Truck Trend Takes the 2019 F-150 Raptor For a Spin

Perfecting Perfection

Its been a decade since Ford unleashed the F-150 Raptor.  While the OEM off-roader has received various upgrades since launch, 2019 is set to push perfection further for this four-wheeled beast.  Truck Trend got its hands on the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor for some extensive testing via Ford's Performance Raptor Assault driving school in Utah.  Click through to find out what's new for the 2019 F-150 Raptor from Truck Trend's first drive.

Photos courtesy of Truck Trend and Ford. 

Then

Originally launched for 2010, the Raptor took Ford performance to the next level.  Once reserved for high-performance street trucks, Ford's Special Vehicles Team created an off-road ready F-150 featuring Ford's venerable 5.4-liter V8 (eventually being upped to 6.2-liters), upgraded suspension from Fox Racing with 35-inch BF Goodrich tires, and a few off-road assistive electronics. 

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Now

Ford has been refining Raptor's appearance and capabilities over the course of production.  In 2017, Raptor received its first major refresh which included a swap of its aging V8 for a high-performance, second-generation 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 Ecoboost engine.  The new motor produces 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 RPM (a gain of almost 40 hp and 76 lb-ft of torque over the outgoing 6.2 V8).  The power plant remains the same for 2019.  In addition, Ford added a 10-speed automatic, its Terrain Management System, and a torque-on-demand transfer case for its second-iteration of the F-150 Raptor.  

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Live Valve Technology

The first-generation Raptor featured 11.2 inch front and 12.1 inch of rear suspension Fox internal-bypass shock absorbers with progressive-rate springs.  Upon being redesigned, Ford increased front suspension height to 13 inches, and 13.9 inches for the rear.  New for 2019 is Ford's Live Valve technology featuring Fox 3.0 internal-bypass shock absorbers with remote reservoirs; which allow the Raptor to react in real-time to changing road conditions using continuously variable compression damping.  The system works with Ford's Terrain Management System to maximize Raptor's off-road traction and stability control. 

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Trail Control

Also new for 2019 is the addition of Ford's Trail Control system introduced on the Ranger. Useful for low traction situations, the off-road cruise control system can be set to speeds up to 20 mph. The system manages throttle and brake control allowing drivers to focus on navigating changing terrain conditions. 

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Recaro Ready

Newly available for 2019 are Recaro Sport Seats with perforated blue Alcantara inserts.  While the name and style bring extra flare to the 2019 Raptor, some buyers may be more selective on which extras they'll absolutely need on their Raptor - seat style being one of them.  

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Beadlocks

Another cool option available on the 2019 Raptor are Beadlock wheels.  Beadlocks allow drivers to deflate tires to a low psi for improved traction on rugged terrain without risking the tire falling off the wheel; Beadlocks keep the tires clamped tight to the rims.

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Raptor School?

While it is not a school on how to BE a Raptor, the Ford Performance Raptor Assault driving school teaches you how to DRIVE your Raptor.  The cost of enrollment is included in the purchase price so there really isn't a good reason why someone wouldn't participate.  Instructors guide drivers through Utah's most rugged off-road trails on how to best utilize Raptor's equipment and tech. 

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Price Check

Starting out at $52,855, available options and features easily push the price tag above $70k for the 2019 Raptor.  If you need a truck that can tow 6,000 lbs, is off-road capable and looks good doing it, you may want to consider the new 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor for your garage.  

>>Join the conversation about the new Raptor and the training program right here in Ford-trucks.com.

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