Von Schledorn Auto Group Official Blog
Off-Roading in the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor
By Product Expert | Posted in Fun Stuff, New Ford Models on Thursday, October 13th, 2016 at 3:45 pm
In late 2009, a high-performance pickup began appearing in Ford dealerships nationwide, thoroughly changing the game for off-roaders for years to come. Fast-forward seven years, and we at EVS Auto Group — and our Ford locations in Random Lake and Lomira, WI in particular — are bracing for impact for the all-new 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor, set to arrive in fall of this year. So what’s new on this model, and what can we expect when its release date arrives?
2017 Ford F-150 Raptor New Features and Release Date
A Thrilling New Performance Profile
For those who might not recall, the outgoing Raptor featured a 6.2L V8 engine that capably captured the attention of all-terrain enthusiasts. Yet, it was larger and heavier than the powertrains in the direction that Ford was looking to go, which ushered in a new era for 2017: a twin-turbo, intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.5L EcoBoost engine mated to a ten-speed automatic transmission with manual-shifting mode. The result: 450 hp and 510 hp, to produce more accomplished world-conquering than ever before.
All-New Attention to Off-Roading
For 2017, the new Raptor boasts better running clearance than the outgoing model, while a new four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case maintains power distribution between front and rear wheels. It also now employs 3-inch FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology, while the all-new Terrain Management System lets an operator select from six preset modes to optimize driving dynamics depending on the environmental conditions.
Bigger and Badder than Ever
The outgoing Raptor was certainly a behemoth in its own right, but the 2017 model takes that baton to its logical extension. With the newly available SuperCrew model offering bigger doors and more interior room, the Raptor is more adept at bringing your friends along for the ride. Factor in the distinctive Raptor grille, its muscular haunches and massive front skid plate, and it’s clear that the 2017 edition recalls its heritage while also taking a bold step forward.
Read More: Specs and Features on the 2016 Ford F-150
Tough Exterior, Welcoming Interior
The muscle that is so obvious under the hood and in its exterior accents might be forgotten once you enter the cabin, given the attention to detail found therein. Along with the SYNC 3 telematics system and Raptor-specific seat stitching, buyers can choose the available Interior Color Accent Package, available Carbon Fiber Package, or a contoured steering wheel with large paddle shifters.
All told, it’s a new day for Raptor drivers. The release date of the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor at EVS Auto Group is expected to arrive in fall of 2016 as well, so schedule your test drive today!
