2023 Ford Raptor and Raptor R Review

The Ford Raptor has always been the final boss of the full-sized pickup category, and there’s no doubt why. The Raptor has a reputation for being one of the most powerful pickups, finetuned for tearing up the trail. The 2023 Raptor (and the all-new 2023 Ford Raptor R) are now available for sale. The following is a review of both of them:

Features

The 2023 Raptor and Raptor R are a part of the 14th generation of the F150 nameplate. They both offer different engines and are built for off-roading. The 2023 Raptor R is a new model and it has been designed to endure even tougher conditions, and it also offers unique accents.

Engine and Numbers

First, let’s take a look at the power plants responsible for propelling these two monsters. The 2023 Raptor offers the 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 found on the regular F150 lineup, but it has been tuned to deliver a higher power output of 450 hp and 510 lb.-ft.

Then there’s the new Raptor R, or as some might call it – the 2023 Ford Raptor V8. This is powered by a 5.2-liter V8 engine, straight from the Shelby GT500. As expected, this truck produces 700 hp and 640 lb.-ft. Both of these trucks have a 10-speed automatic transmission.

This sends power to a rear- or four-wheel drive system. The result is that the Raptor 2023 is able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just around 5 seconds. Meanwhile, the Raptor R should do the same at around 3.8 seconds, putting some of the most iconic supercars in history to shame.

These two sports trucks should be great haulers as well. The maximum towing capacity for the standard truck is 8200 lbs. and it is 8700 lbs. for the Raptor R, while the max payload for both goes up to 1400 lbs.

While the fuel economy is usually not a concern for Raptor buyers, these two trucks give out respectable figures. The Raptor is good for 15 mpg in the city and 18 mpg highway. On the other hand, the more powerful Raptor R will do 10 mpg city and 15 mpg on the highway.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the current F150 has received high acclaim for its looks and functionality. The 2023 Raptor comes with the Super Crew cabin configuration so it can seat up to six occupants. High-quality materials are used throughout the truck and if you get the 2023 Raptor R, they’ll get even more upscale.
The interior storage for these trucks is also top-class for the category. The pockets and the cubbies in the cabin are quite the bonus on top of the large truck beds. While the Raptor is superb in this area, the Raptor R is even better.

The following gives you a gist of all the standard amenities for these trucks:

2023 Raptor

The 2023 Ford Raptor is loaded with all the latest technology as standard. You get dual-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-adjustable pedals with a memory function, and more.

The bucket seats in the front are high-tech, as they are heated and ventilated. There’s 10-way power adjustability for the driver (plus a memory function) and multi-way adjustability for the front passenger.

The infotainment system is a 12-inch touchscreen with Android and Apple connectivity. The sound is transmitted through a premium Bangs & Olufsen 18-speaker sound system. You also get WIFI hotspot capabilities.

The safety department offers a long list of features. You get forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and parking sensors for the rear. Trailering is made easier via the hitch assist, backup assist, and reverse guidance systems.

2023 Raptor R

You can expect even more luxury from the monstrous 2023 Ford Raptor R, despite its performance being the major upgrade. You get add-ons such as Recaro bucket seats upfront (with heating and massaging available). The upholstery is unique and as expected, you also get specialized accents for the Raptor R.

Exterior and Driving

While the 2023 Ford F150 is certainly a looker, the Raptor’s iconic front grille gives it a more menacing look, with an improved performance. The tires are thicker, the chassis is modified for off-roading, and you receive flared fenders, a 5-link rear suspension, and skid plates.

The Raptor R on the other hand takes everything to a whole new level. It gets even larger tires, an improved electronic diff, better dampers, and is wider for more stability. Combine these aspects with a tremendous power output, and you’ve got the best offroad pickup ever.
The following are the exterior colors offered on the 2023 F150 Tremor:

Both of these trucks are unstoppable on the trail but they’re not just rugged bruisers for off-roading. They’re also very refined and comfortable on the inside, particularly due to the long-travel suspension system. Also, the new exhaust note will be quite symphonious for petrol heads.

Reliability and Warranty

The 2023 Raptor should also do well in terms of reliability as JD Power has given the 2023 F150 range a Great score. We can hence expect the 2023 Raptor R to also do well here. There are two warranties – a limited one covering 3 years/36k miles, and a powertrain one that will be good for 5 years/60k miles.

Verdict

As expected, the 2023 Raptor and the 2023 Raptor R are just mindbogglingly amazing trucks on every level. They do justice to the iconic Raptor nameplate with their ultra-high-performance characteristics.

Also, you can use these trucks to conquer the great outdoors while having a relaxing driving experience in the cozy cabin, full of luxurious amenities. You also get a lot of safety features and helpful systems to make trailering safer and easier.

To get the 2023 Ford Raptor and the 2023 Ford Raptor R in Woods Cross Utah, check out Performance Ford Truck Country here.