Ford’s truck designed for off-road competition, the Raptor, will celebrate 2016 with an all-around updated version. Thanks to new improvements to the 2015 F-150, Ford is now calling Raptor the toughest, smartest, most capable truck. Let’s see what the new off-road beast has to offer.
It all starts with the new frame, which features more high-strength steel than its F-150 siblings. Thanks to the new aluminum alloy, not only is the new Raptor stronger, but is also 500 pounds lighter. In today’s off-road competitions, any weight reduction translates into more speed, power, and fuel efficiency. For improved stability, the 2016 Ford Raptor is 6 inches wider than F-150 and features 17-in all-terrain next-generation wheels and tires.
The current Raptor is powered by a 6.2-liter V8, which produces 411 horsepower and 434 lb. of torque. The new-generation Raptor will use a high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost –an efficient V6 engine paired to a 10-speed transmission.
The 2015 Raptor offers a new technology called Terrain Management system, which allows drivers to optimize driving dynamics. The system controls powertrain, driveline, ABS and stability control and comes with six different presets for different driving conditions:
- Normal mode for casual, everyday driving
- Weather mode for snow, rice, rain and low traction conditions
- Street mode for high-performance, on-road driving
- Mud and sand mode for off-road sandy hills and loose terrain
- Baja mode for high-speed off-road racing
- Rock mode for rock crawling
The new Raptor is also bringing improvements to stability and suspension. An available Torsen front differential allows the Raptor to pull itself over big obstacles by increasing the grip of the front tires. Also, the new truck comes standard with FOX Racing Shox, which work to stiffen and damp the suspension over off-road terrain. Shock canisters are now half an inch bigger and feature more suspension travel.
The 2016 Raptor is not only more powerful and capable, is also more comfortable. The interior gets some upgrades, like new auxiliary switches and paddle shifters to control the 10-speed transmission.
What do you think about Ford’s latest performance truck? Is it Baja 1000 material? We think it is. Check out our current inventory here or stop by the dealership today.
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Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.