The Ford F-150 lineup boasts a wide array of models, each tailored to different needs and preferences, starting from the no-frills XL trim. Among these, the Ford F-150 Raptor stands out as the pinnacle of the F-150 range, despite having a base price that sits below the luxurious F-150 Limited. Intrigued by its reputation, I spent a week behind the wheel of a 2019 Raptor to evaluate if Ford’s top-tier F-150 truly lives up to its multifaceted promise of being a capable daily driver, a reliable towing machine, and an exceptional off-road performer.
Ford was so eager for me to experience the F-150 Raptor that they delivered it with a full tank of gas and a simple instruction: “have fun,” leaving the definition of “fun” delightfully open-ended.
What Defines the Raptor?
Ford first unveiled the Raptor variant of the F-150 in 2009, specifically engineered as the ultimate off-road iteration of their popular truck. A decade later, the 2019 Raptor remains true to this original ethos, evolving in tandem with the standard F-150 models. The Raptor distinguishes itself with a track width approximately 6 inches wider and a ride height increased by 1 inch, complemented by distinctive fender flares. It rides on robust 17-inch bead-lock capable wheels shod with substantial BFGoodrich K02 all-terrain tires. A notable upgrade for the 2019 Raptor is the inclusion of adaptive Fox shocks, which dynamically adjust damping based on the selected drive mode, controllable via steering wheel buttons.
Under the hood, the 2019 Raptor houses a high-output version of Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with Ford’s smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.
The model I tested carried a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) just under $75,000.
Daily Driving Experience in a 2019 Raptor
Having driven numerous F-150s and even owned two previously, the experience of daily commuting in a Ford F-150 is quite familiar to me. The cabin layout and features of the 2019 Raptor mirrored those of my recently owned 2018 F-150 Lariat. The Bang & Olufsen sound system, SYNC 3 infotainment, and the overall cabin ambiance were all comfortably recognizable. However, the 2019 Raptor introduced several enhancements to the standard F-150 formula, making it a more enjoyable daily driver compared to its non-Raptor counterparts.
The adaptive Fox shocks, renowned for their off-road prowess, significantly improved the on-road ride quality of the 2019 Raptor compared to my personal Lariat. Unladen, standard F-150s can exhibit a somewhat jarring ride, particularly over bumps and road imperfections. The Raptor’s suspension effectively mitigates these issues, providing a substantially smoother ride.
My test 2019 Raptor was also equipped with the optional Recaro seats, distinguished by blue accents. These leather and Alcantara seats offered enhanced support and bolstering, a feature that arguably should be available on higher-end non-Raptor F-150 trims as well.
Fuel economy was a notable drawback of the 2019 Raptor. The added bulk from its off-road components contributes to a less aerodynamic profile compared to a standard 3.5L EcoBoost XLT or similar F-150 models. Another consideration was the truck’s substantial width. While utilizing the same “SuperCrew” cab as other F-150s, the Raptor’s increased track width, approximately 6 inches wider with matching fender flares, presents challenges. While the fender flares were manageable, the increased width made parallel parking in urban environments a slightly comical affair, often requiring multiple attempts as the truck simply exceeded the available space.
Towing Capabilities of the 2019 Raptor
A key aspect of this review was to assess the 2019 Raptor‘s towing capabilities. Frankly, this was the part of the week-long test that caused the most apprehension. My enclosed trailer had performed admirably behind both my 5.0L Lariat and a 3.5L EcoBoost XLT. However, the Raptor’s softer spring rates and Fox shocks, primarily designed for off-road conditions, raised concerns about towing performance.
Nevertheless, the 2019 Raptor in SuperCrew configuration is rated to tow up to 8,000 lbs with a weight distribution hitch (or 5,000 lbs without). I proceeded to hitch my trailer, engage the weight distribution bars, and embark on a Saturday towing test to evaluate the truck’s behavior with a significant load. The trailer, featuring a 20-foot box and a 4-foot V-nose, measures approximately 27 feet in total length and weighs around 6,500 lbs when loaded.
To my pleasant surprise, the 2019 Raptor handled the trailer with remarkable composure. The rear suspension exhibited a slight sag, which could likely be further minimized by adjusting the hitch ball height. Ford asserts that the shocks maintain “normal” stiffness in Tow/Haul mode, and indeed, the ride and chassis control remained excellent, even at highway speeds where passing semi-trucks created turbulent air pockets that could disturb the trailer. The high-output EcoBoost V6 engine provided ample power, and the 10-speed transmission worked seamlessly with the turbocharged engine to manage the load.
Online forums suggest that some 2019 Raptor owners who frequently tow may opt to install aftermarket airbags in the rear suspension to further mitigate squatting. In my experience, this seemed unnecessary, as I felt entirely confident towing the trailer. However, it’s conceivable that controlling a larger, heavier trailer might present more of a challenge.
Off-Road Performance of the 2019 Raptor
Initially, my plans didn’t include off-roading with the 2019 Raptor, but the temptation to explore its capabilities off the paved road proved irresistible. Gathering a few friends, we ventured into the George Washington National Forest to tackle the trail to the summit of Flagpole Knob.
Flagpole Knob isn’t an exceptionally demanding trail. We had previously navigated it with ease in our budget-friendly all-wheel-drive vehicles. However, East Coast trails, particularly in Virginia, often lack the width to comfortably accommodate the Raptor’s substantial dimensions. Keen to return the 2019 Raptor to Ford without any unwelcome scratches, the wide gravel and dirt path leading to Flagpole’s summit seemed the most prudent choice.
The ascent to Flagpole’s summit features long, straight sections allowing for good visibility, along with undulating surfaces that can make typical off-road vehicles feel somewhat unsettled. Engaging “Baja mode” via the Drive Mode buttons, selecting manual transmission mode, and positioning my fingers on the metal paddle shifters, we began our off-road exploration.
The 2019 Raptor is equipped with sensors that detect when the vehicle becomes airborne. In models from 2019 onwards with adaptive shocks, these shocks automatically stiffen to prepare for landing. While we didn’t catch air on this trail, the uneven terrain provided ample opportunity for the shocks to demonstrate their effectiveness. We traversed the trail at speeds that would typically induce significant bouncing and discomfort in most vehicles, yet the occupants of the Raptor’s cabin remained remarkably comfortable. The truck simply made off-roading feel effortless.
Reaching a spot near the summit, I decided to test the 2019 Raptor’s large BFGoodrich tires in a mild mud pit. Unsurprisingly, this posed no challenge for the truck or its tires, but it did provide some excellent photo opportunities.
Is the 2019 Raptor a Well-Rounded Truck?
In short, yes. While the 2019 Raptor isn’t designed to be the ultimate street truck, it offers a more comfortable ride than a standard F-150 and capably handles most typical “truck duties.” For those requiring heavier towing or payload capacities, Ford offers non-Raptor F-150 variants that are better suited for such tasks and less inclined to high-speed desert runs.
However, if navigating tight parking spaces isn’t a primary concern, and you desire a truck equally at home in a grocery store parking lot, hauling a race car, or tackling off-road trails, the 2019 Raptor presents a very compelling argument for ownership.
Jake Thiewes
Automotive enthusiast. Avid Queso lover. Always encouraging track days and performance driving education for everyone to improve their driving skills.
