If you want your monster truck to be fast and loud then the Ford F-150 Raptor R shouldn’t disappoint. The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R could have an exclusive transmission to enhance its racing performance with the Predator V8 engine. 

The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R might get a 7-speed DCT transmission 

There is plenty of talk about the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R getting the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine from the Mustang Shelby 500. It could have 760 hp and 625 lb-ft of torque. It could outrace the Ram 1500 TRX. 

On that note, the Ram 1500 TRX has a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine with 702 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. We wonder how these trucks will stack up against each other as the F-150 brings more horsepower and less torque to the table. 

Also, the regular Ford F-150 Raptor has a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. So at least the Raptor R has a significant increase in power. 

But instead of being paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Raptor R could get a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for a sportier performance. The Tremec 7-speed DCT transmission is currently only paired with the Predator V8 engine in the GT500. 

What else do we know about the F-150 Raptor R? 

The 2023 Ford Raptor R could debut soon. As we get closer to its production date, were starting to receive more teasers and spy images. In some of these images, the Raptor R is sporting less camouflage, indicating that we’re getting closer to its official reveal date. 

Recently, a video was released where you can hear the Raptor R roar. Around the seven-second mark, you can hear the truck shift gears, and it sounds different than before. The difference could be related to the 7-speed DCT. 

Also, the Raptor R could have a better ride. Spy shots provide a glimpse at upgraded suspension components. It could have different trailing arms for the rear suspension. They could be more robust to account for the truck’s extra speed, weight, and power.

Reportedly, the Ford F-150 Raptor R uses a five-link rear suspension with coil springs and Fox Live Valve shocks. 

You can see larger exhaust pipes that allow the supercharged V8 to vent gasses. It could ride on optional 17-inch aluminum forged wheels wrapped in 37-inch all-terrain tires. An electronically locking rear differential might be optional too. 

How much does the 2023 F-150 Raptor R cost? 

The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R might start around $75,000. We will update you once the official pricing is released. The regular Ford F-150 Raptor has an MSRP of $69,525. The price of the Raptor R could increase by a few thousand to cover the cost of powerful upgrades. 

Also, the 2022 Ram 1500 TRX starts at about $77,780, so it would be great if the Raptor R provides a competitive price. But we have to wait a little to learn more. 

We wonder how the Raptor R will do on fuel. The Shelby GT500 gets an EPA-estimated 12 mpg in the city and up to 18 mpg on the highway. 

Stay tuned for the latest updates. We could learn more about the Ford F-150 Raptor R any day now and can’t wait to get behind the wheel.