F-150 Raptor R - New Details and a Video of it Ripping Through the Desert

UPDATED JULY 18th: 

Ford officially released specs on the upcoming 2023 F-150 Raptor R, and though it's HP is a bit lower than previously guessed, it is still the TRX rival we've all been waiting for. Its new 5.2-liter supercharged V8, same engine as the Mustang GT 500, produces 700 horsepower and 640 lb.-ft. of torque! That's just a hair under the TRX's stats, and we can't wait to see the two race across some desert whoops!

The F-150 Raptor platform is one of Ford’s most popular performance lines, and some recent leaks of the 2023 F-150 Raptor R show that this tradition is set to continue with even more muscle. While pricing or economy information hasn’t gotten out yet, here’s what we know so far. Ford's Jim Farley tweeted this video of the Raptor R, ripping through the desert.

Can't wait to share more details about F-150 Raptor R later this year. The V8 sounds amazing! #RaptorR pic.twitter.com/qTOxKvp1ll

— Jim Farley (@jimfarley98) June 14, 2022

What Powerplant Will Be In The 2023 F-150 Raptor R?

The massive engine upgrade is the most significant upgrade to the 2023 F-150 Raptor R platform. Gone is the turbo V6 found in previous Raptor iterations; the Raptor R features a Ford Shelby 5.2L V8 Predator. If that’s not enough, Ford has supercharged this beast as well, so there’s no chance your 2023 F-150 Raptor R is going to be lacking aspiration. Initial estimates put the ravenous R at about 750 HP, giving it a significant lead over similar trucks in its class. Nudge, nudge, TRX...

The throaty dual exhaust system ensures you’ll be heard before your audience sees you roll up. Additionally, we’ll likely see the same transmission as the Shelby GT500 Mustang. That means you’ll be tearing up the pavement with a 10-speed, dual-clutch automatic, though there is the potential that Ford will upgrade this to the 7-speed DCT that can provide lightning-quick shifting.

Aesthetic Upgrades Available For The 2023 Raptor R

For those that want a look to match the essence of performance that the 2023 F-150 Raptor R embodies, Ford has you covered. The Raptor R will include 17-inch forged aluminum wheels unique to the Raptor R platform. There’s also been a sweet grille upgrade spotted, with an added “R” beneath the usual Ford oval script grille badging.

One of the leaked images was of a window sticker that shows the current lineup of color options for the new Raptor R. When you order yours, you’ll be able to choose from Avalanche Gray, Antimatter Blue, Agate Black, Area 51, Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat, Code Orange, Iconic Silver, and Oxford White.

What Else Is New On The 2023 F-150 Raptor R?

From some of the leaked images, it looks like Ford has redesigned some suspension components. The rear end looks to have upgraded trailing arms, so the Raptor R stays planted to the pavement when you push that pedal.

This also gives the 37-inch all-terrain tires some enhanced off-roading ability when you inevitably take them on some adventures in the wild. The five-link rear suspension keeps as much traction as possible on the trail where you need it.

When Can You Build & Order One?

The building and ordering of your own 2023 F-150 Raptor R can officially begin sometime this fall. Ford hasn’t been too specific with dates, but they won’t be keeping this darling locked away for too much longer.

Will 3rd Gen Raptor Bumpers Fit The Raptor R?

Since fitment measurements haven’t been made available yet, there’s no telling for sure. While we hope that a similar body style as the previous Raptor means that things like bumper upgrades will fit just fine, we’ll be making sure to test fit our line of 3rd Gen Raptor Bumpers the moment they’re released, adjusting as needed.