The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor roared onto the scene, not just as a truck, but as a statement. As I carefully maneuvered this behemoth through the narrow alley behind our San Francisco office, the sheer size of the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor became immediately apparent. Standing over six and a half feet tall, it demands respect and, more importantly, clear pathways. This isn’t just a vehicle; it’s an experience, a testament to Ford’s commitment to off-road dominance.
Navigating city streets in the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is a lesson in spatial awareness. Its SuperCrew configuration stretches over 19 feet long with a 12-foot wheelbase, making parking a strategic exercise. However, even curbs and tight spots are mere suggestions to the Raptor. Driving off a curb felt almost imperceptible, a testament to its robust off-road engineering. Finding a parking spot large enough was a challenge, but the Raptor’s arsenal of technology, including a 360-degree camera, turned a potentially stressful situation into a minor adjustment. With careful maneuvering, and a little help from modern tech, even sidewalk-adjacent parking became achievable in this wide-bodied truck.
The arrival of the Raptor in 2010 sent shockwaves through the automotive world. It was an unapologetically aggressive machine, setting a new benchmark for factory off-road trucks. For 2017, the Ford F-150 Raptor underwent significant changes, sparking both excitement and some initial skepticism among enthusiasts. The most notable shifts were the replacement of the beloved 6.2-liter V8 with a smaller, turbocharged V6 and the adoption of an aluminum body.
However, concerns about downsizing the engine were quickly dispelled. The new 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine in the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor produces a formidable 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. This is not only more powerful than the previous V8 but, combined with the aluminum body that shaved off 500 pounds, it results in a significantly improved power-to-weight ratio. The weight reduction and power increase translate to enhanced agility and responsiveness both on and off the road.
Ford didn’t just stop at the engine. The second-generation 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor boasts increased wheel travel, reaching 13 inches in the front and 13.9 inches in the rear. This substantial travel, coupled with advanced FOX Racing Shox suspension, effectively transforms the Raptor into a Baja-ready prerunner straight from the factory floor. Its off-road pedigree was even validated by Ford’s entry into the 2016 Baja 1000 race, where a near-stock Raptor completed the grueling course and achieved a podium finish. Adding to the legend, the team then drove the truck back home, further proving its durability and real-world capability.
But the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is more than just a high-speed desert runner. Its intelligent Terrain Management System, featuring six distinct drive modes and a sophisticated transfer case, allows it to excel in a variety of environments. From rock crawling to mud bogging, snow driving to everyday commuting, the Raptor is engineered to adapt and conquer.
Terrain Domination with Intelligent Drive Modes
The heart of the Raptor’s versatility lies in its drive modes, with Baja mode being the most exhilarating. Engaging Baja mode instantly transforms the truck, activating four-wheel drive with a 50/50 torque split and engaging an anti-lag system for the turbos. This anti-lag feature is crucial for off-road driving, ensuring immediate power delivery even with throttle modulation, preventing any loss of momentum. The transmission intelligently locks out the top five gears of the 10-speed automatic, keeping the engine in the optimal rev range for aggressive off-road maneuvers. For those seeking maximum rear-wheel-drive fun in the dirt, Baja mode can be further customized to maintain two-wheel drive, unleashing the full power to the rear axle for thrilling drifts and slides.
Rock mode is engineered for low-speed technical terrain. It locks the rear differential, engages four-low with a 50:1 crawl ratio, providing maximum torque and control for navigating steep inclines and rocky obstacles. While the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor boasts respectable approach, breakover, and departure angles (30, 22, and 23 degrees respectively), it’s worth noting that more specialized rock crawlers like a two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon might offer superior geometry for extreme rock crawling scenarios. However, for a full-size truck, the Raptor’s rock-crawling abilities are remarkably capable.
For mud and sand conditions, the Raptor employs a 50/50 torque split in four-wheel drive and automatically locks the rear differential for optimal traction in low-grip situations. The transmission holds gears longer, and traction control is relaxed, allowing for wheelspin necessary to maintain momentum in loose surfaces. The standard 35-inch BF Goodrich KO2 tires are exceptional in these conditions, and airing them down further enhances grip.
Weather mode leverages the Raptor’s advanced transfer case to provide all-wheel-drive capability. It intelligently distributes power to the front wheels when sensors detect loss of traction, enhancing stability in slippery conditions. The throttle response is also softened in this mode to prevent unintended wheelspin, and traction control is maximized. This sophisticated system is unique to the Raptor in the truck market, offering an added layer of confidence in inclement weather.
The Terrain Management System collectively elevates the driver’s capability, making challenging off-road terrains more accessible. While the technology assists greatly, it still requires driver skill and courage to fully exploit the Raptor’s potential, like tackling steep side slopes or high-speed whoops. When pushed, the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor delivers an unparalleled sense of connection with the terrain, rewarding adventurous drivers with an unmatched off-road experience.
For everyday driving on paved roads, Sport and Normal modes are available. Both operate in two-wheel drive, but Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer for 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 performance-oriented drivers.
Fuel economy, while improved by 23% over the previous generation, remains a consideration. The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is EPA-rated at 15 mpg city, 18 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined, meaning frequent gas station visits are still part of the ownership experience.
On the highway, the Raptor exhibits surprising composure, especially considering its off-road tires and suspension. Sport mode transforms highway merges and acceleration into thrilling events, with quick shifts via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The 10-speed automatic transmission, while seemingly excessive in gear count, operates smoothly and efficiently, seamlessly downshifting for power when needed and cruising comfortably in higher gears at highway speeds.
The interior of the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is exceptionally spacious, offering generous room for passengers and cargo. Available leather-trimmed seats provide excellent support and comfort. However, some interior materials feel less premium, particularly the lightweight plastic climate control buttons and center console, contrasting with the rugged exterior and heavy-duty skid plates.
Technology is well-integrated, with the optional SYNC 3 infotainment system standing out for its responsiveness and user-friendly interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are included, along with voice recognition and pinch-to-zoom functionality. The FordPass mobile app adds further convenience, enabling remote start, door lock/unlock, and vehicle status monitoring. While not a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Raptor does feature Wi-Fi for over-the-air updates.
Unrivaled in Its Class
The 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor essentially operates in a class of its own. No other full-size pickup truck directly replicates 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 similar in size, utilizes solid axles, making it less suited for high-speed desert running compared to the Raptor’s independent front suspension.
Starting at a base price of $49,265, the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor presents a compelling value proposition, especially when considering the cost of custom-built off-road rigs that lack factory warranties. However, option packages can quickly escalate the price. The test vehicle, loaded with nearly $17,490 in options, reached a total price of $69,995. While features like the technology package and upgraded infotainment are desirable, some options, like expensive graphics packages, might be less essential for pure performance enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor is a unique and thrilling machine. It’s a truck that delivers unmatched off-road performance with a surprising degree of on-road refinement. For those seeking the ultimate factory-built off-road pickup, the Raptor remains the king, offering an intoxicating blend of power, capability, and sheer driving fun. Just remember its size when navigating tight spaces and enjoy the untamed spirit of this off-road icon.
