When the Ford Motor Company released the first pictures and videos of the fourteenth-generation Ford F-150 in 2020, it was clear Ford decided to embrace an evolutionary design and added plenty of well-conceived features.
While Ford took time to focus on what matters, creating a high-performance driving experience, the new 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor 4WD Supercrew costs $112,970.00 before tax.
The evolutionary design takes the same layout from the previous vehicle and transfers it to the new one with a progressive update which, in this case, is reflected on the exterior and interior of the Raptor.
Externally, the F-150 Raptor kept the same square format with the same aggressive and imposing presence as the second-generation 2017 Raptor.
Thanks to the wide body, which increased by 8 mm in width compared to the standard SuperCrew variant, the front and rear FOX Racing Shox M suspension could be accommodated.
The more noticeable upgrades came with the headlights and taillights. The lights are the same rectangle shape but received a different LED lighting position.
Inside, as well as in the previous Ford Raptor, the Blue Oval showed dedication to interior quality. As an option, at a cost of $1,250.00, a Raptor Carbon Fibre Package is added to the glovebox door and the front and rear door panels, presenting top-notch material.
Not only does the V6 emit an incredible sound from the exhaust but also – as standard – the premium sound system made by Bang & Olufsen has impressive quality sound. It is easy to set up and enjoy your favourite playlist through the 12-inch display.
Another standard feature is the ‘Interior Work Surface.’ By pressing the first left button, located on the centre console, the gear stick retracts automatically, and you have to flip the armrest to turn it on a small table, practicality in its best form.
The V6 EcoBoost is a respectable engine and does not work alone. The engine comes with a pair of turbochargers that spool up quickly and only have slight turbo lag.
Ford calls this V6 version “High-Output” to justify the 450 horsepower and marries it with the 10-speed automatic gearbox, making a near-flawless powertrain.
How does it translate throughout the experience?
The V6-power weapon lives to be accelerated – the limiter does not interfere with the action until 5,850 rpm – and the paddle shifters are attached to the back of the steering wheel, creating more interaction with the Raptor.
In sport mode, the steering wheel set-up has dynamic feedback, which keeps the Raptor under control, even during the wintertime.
Another element that puts a smile on your face is related to the chassis; there is a small amount of body roll for such a tall creature, and the reasons for that are the tires which generate so much grip.
The Raptor’s driver feels confident to open it up. It is even possible to forget that the Raptor is still a pickup truck equipped with features to stand out, such as a 4.10 electronic-locking axle, the power tailgate, and an optional tailgate step, capable of towing 8,200 lbs.
Everything comes down to whether the 2023 Raptor is worth purchasing.
There are two ways to think about it.
Remember, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is $112,970.00 before tax. Yet, looking at the main rival and base model, the 2023 RAM 1500 TRX, starts from $109,790 plus tax.
Even though the Raptor came fully equipped as tested, it might struggle to make much sense financially once one considers that the TRX – with a supercharged 6.2L V8-HEMI generating 702 hp – does 0-100 km/h, claimed by RAM, in 4.5 seconds while the Raptor V6 does 5.2 seconds.
The second option is based on the high-performance driving experience that the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor 4WD Supercrew provides.
You should consider taking the Raptor home because it is a compliment to the driver’s soul. The V6 engine produces a monumental 510 lb.-ft of torque, and 450 hp, which is more than enough to drive in the city and highways; it has a stunning and evolutionary design; it is capable of towing a small country and is reliable and practical.