The R badge remains hidden, but all the rest of the badges are revealed.
New spy photos show the Ford F-150 Raptor R, which has been completely revealed in public. This orange truck appears to be a regular Raptor at first glance. As is often the case with Raptors, the devil is always in the details. A closer look reveals some clues that this is the V8 model V8 enthusiasts have been longing for.
The obvious problem will be the first. The windshield sticker is marked new version. However, this could be the standard 2023 F150 Raptor. This is unlikely, unless Ford makes some minor changes to the vehicle. But, you didn’t click this article because it was about a generic green sticker. The R badge hidden on the grille is what you are more interested in.
It is covered in black tape. We might find out later that there are more updates to the Raptor R’s grille. A small square is hidden underneath the D on the driver’s right side. It’s not on the EcoBoost Raptor. This suggests Ford is adopting a subtler approach to Raptor R’s exterior. If you look lower, you will see black where the skid plates connect. A graphics package with Raptor R stickers at the quarter panels at back might be an option for those who want a little more visual punch.
The trailing arms beneath the Raptor’s back are not the same as what you see on the standard Raptor. You’ll also see familiar dark tips, but the piping behind them are larger if you look closely. This is crucial because it connects directly to the Shelby GT500’s supercharged, 5.2-liter V8 engine. We know there is a V8 in the car. Ford executives confirmed this in 2021. The Ram TRX requires a substantial power boost from the twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 450 horsepower (336 kW), and the Shelby’s 760 horsepower (567 kW) motor.
It remains to be determined if the Raptor R will retain all 760 ponies, but it seems likely that something in the 700-hp area is possible. We just have to wait. Ford has already driven test models down the streets, so an official announcement could come in a few weeks.