2019 Ford F-150 Raptor Will Show You a Raucous Good Time
The redesigned Ford F-150, with its newly available hybrid powertrain and onboard power generator, was a gamechanger at its release. But we can’t deny the previous generation’s greatness, particularly the Raptor. The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor isn’t just an off-roading champ: It’s also one of the loudest trucks around.
In fact, the 2019 F-150 Raptor appears in Car and Driver’s “The Loudest Cars Ever Tested From Every Segment.” Exactly how loud is this truck, and should owners be concerned?
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor is this loud
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor’s engine roars to 88 decibels, louder than the latest Ram 1500 TRX. The Raptor’s beastly noise comes courtesy of its twin-turbo V6, plus all its vents and massive exhausts. At over 86 inches wide, it’s also one of the largest F-150s, and the rumbling engine feels even more pronounced up-close.
The next-gen Raptor hasn’t been released yet, but Ford promises it will be even louder than the 2019 model. According to CarBuzz, Ford researched noisy sports cars like the Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio and Nissan GT-R. The new F-150 Raptor will reportedly also have a new active-valve dual-exhaust with settings for different noise levels.
However, if the new F-150 Raptor’s engine is louder than 88 decibels, that’s an even bigger threat to your ears. The CDC cautions that extended exposure to noise levels over 70 decibels can damage your hearing. Anything above 80 decibels can cause ear pain (and even partial hearing loss) after just two hours of exposure.
Plus, repeated exposure to loud noises can cause irritability, dizziness, and headaches. Obviously, no one wants to experience these symptoms while driving. We’re not saying you can’t have fun in your F-150 Raptor, but try to take breaks between joyrides if you’re not wearing ear protection.
The Ford F-150 Raptor’s power and performance
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor’s twin-turbo V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, makes 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. It can also tow up to 8,000 pounds and carry an additional 1,200 pounds in its cargo box.
Car and Driver says this Raptor is also satisfying to drive, not just because of the exhaust note. Its suspension absorbs harsh bumps in the road with astonishing grace, and it handles like a car half its size. However, though the brake pedal is easy to modulate, sudden stops cause the suspension to turn rigid.
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor excels in an off-road setting and can even switch between four-wheel and all-wheel drive. The all-terrain tires provide excellent traction in any situation, while the suspension holds up over rocks and uneven trails. It also comes with Trail Control, allowing you to tackle hills at a set velocity.
The interior is also quite comfortable and surprisingly peaceful when you’re not gunning the motor. CD likens the F-150 Raptor’s crew cab to a studio apartment and appreciates the abundant storage cubbies.
Pricing this pickup truck
The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor was considered a little overpriced when it first dropped, starting at $52,855. And this Raptor has gotten even more expensive on the used market, possibly due to the delay of the 2021 F-150 Raptor’s release. U.S. News lists SuperCab configurations at $53,961, while SuperCrew Raptors cost $62,582 on average.
That’s a high asking price for a truck that doesn’t come with the most advanced safety features or luxurious interior elements. Still, if you want an off-roading beast with a satisfying growl, give the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor a look (and a listen).