Ford F-150 SVT Raptor
The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor offers an alluring blend of performance and off-road ability. Updates for 2011 have just been announced, with the changes centring on the engine and cab style choice.
The 310 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS) 5.4 litre V8 has been ditched in favour of the previously optional 6.2 litre version. Producing a much more impressive 411 bhp (306 kW / 416 PS) and 434 lb/ft (588 Nm) of torque, this larger capacity engine is a peculiar mixture of old and new. It may feature a modern aluminium cylinder head, but the block is still cast iron and there’s only a single overhead camshaft. Nevertheless, the result is the most powerful pick-up in its class.
It’s a similar story with the chassis. Although the Raptor is seven inches wider than a base F-150 to accommodate Fox Racing Shox internal triple-bypass dampers, there’s still a prehistoric leaf-spring suspended live axle at the back. Better news is the 11.2 inches (284 mm) of suspension travel at the front and 12.1 inches (307 mm) at the rear, crucial for decent off-road performance.
Whereas the 2010 Raptor was only available with the SuperCab, the 2011 model gets the option of the SuperCrew cab style. This combines a 145 inch (3,683 mm) wheelbase (which is 12 inches / 304 mm longer than standard) with a 67 inch (1,701 mm) cargo box.
Ford reckons the extra distance between the wheels gives a better ride quality, although the trade-off is a slightly reduced ramp breakover angle. That might be important if the Raptor is being used to tackle really rough terrain.
Rear seat passengers will be those most appreciative if SuperCrew is specified, though. Not only do they get proper rear doors, but leg room also increases by just over 10 inches (254 mm) to 43.5 inches (1,104 mm).
Also new for 2011 is the standard fitment of a 4.2 inch LCD screen, which sits between the instruments. This shows the status of things like the Hill Descent Control, electronic locking differential settings and the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control system. AdvanceTrac applies the brakes or reduces engine power during cornering if a gyroscope senses an imminent loss of control. In off-road mode, the screen displays the steering wheel and vehicle angles.
There are a few extra bits of kit, too. These include a head restraint for the middle back seat, 110V power inverter in the centre console, perimeter alarm, one-touch electric front windows, telescoping steering wheel and integrated spotter mirror.
The Raptor Luxury Package now features folding power exterior mirrors and a remote start system, in addition to power seats, an in-dash six CD player with eleven speakers, powered and heated front seats, powered pedals and side mirrors and dual zone climate control. 2011 sees the arrival of the Plus Package, which comprises a rear view camera and trailer brake controller.
The 2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is available to order in North America now, with deliveries due to start late this year. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to show an increase on the 2010 Raptor which cost $42,235 (about £27,400 or €33,300) with the 6.2 litre engine. The chances of it coming to Europe are, sadly, approximately nil.
The 310 bhp (231 kW / 314 PS) 5.4 litre V8 has been ditched in favour of the previously optional 6.2 litre version. Producing a much more impressive 411 bhp (306 kW / 416 PS) and 434 lb/ft (588 Nm) of torque, this larger capacity engine is a peculiar mixture of old and new. It may feature a modern aluminium cylinder head, but the block is still cast iron and there’s only a single overhead camshaft. Nevertheless, the result is the most powerful pick-up in its class.
It’s a similar story with the chassis. Although the Raptor is seven inches wider than a base F-150 to accommodate Fox Racing Shox internal triple-bypass dampers, there’s still a prehistoric leaf-spring suspended live axle at the back. Better news is the 11.2 inches (284 mm) of suspension travel at the front and 12.1 inches (307 mm) at the rear, crucial for decent off-road performance.
Whereas the 2010 Raptor was only available with the SuperCab, the 2011 model gets the option of the SuperCrew cab style. This combines a 145 inch (3,683 mm) wheelbase (which is 12 inches / 304 mm longer than standard) with a 67 inch (1,701 mm) cargo box.
Ford reckons the extra distance between the wheels gives a better ride quality, although the trade-off is a slightly reduced ramp breakover angle. That might be important if the Raptor is being used to tackle really rough terrain.
Rear seat passengers will be those most appreciative if SuperCrew is specified, though. Not only do they get proper rear doors, but leg room also increases by just over 10 inches (254 mm) to 43.5 inches (1,104 mm).
Also new for 2011 is the standard fitment of a 4.2 inch LCD screen, which sits between the instruments. This shows the status of things like the Hill Descent Control, electronic locking differential settings and the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control system. AdvanceTrac applies the brakes or reduces engine power during cornering if a gyroscope senses an imminent loss of control. In off-road mode, the screen displays the steering wheel and vehicle angles.
There are a few extra bits of kit, too. These include a head restraint for the middle back seat, 110V power inverter in the centre console, perimeter alarm, one-touch electric front windows, telescoping steering wheel and integrated spotter mirror.
The Raptor Luxury Package now features folding power exterior mirrors and a remote start system, in addition to power seats, an in-dash six CD player with eleven speakers, powered and heated front seats, powered pedals and side mirrors and dual zone climate control. 2011 sees the arrival of the Plus Package, which comprises a rear view camera and trailer brake controller.
The 2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is available to order in North America now, with deliveries due to start late this year. Prices have yet to be confirmed, but are expected to show an increase on the 2010 Raptor which cost $42,235 (about £27,400 or €33,300) with the 6.2 litre engine. The chances of it coming to Europe are, sadly, approximately nil.
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