Known as the sporty, off-road-focused spin-off of the popular F-150 platform, the Ford F-150 Raptor goes bumper-to-bumper with fierce competition from the Ram Rebel. Although neither are necessarily trophy trucks, they do step up the half-ton game in their own way.
Who says you can’t have a capable truck and off-road it too?
Models
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor is a bit more than your typical trim level but not quite a separate model in itself. As such, it is best to differentiate the available features by first looking at standard features and then at the cab styles of this one-off model.
With a starting price of $52,855, the 2019 Raptor is available as either a SuperCrew or a SuperCab model. If you want extra rear cabin space, the price goes up to $55,840.
Standard features available on the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor include a reinforced frame, skid plates, 17-inch wheels with upgraded off-road rubber, leather-and-cloth seating, flared fenders, a special four-wheel-drive system, long-travel suspension, and Fox shocks. The model also features a limited-slip front differential, bead-lock capable wheels, and similar additional accessories that can also be found on the F-150 XLT and Lariat trims.
The SuperCab model comes equipped with a 26-gallon fuel tank, a Trailer Break Controller, navigation, and a KICKER Subwoofer. Plus, it has doors that swing open in opposite directions.
An extra 10 gallons of gas isn’t the only upgrade on the SuperCrew. Customers will also receive a moonroof, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, steering-wheel-mounted controls, and second-row heated seats.
Performance Specifications
The Raptor is powered by Ford’s popular 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine capable of 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic, the powerplant is capable of towing up to 13,200 pounds when properly equipped.
Fuel Efficiency
With the high-output EcoBoost motor fueling it, the 2019 F-150 Raptor won’t win any awards when it comes to fuel efficiency but it’s no worse than a sports car of similar horsepower. The Raptor comes in at 15 city and 18 highway EPA-estimated mpg.
Safety
Both the NHTSA and IIHS gave the 2019 Ford F-150 — the Raptor’s base — high marks when it comes to the overall safety of the vehicle. With a “Good” rating in all categories from the IIHS and a full five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, you can rest assured knowing the truck will protect you in the event of an accident.
How the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor Compares
Edmunds chose the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor as one of the Best Large Off-Road Trucks for 2019. The 2019 Raptor certainly excels in both circumstances, with a high towing capacity and a body built for the road — be it paved, gravel, dirt, or anything in-between.
Direct competition to the F-150 Raptor is Dodge’s Ram 1500 Rebel, a similarly-purpose-built model built on the Ram 1500 platform. Beginning at $42,095, this half-ton is two-wheel and four-wheel drive capable with Quad Cab or Crew Cab sizing. Those looking for a power upgrade over the Ford’s V6 should consider the standard equipment 5.7-liter Hemi V8 found in the 2019 Rebel.
The most important decision facing potential buyers is what do you intend to use it for. The basic Ford F-150 platform caters to most tastes, ranging from workhorse to thoroughbred, while the Raptor could be considered a feisty young colt. Any of the F-150 models will get you to work and back with varying amounts of style and comfort, without the necessity of a lift kit. But if you like your truck and want to off-road it too, the Raptor has you covered.
Pros
- Great off-road capability
- Plentiful standard and additional features
Cons
- Higher price than the competition
- Off-road upgrades may not be worth the price for some potential buyers
Autoversed
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