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The Ford Raptor is the world's most extreme pickup - here's what it's like to drive
TransportationThe Raptor features Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also have the usual Bluetooth connectivity, with USB and AUX ports, as well as actual 110V plugs for all your charging needs.
The F-150 has a large center stack and console, and this carries over to the Raptor. To be honest, those cupholders seem sort of modest in the grand scheme of things
A lot going on with the steering wheel, in terms of controlling vehicle functions. And if you look behind the wheel there are paddle shifters! And they're — you guessed it — BIG. They actually reminded me of the paddles on a Ferrari.
The cabin is huge. You can get five adults in without too much trouble. The rear doors are "suicide" style, and the interior of our tester was covered in luxurious black leather.
Jump inside? Note the holes in the step — they prevent mud and dirt from sticking and provide some additional traction.
Also BIG shocks. The Raptor was designed for high-performance off-roading, stuff like doing 0-60 mph in a Ford-estimated 5.3 seconds — over dirt, rocks, and sand. For what it's worth, this thing tips the scales at almost three tons.
The shocks are specially designed FOX racing spec. They allow the front and rear suspensions to move up and down down more than a foot, according to Ford. That's enough to manage serious off-road punishment.
All-terrain tires and forged aluminum wheels. BIG tires and BIG wheels.
It's still a pickup, however. Plenty of room back there for mountain bikes, dirt bikes, or just a lot of dirt or a small mountain. The tailgate, by the way, is powered.
The F-150 is Ford's bestselling vehicle — and the bestselling vehicle in the US for four decades. Ford revamped it recently to make use of more lightweight aluminum. The Raptor is what happens when the F-150 goes high performance.
If you're seeking the Blue Oval, you'll find it on the tailgate.
This 2017 model had four-wheel-drive and a "Supercab." Ground clearance was impressive.
The Raptor is an amped-up-looking truck. Bold, brash, and ready to bust out. There's a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine under the hood, cranking out 450 horsepower with 510 pound-feet of torque. This pickup can tow 8,000 lbs.
The "Ingot Silver" Raptor landed at our suburban New Jersey test center on a lovely summer day.
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