The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor roared onto the scene, setting a new benchmark for off-road trucks straight from the factory. As I approached the imposing figure of the Raptor, waiting to navigate the tight alleyway behind our San Francisco office, the sheer size of this beast became immediately apparent. Standing over six and a half feet tall, the 2017 F-150 Raptor commands respect and begs the question: can something this large truly be agile and fun? My initial moments behind the wheel were a test of spatial awareness, a far cry from the open desert this truck is designed to conquer.
Navigating the urban jungle in the 2017 F-150 Raptor is an experience in itself. Maneuvering through narrow streets and attempting to park the SuperCrew model, with its substantial 12-foot wheelbase and over 19-foot overall length, felt like a humorous challenge. Street parking in San Francisco is rarely forgiving, but the Raptor’s saving grace was its comprehensive 360-degree camera system. This technology transformed a potentially stressful parking scenario into a manageable task, allowing me to confidently position the wide truck, even nudging the curbside tires onto the sidewalk to clear obstacles.
The Raptor first debuted in 2010, immediately capturing attention as an uncompromising, high-performance off-road pickup. For 2017, Ford introduced the second generation Raptor, sparking both excitement and some initial apprehension among enthusiasts. The primary concerns revolved around two significant changes: the replacement of the beloved 6.2-liter V8 engine with a smaller 3.5-liter turbocharged V6, and the adoption of an aluminum body.
However, these changes proved to be advancements rather than drawbacks. The new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivers a potent 450 horsepower and a substantial 510 pound-feet of torque. This is a noteworthy improvement over the previous V8, which produced 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque. Furthermore, the aluminum body construction resulted in a significant weight reduction of 500 pounds. This combination of increased power and reduced weight translates to enhanced performance and agility for the 2017 F-150 Raptor.
Ford engineers further enhanced the Raptor’s off-road prowess by increasing wheel travel. The 2017 model boasts 13 inches of front and 13.9 inches of rear wheel travel, positioning it as a true Baja prerunner directly from the factory. Its off-road credibility was emphatically validated when a near-stock 2017 Raptor entered and successfully completed the grueling 2016 Baja 1000 race, even securing a podium finish. Adding to the feat, the team drove the same truck back home to Arizona after the race, showcasing its durability and roadworthiness.
Beyond high-speed desert running, the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is engineered for versatility across diverse terrains. Its Terrain Management System, featuring six distinct drive modes, coupled with an advanced transfer case, enables it to excel in rock crawling, mud driving, snow conditions, and even everyday on-road driving – albeit with a unique Raptor flair.
Terrain Management System: A Mode for Every Adventure
The heart of the Raptor’s adaptability lies in its Terrain Management System. Baja mode is where the off-road magic truly happens. Engaging Baja mode automatically shifts the truck into four-wheel drive, distributing torque evenly between the front and rear axles. An innovative anti-lag system keeps the turbochargers spooled, ensuring immediate power delivery even when modulating the throttle – a crucial feature for maintaining momentum in off-road environments. In Baja mode, the 10-speed automatic transmission restricts itself to the lower gears, keeping the engine in the optimal rev range for aggressive driving, whether using paddle shifters or letting the transmission manage gear selection automatically. Crucially, drivers can override the system to maintain two-wheel drive in Baja mode, allowing for more rear-wheel-drive fun and dirt-roosting capability.
For technical rock crawling, Rock mode engages four-low and locks the rear differential, providing a 50:1 crawl ratio for maximum torque and control on steep inclines. Approach, breakover, and departure angles are critical in rock crawling, and the Raptor offers respectable figures: a 30-degree approach angle, a 22-degree breakover angle, and a 23-degree departure angle. While these are comparable to the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, they are less aggressive than a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, highlighting that for extreme rock crawling, a smaller, more nimble vehicle might be preferable.
Mud and Sand mode optimizes the 2017 F-150 Raptor for low-traction environments. It locks the truck into a 50/50 torque split in four-wheel drive and automatically engages the rear differential for maximum traction. The transmission holds gears longer, and traction control is relaxed, allowing for wheel spin to maintain momentum through mud or sand. The standard BF Goodrich KO2 35-inch tires are exceptional in these conditions, especially when aired down to further enhance grip.
For inclement weather, Weather mode utilizes the Raptor’s sophisticated transfer case to function similarly to an all-wheel-drive system. Power is proactively distributed to the front wheels when sensors detect a loss of traction. Throttle response is softened to prevent wheel spin on slippery surfaces, and traction control is maximized for enhanced stability. This advanced transfer case technology is unique to the Raptor in the truck market, providing an added layer of safety and control in challenging weather.
The Terrain Management System in the 2017 F-150 Raptor effectively elevates driver capability across diverse landscapes. It simplifies complex off-road driving scenarios, although it still requires driver skill and judgment, especially when tackling demanding obstacles. The Raptor empowers drivers to confidently tackle steep slopes, deep whoops, and challenging terrain, fostering a strong connection between driver, machine, and the environment.
For everyday driving on paved roads, the Raptor offers Sport and Normal modes. Both modes operate in two-wheel drive. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears for longer, offering a more engaging driving experience. Normal mode prioritizes fuel efficiency with an automatic stop-start system and earlier upshifts, which might be less appealing to drivers seeking a more dynamic feel.
Fuel economy in the 2017 F-150 Raptor is improved by 23 percent compared to the previous generation, but it remains a consideration. EPA ratings are 15 mpg city, 18 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined. Frequent trips to the gas station are still to be expected with this high-performance truck.
On the highway, the Raptor demonstrates surprising composure, particularly given its off-road tires and specialized suspension. Sport mode and the paddle shifters provide an enjoyable experience for spirited on-road driving. The 10-speed automatic transmission, while featuring a multitude of gears, operates smoothly and responsively, quickly adapting to driver input for both acceleration and cruising.
The sheer size of the 2017 F-150 Raptor requires some adjustment for drivers unfamiliar with large trucks. Blind-spot monitoring and the 360-degree camera system are valuable aids, although they are part of a premium option package. This package also includes desirable features like heated and cooled front seats, trailer back-up assist, and the Sync 3 infotainment system with navigation. Additional driver-assistance technologies, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, are available in a separate technology package.
The Sync 3 infotainment system in the 2017 Raptor is user-friendly, featuring a responsive touchscreen, intuitive interface, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice recognition and pinch-to-zoom functionality further enhance usability. The FordPass mobile app allows for remote vehicle functions like starting, locking/unlocking, and vehicle status monitoring. Wi-Fi capability enables automatic system updates.
Inside the cabin, the 2017 F-150 Raptor offers generous space and comfortable, supportive leather-trimmed seats. However, some interior materials feel somewhat less premium, particularly the climate control buttons and center console trim.
Unrivaled in its Class
The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor essentially occupies a class of its own. No other full-size pickup truck directly competes with its blend of high-speed off-road capability and factory-backed warranty. While the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offer off-road prowess, they are midsize trucks with significantly less horsepower. The Ram Power Wagon, while similarly sized, utilizes solid axles, which compromise high-speed desert running compared to the Raptor’s independent front suspension.
The base price for the 2017 Raptor starts at $49,265, presenting a compelling value proposition considering the cost of building comparable custom off-road rigs. However, option packages can quickly escalate the price. The test vehicle, equipped with numerous options, reached a total price of $69,995, including delivery. While some options are desirable, others, like graphics packages, might be considered less essential.
Ultimately, the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is a unique and exhilarating truck. It delivers unmatched off-road performance and a thrilling driving experience, albeit with considerations for its size and fuel consumption. For those seeking the ultimate factory-built off-road pickup, the 2017 F-150 Raptor remains the undisputed king.
