The Raptor is a V6-only truck for the moment.
UPDATE: Ford confirmed that the Raptor R will be equipped with a V8. Read all about it here. This story has been edited for clarity.
The 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor looks very similar to the standard F-150. It doesn’t look any different from the F-150 Raptor, for better or worse. The third-generation Raptor is more innovative than the Ford-based truck.
Although the Blue Oval doesn’t share power yet, the Raptor’s last year’s numbers – 450 horsepower and 510 pound feet – may feel a little weaker if they do return for the 2021 model-year. The Raptor R will be the next generation of high-performance trucks, Ford claiming that it will feature V8 power. The V8 of the GT500’s supercharged, 5.2-liter V8 is still a mystery. However, it seems to be a great match for the Hellcat powered Ram.
The new V6 Raptor will sound stronger due to an equal-length exhaust system. The “trombone loop”, which pairs with active valves allows the three-inch pipe produce more or less sound depending on its needs. The four exhaust modes, Quiet, Normal and Sport, should all work in the same way as the normal.
Mustang The drive mode selected by the driver or the driver can be changed. Ford’s samples suggest that this EcoBoost V6 might be the best 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6.
Speaking of those drive modes, there are seven, doing all the usual things (adjusting transmission/throttle behavior, damper firmness, etc.). These drive modes are a great way to take advantage of the Raptor’s completely revised suspension. The third-generation Raptor is a high-performance truck that never slowed down.
Ford has completely overhauled the rear suspension. It now uses a five-link rear suspension with long trailing arms, and a Panhard rod. This pair should provide some amazing articulation. New Fox shocks are available in 3.1-inch body sizes and huge 24-inch coil springs at each corner. This gives the Raptor a lot of wheel travel (14.0 in front, 15.0 back).
These impressive stats are only possible with standard 35-inch tires. But, let’s face it, we all want the unattractive 37-inch optional tires. Even though suspension travel is just 13.0 in front and 14.1 back, the tires offer more comfort. Regardless of the size, the rubber is the BFGoodrich KO2 which comes with three options of wheels (including two beadlockable options).
The Raptor’s evolution to, well…a lot of stuff is what will reach consumers despite these changes. This exterior design is very similar to the last year’s truck ( according to our prediction ). The hood and power dome are great additions. We also like the side grilles. We’re also okay with the SuperCrew as the only body style so far.
The Raptor isn’t revolutionizing the market. The interior is no different. It has subtle aesthetic changes that blend with the F-150’s standard design. There will be some orange accents, some carbon-fiber trim and Shelby GT500-sourced paddleshifters, but that’s it for the cabin.
Ford has yet to release horsepower and torque figures, so it’s not surprising that the Blue Oval won’t tell us how much the new Raptor costs when it goes on the market this summer. The 2020 Raptor SuperCrew was $56,440, not including $1,695 delivery charge. So if the modest price increases of the F-150 are any indications, the 2021 Raptor will still be a bargain at less than $60,000 to begin. In the coming weeks, expect to see more information about the Ford F-150 Raptor.