In the ever-evolving realm of high-performance trucks, Ford has once again taken the lead with the release of the 2024 F-150 Raptor R. This powerhouse of a pickup has undergone a mild refresh for the new model year, but the real story lies beneath the hood, where a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 now churns out an astonishing 720 horsepower. This not only marks a 20-horsepower increase over its predecessor but also surpasses the outgoing Ram 1500 TRX by a notable 18 horsepower, firmly establishing the Raptor R as the new king of the gas-powered pickup hill.
Ford engineers have fine-tuned the Raptor R's supercharged V8 to achieve this impressive power boost. The key contributors to the increased output include a new engine calibration and strategic modifications to reduce air inlet losses. The latter involves alterations to the hood and body close-out panel, optimizing airflow to the air filter. The result is a commanding 720 horsepower and a broader torque curve.
Derived from the 5.2-liter mill found in the Mustang Shelby GT500, which boasted a remarkable 760 horsepower, the Raptor R's engine has been masterfully adapted for a truck application. When the V8-powered Raptor R first made waves in 2022 with 700 horsepower, Ford emphasized improvements in low-end power tailored for truck use, albeit at the expense of peak output. Now, it seems that Ford's engineering team has successfully struck a balance between low-end power and peak performance.
While the power upgrade steals the spotlight, the 2024 Raptor R receives a subtle facelift, featuring new headlights with daytime LEDs forming a distinctive half-square design around the outside edge. The rear end sees the introduction of the Pro Access Tailgate on select trim levels, adding a touch of functionality to the rugged aesthetics.
Inside the cabin, the Raptor R remains largely unchanged, maintaining its driver-centric design and focus on off-road capability. However, a notable addition is the optional heads-up display, making its debut in the F-150 family. This technology provides crucial information directly within the driver's line of sight, enhancing safety and convenience.
In addition to the power boost, the 2024 Raptor R features new dual-valve Fox shocks, further refining its off-road prowess. These shocks contribute to an enhanced ride and improved handling, ensuring that the Raptor R is not only a powerhouse in terms of power but also excels in tackling challenging terrains.
For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, Ford continues to offer less-expensive F-150s equipped with a standard 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, generating a respectable 325 horsepower. This ensures that the F-150 lineup caters to a diverse range of preferences and needs.
With the unveiling of the 2024 F-150 Raptor R and its staggering 720 horsepower, Ford has once again asserted its dominance in the high-performance pickup segment. Outclassing the outgoing Ram TRX in terms of power, the Raptor R combines cutting-edge technology, refined design, and off-road capabilities to create a formidable package. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R stands tall as a symbol of uncompromising power and performance in the world of gas-powered pickup trucks.
Wael is an automotive content writer specializes in creating written content for Motor 283. Producing a wide range of content, including blog posts, articles, product descriptions, reviews, and technical guides related to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other vehicles, with an unprecedented passion for cars, and motorcycles.