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Ford has released its new 2023 F-150 Raptor R, the most powerful version of its high-performance off-roader. The new truck uses a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 last seen in the Mustang Shelby GT500 that produces 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. If you want that extra power, the Raptor R is now open for order, although pricing has yet to be announced.
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Ford Unveils 2023 F-150 Raptor R With 700 Horsepower Back to Video
This engine is quite a bit better than the regular Raptor, which uses a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 that makes 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. According to Carl Widman, chief engineer for Ford Performance, “We heard that our customers were demanding the sound and power of the V8 back in the Raptor.”
Engine changes for the Raptor R include a deeper oil sump, stainless steel exhaust manifolds, a wider air intake and a higher-flow air filter. The ten-speed automatic transmission has a custom-tuned torque converter and four-pinion rear output assembly.
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The dual exhaust features an active valvetrain and pass-through exhaust system, with modes that go from Quiet – so you don’t wake the neighbors with your morning coffee – to Baja. The exhaust can be turned on as part of a custom setup, along with steering, suspension mode and more activated with the ‘R’ button on the steering wheel.
Fat bits include electronically controlled Fox Live Valve shocks, extra-long trailing arms, 24-inch coil springs, and 13 inches of front and 14.1 inches of rear wheel travel. Standard tires are 37 inches and ground clearance is 13.1 inches.
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Visual cues that this isn’t your average Raptor include a larger hood scoop, “Code Orange” exterior accents including an “R” badge, and a rear graphics package. The black interior features Recaro seats and real carbon fiber trim in triaxial fabric. As with the regular Raptor, the Raptor R includes off-road features such as Trail Turn Assist for sharper cornering; and single-pedal driving without the need to use brakes when slowing down or stopping on trails.
It all sounds great and we can’t wait to drive it, but we’re also a little puzzled. Its closest rival is Ram’s TRX, which packs a supercharged 6.2L V8 that produces 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. We’ve seen Ram and Ford fool around with the torque numbers on their heavy-duty diesel trucks, where one would announce a small increase and the other would increase it by a few more pound-feet. So we’re very surprised that the Raptor R didn’t just rip out three more horses and top the TRX with 703.
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