The 2017 Ford Raptor burst onto the scene as the undisputed monarch of off-road pickups. Imagine navigating the tight alleyways of a city, and suddenly you’re behind the wheel of this beast, a 2017 Raptor. Its sheer size is immediately apparent, a towering presence that demands respect, and a little caution, especially when maneuvering through urban environments. But the city is not its natural habitat. The 2017 Raptor is built for raw power and untamed landscapes, designed to conquer dirt trails and dominate dunes. This review delves into what makes the 2017 Ford Raptor a legend in the off-road world, exploring its performance, features, and why it remains a top choice for adventure enthusiasts.
Conquering City Streets and Beyond: The 2017 Raptor Experience
Initially launched in 2010, the Raptor immediately set a new benchmark for off-road trucks. It was an unapologetically aggressive machine, prioritizing rugged capability over everyday sensibility. For off-road enthusiasts, the Raptor was a dream come true. However, the 2017 model year brought about changes that stirred both excitement and some apprehension among loyal fans, primarily the replacement of the beloved 6.2-liter V8 engine and the introduction of a new aluminum body.
Ford opted for a more compact yet potent 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine for the 2017 Raptor. This engine delivers an impressive 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Despite concerns from some about the downsizing, this new powerplant actually surpasses the previous V8’s 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque. Furthermore, the aluminum body construction contributes to a significant weight reduction of 500 pounds. This combination of increased power and reduced weight translates to enhanced performance both on and off the road, making the 2017 Raptor a truly improved machine.
The enhancements didn’t stop there. Ford significantly improved the wheel travel for this second-generation 2017 Raptor, boosting it to 13 inches in the front and 13.9 inches in the rear. This upgrade positions the Raptor as a genuine Baja-ready vehicle straight from the factory floor. Its off-road prowess was even validated when Ford entered a stock 2017 Raptor in the grueling 2016 Baja 1000 race, where it impressively secured a podium finish after conquering 1,000 miles of challenging Mexican desert terrain. Adding to the feat, the team drove the very same Raptor back to Arizona after the race, proving its durability and real-world usability.
Terrain Management Masterclass: Drive Modes of the 2017 Raptor
However, the 2017 Raptor is not solely designed for high-speed desert runs. Its sophisticated terrain management system, featuring six distinct drive modes and an advanced transfer case, allows it to excel in a variety of environments. Whether it’s rock crawling, mud bogging, high-speed driving, snow driving, or even just navigating normal roads, the 2017 Raptor is engineered to adapt. It’s as close to a do-it-all performance truck as you can get.
The Baja mode is where the 2017 Raptor truly comes alive. Engaging Baja mode via a button press activates four-wheel drive with an even torque distribution between the front and rear axles. An innovative anti-lag system keeps the turbochargers spooled up, even when the driver momentarily lifts off the throttle. This is crucial for maintaining momentum and responsiveness in off-road driving scenarios where throttle modulation is frequent. The transmission intelligently locks out the top five gears of the 10-speed automatic, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Importantly, drivers can still choose to override the system and engage two-wheel drive in Baja mode, sending all the power to the rear wheels for a more playful and dynamic driving experience in the dirt.
For extreme low-speed technical terrain, Rock mode is the answer. This mode locks the rear differential and engages four-low, providing a 50:1 crawl ratio. This maximizes traction for ascending steep and uneven rocky surfaces. While the 2017 Raptor boasts respectable approach, breakover, and departure angles (30, 22, and 23 degrees respectively), comparable to the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, it’s important to acknowledge that a smaller, more agile vehicle like a two-door Jeep Rubicon might be more suitable for dedicated rock crawling enthusiasts.
Mud and Sand mode optimizes the 2017 Raptor for low-traction environments. It locks the transfer case in a 50/50 torque split four-wheel-drive setting and automatically locks the rear differential when needed. The transmission holds gears longer, and traction control is relaxed, allowing for wheel spin which is often beneficial in maintaining momentum through mud or sand. The standard BF Goodrich KO2 35-inch tires are a significant asset in these conditions, and further traction can be gained by airing them down.
Weather mode leverages the 2017 Raptor’s advanced transfer case to essentially function as an all-wheel-drive system. The system can dynamically route power to the front wheels when it detects a loss of traction, enhancing stability in slippery conditions. The throttle response is also softened in this mode to minimize wheel spin, and traction control is maximized. This sophisticated system sets the 2017 Raptor apart, as it was the only truck in its class at the time to offer this level of intelligent terrain adaptation.
On-Road Manners and Daily Drivability of the 2017 Raptor
Beyond its off-road prowess, the 2017 Raptor also offers surprisingly refined on-road driving dynamics. Sport and Normal modes cater to paved surfaces, both keeping the truck in two-wheel drive. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and holds gears for longer, providing a more engaging and spirited 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 percent compared to the previous generation Raptor, remains a consideration. The 2017 Raptor achieves EPA ratings of 15 mpg city, 18 mpg highway, and 16 mpg combined. Frequent visits to the gas station are still to be expected.
However, the 2017 Raptor demonstrates impressive composure on the highway, especially considering its off-road-focused tires and suspension. It provides a comfortable ride and exhilarating acceleration in Sport mode, with smooth gear changes from the 10-speed automatic transmission, controllable via steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Interior, Technology, and Value of the 2017 Raptor
The 2017 Raptor is undeniably a large vehicle, requiring some adjustment for drivers unaccustomed to its size. Features like blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system are valuable aids, although they were part of a premium option package. This package also included desirable features like heated and cooled seats, trailer backup assist, and the Sync 3 infotainment system with navigation. Additional driver-assistance technologies such as lane departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control were available in a separate technology package. Bundling the blind-spot monitoring and 360-degree camera with the technology package might have been a more logical configuration.
The Sync 3 infotainment system in the tested 2017 Raptor was praised for its responsiveness, user-friendly interface, and integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Voice recognition and pinch-to-zoom functionality further enhance usability. The Ford MyPass app allows for remote vehicle control and status monitoring. While not a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Raptor does offer Wi-Fi for over-the-air updates.
The interior of the 2017 Raptor is remarkably spacious, and the available leather-trimmed seats offer both support and comfort. However, some interior materials were noted to feel less premium, particularly the climate control buttons and center console.
The 2017 Raptor: A Class of One
The 2017 Ford Raptor essentially occupies a unique segment with limited direct competition. No other full-size pickup truck at the time combined off-road performance and high-speed desert running capability to the same degree. While the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro offered off-road capabilities, they are mid-size trucks with significantly less horsepower. The Ram Power Wagon, while similar in size, utilizes solid axles, making it less suitable for high-speed desert driving compared to the Raptor’s independent front suspension.
Starting at a base price of $49,265, the 2017 Raptor presented a compelling value proposition, especially when considering the cost of custom-built off-road rigs that lack factory warranties. However, the price can escalate considerably with option packages. The test vehicle, loaded with nearly $17,490 in options, reached a total price of $69,995 including delivery. While some options, like the graphics package and premium option package, significantly increase the price, the core capability and unique character of the 2017 Raptor remain undeniable.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the 2017 Raptor
The 2017 Ford Raptor solidified its position as the king of factory off-road trucks. It successfully blended raw power, advanced technology, and refined driving dynamics into a package that was both exhilarating off-road and surprisingly capable on-road. While its size and fuel economy are considerations, the 2017 Raptor delivers an unmatched driving experience for those seeking adventure and performance. It remains a highly sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts who demand the best in off-road capability without sacrificing daily usability. The 2017 Raptor is more than just a truck; it’s a statement of off-road dominance and a testament to Ford’s engineering prowess.
