The rough and tough reputation of Texas is very apparent when you take a ride in the all-new 2017 Ford Raptor. This truck has an impressive performance history that puts it at the top of the food chain for quarter-ton trucks. This year’s work horse continues to turn heads with its good looks and could be one of the most capable Raptors Ford has produced so far.
Let’s look at the guts of this fierce all-wheel-drive ride. Ford has made sure this Raptor is more powerful than previous years. The all-new second generation 3.5 liter high-output Ecoboost V6 provides 450 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds-of-torque. Engineers wanted a stronger Raptor but also a more fuel-efficient machine. Ford boasts a 23 percent improvement in EPA combined fuel economy for the 2017 Raptor.
Getting all this power to the ground is no easy task. Ford stepped up to the plate and included a new smooth 10-speed transmission that manages the gearing to provide maximum performance when and where you want it. Driving this tough truck is a breeze on and off the road thanks to a unique shock system that helps keep the Raptor civil under normal driving conditions.
The Raptor’s broad military-grade aluminum alloy body is 500 pounds lighter this year and is offered in both Super-cab and Super-crew. You will never go unnoticed with signature LED grille lights and blacked out headlamps. And inside both driver and passengers are spoiled with great ergonomics and comfy seating. There are plenty of upgrades for the tech-savvy enthusiast who likes lots of gadgetry.
If you are looking for a truck that plays nice but has the potential to have an attitude then the 2017 Ford Raptor needs to be on your test drive list. This is a lot of truck with lots of capabilities for a MRSP starting in the sub $50,000 range.
By DriverSide Vehicle Reviews