In the world of high-performance pickup trucks, few names command as much respect and admiration as the Ford F-150 Raptor. Since it first went into production in 2009, the Ford Raptor has redefined what it means to combine rugged off-road capability with the power and performance of a sports car.
In this edition of the DubiCars Car Spotlight, we take a look at the history, generations, and models of the Ford F-150 Raptor, exploring its evolution from a groundbreaking concept to an icon.
Origins Of The Ford F-150 Raptor
The roots of the Ford F-150 Raptor can be traced back to the early 2000s when Ford recognized a growing demand for capable, high-performance off-road trucks among enthusiasts.
In response, the company embarked on a mission to develop a vehicle that could conquer the toughest terrain while still delivering sports car-like performance and reliability expected of the F-Series lineup.
The concept for the Raptor was first unveiled in 2008 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Inspired by Ford’s desert racing trucks, the Raptor promised to be a game-changer in the world of off-road vehicles. With its bold styling, aggressive stance, and purpose-built suspension system, the Raptor captured the imagination of enthusiasts.
First Generation | 2009-2014
In 2009, the Ford F-150 Raptor made its official debut, marking the beginning of a new era in off-road performance. It was developed by Ford’s Special Vehicles Team (SVT), hence it was also known as the SVT Raptor.
Powered by a robust 5.4-litre V8 engine producing 320hp and 329Nm, the first-generation Raptor was a force to be reckoned with both on and off the road. If that wasn’t enough, Ford also launched the optional 6.2-litre Boss V8 producing 411hp and 588Nm.
One of the defining features of the first-generation Raptor was its advanced off-road capabilities. Equipped with specially tuned Fox Racing shocks, skid plates, and electronic locking differentials, the Raptor was able to tackle the most challenging terrain with ease.
Second Generation | 2017-2020
Building on the success of the first-generation model, Ford introduced the second-generation F-150 Raptor in 2017. This iteration of the Raptor pushed the boundaries of off-road performance even further, incorporating a host of upgrades and enhancements designed to take the driving experience to new heights.
In terms of powertrain options though, the second-gen Raptor left enthusiasts a bit disgruntled. Egged on by environmental concerns, Ford discontinued the 6.2-litre V8, instead choosing to power this gen with a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine. Power output though was higher than ever before — 450hp and 691Nm!
Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and advanced four-wheel-drive system, this powerhouse engine pushed the Raptor from 0-100km/h in just over five seconds, making it one of the fastest pickup trucks on the market.
Third Generation | 2021 – Present
In 2021, Ford introduced the latest iteration of the F-150 Raptor. It remained almost identical in design but featured several changes in the little details. For the first time, 37-inch tyres were an option from the factory.
The base variants are still powered by the same 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6. However, Ford realised that the V6 drove away enthusiasts. So, in 2022, Ford introduced a new 5.2-litre supercharged V8 engine named the Carnivore and this is available only on the top-spec Raptor R model. It produces a mind-boggling 700hp and 870Nm.
The Raptor Brand
The F-150 Raptor drew its name from Birds of Prey and the Velociraptor dinosaur when it was first launched. Drawing inspiration from the F-150 Raptor’s success, Ford launched more products under the Raptor umbrella.
In 2019, the Ford Ranger Raptor was launched as a high-performance version of the pickup truck. Then came the high-performance Ford Bronco Raptor in 2022.
Most Popular Ford F-150 Raptor Generations In The UAE
The second and third generations of the Ford F-150 Raptor are the most popular in the UAE. While the 6.2-litre V8 from the first generation is much-loved, the V8 from the third generation is more popular because of its recency.
Find new Ford F-150 Raptor for sale in the UAE and used Ford F-150 Raptor for sale in the UAE.
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