Ford’s most powerful truck ever and more autos stories

The 2023 Raptor R, an updated iteration of the Ford F-150, has now entered the realm of Jurassic World with its latest modifications. Similar to the manner in which park visitors became disenchanted with authentic dinosaurs, compelling scientists to fabricate new hybrid creatures, Ford has fashioned its own rendition of the Indominus Rex with the Raptor R. Although the Raptor R retains much of the standard Raptor’s equipment, its most significant transformation occurs under the hood.

The previous turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 generating 450 horsepower has been ousted in favor of a more robust engine, a truck-adapted version of the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 that debuted in the recent Mustang Shelby GT500, with a 700 horsepower rating. This alteration renders the Raptor R the most powerful pickup ever sold by Ford, although not the most potent gasoline-powered pickup available.

Ford Performance chief engineer Carl Widmann explained that some modifications to the Mustang’s engine were necessary to adapt it to the Raptor R’s hot-weather, high-velocity driving conditions. These modifications include a high-flow air intake and exhaust, in addition to a more resilient oil cooling system. The truck’s signature black power dome, protruding from the hood, serves to improve heat dissipation and augment its already menacing appearance.

The Raptor R’s front axle and aluminum driveshaft is more robust than those of the standard Raptor and can better withstand the V8’s 640 lb-ft of torque. The truck’s suspension has been slightly altered to account for the additional weight added by the engine, but is otherwise unchanged, incorporating computer-controlled Fox Live Valve shock absorbers that offer position-dependent damping to keep the truck stable over high-frequency bumps and prevent bottoming out during landing. The Raptor R comes standard with the Raptor’s optional 37-inch all-terrain tires, contributing to its 13.1 inches of ground clearance.

Despite its modifications, the Raptor R drives similarly to the V6-powered Raptor under normal circumstances. The exhaust is more boisterous but adjustable, so one can reduce the volume to avoid disturbing neighbors. When the throttle is floored, however, the beast is unleashed, and the transmission downshifts with a bang, propelling the truck forward with the ferocity of a predator pouncing on its prey, making the presence of the additional power known in a significant manner.