2019 Ford Raptor: Making the Best Even Better

Refreshed 2019 Ford Raptor is now specifically designed to fly, thanks to innovative new shock technology.

It seems like only yesterday that Ford unleashed the all-new Raptor upon the world. And yet, it’s actually been two years – a veritable lifetime in the world of truck design. So everybody’s favorite off-roader is getting some fresh kit for the 2019 model year. All of which promises to make the 2019 Ford Raptor even more capable than its predecessor, wWhich is saying a lot, obviously.

Built to Fly

The biggest, and most exciting change lies in the suspension. Ford Performance worked directly with FOX, makers of the previous gen’s shocks, to develop something totally new. And what they came up with is supremely trick – electronically controlled Live Valve technology that constantly adjusts damping in real time. The setup uses sensors in both the suspension and body to not only optimize handling and bottom-out resistance, but on-road comfort as well.

“By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel of 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear,”said Hermann Salenbauch, global director, Ford Performance vehicle programs. “By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel of 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear.”

Working in tandem with a tweaked Terrain Management System, Live Valve suspension technology greatly enhances high-speed off-road capability while also maintaining smooth on-road comfort. But that isn’t even the coolest thing about this new technology. In fact, it’s tuned specifically for jumping the truck. Yes, you read that correctly.

“Not many trucks need sensors to detect when you are midair,” added Salenbauch. “Raptor sets the dampers to full stiffness to help smooth shock performance as the truck lands.”

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.