology, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Raptor R also benefits from Ford Power-Up over-the-air software update capability.

The F-150 Raptor R will be available in eight color options. Ordering for F-150 Raptor R is open now and production starts late 2022 at Dearborn Truck Plant.