The 2021 Ford Raptor Doesn’t Need A V8
Don’t write off the 2021 Ford Raptor just because it doesn’t have a V8 engine. We know the 2021 Ram 1500 TRX has one. Also, the 2022 Ford Raptor R will gain a V8. However, the 2021 model has a ton of power and great features without extra V8 power.
The 2021 Ford Raptor doesn’t need a V8 to be great
The 2021 Ford Raptor marks the third generation of the original off-roading desert truck. Since the first Raptor came out in 2009, it’s been designed to go fast, jump dunes, catch sand, crawl over rocks, and more.
Now the Raptor has been taken to another level, despite not having a V8 engine yet. According to Motor Trend, the new Raptor has received quality enhancing updates to be off-road ready. You can take it from the factory to the wild.
It has two new frames that have been modified to accommodate the new five-link coil-sprung rear suspension and to account for a 37-inch spare tire mounted under the bed. The shock hardware and overall tuning have been updated too. You’ll get a factory-delivered truck with 37s that have been integrated with the chassis electronics.
Plus, according to Pickup Truck Talk, the new five-link rear suspension increases ground travel and improves ride quality. There will be more control and power while driving over rough terrain at high speeds. The ground clearance is 12.0-inches with the standard 35-inch tires and 13.1-inches with the 37s.
More Ford Raptor upgrades
The 2021 Ford Raptor also next-generation Fox Live Valve internal bypass shocks with electronic control technology that absorb the impacts of jumps by adjusting the dampening based on the position of the wheel during travel. Plus, there is an extra inch of rebound travel.
Also, the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 has been revised to improve performance and reduce emissions. The new exhaust design allows for a Quiet mode to be courteous to neighbors. But the Normal, Sport, and Baja modes provide that exciting, loud rumble.
With the 10-speed automatic transmission, the towing and payload capacities have both been increased by 200 pounds, to about 8,200 and 1,400 lb.
The one-pedal drive mode coordinates acceleration and braking from the accelerator-pedal movement for more control. Trail Control acts as a cruise control feature at low speeds to manage throttle and braking as you steer.
The new Ford Raptor looks great
The 2021 Ford Raptor styling was based on an F-22 Raptor fighter jet! It’s 6-inches wider than the F-150 with a blacked-out grille and a wider skid plate, darkened taillights, aggressive daytime running lights, and more.
Plus, the interior doesn’t seem basic like the Ram 1500 TRX’s. The bucket seats are lined with leather, and they are designed with bolsters and seat backs that react to you. There is a work surface in the center with passenger storage below. Also, lockable storage is under the fold-flat rear seats.
Raptor-specific graphics in the digital instrument cluster include off-road data and turn-by-turn navigation on a 12.0-inc screen. A second 12.0-inch screen infotainment center includes the Ford Sync 4 system. It provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 360-degree camera view.
Plus, the Raptor is available with the 2.0-kilowatt Pro-Power Onboard generator to provide power even when you’re off the grid. You can also add the optional electronically locking rear differential and Torsen limited-slip differential to the front.
