When the current version of the Raptor hit the market, some enthusiasts were a little disappointed. Gone was the naturally aspirated V8. Replaced by a twin-turbocharged V6, some clamored for a V8 in the Raptor. If you were among this crowd, your time has come. The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is the hardcore off-road V8-powered truck you’ve been waiting to drive.

What engine does the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R use?

This new, top-end off-road truck receives power from a 5.2-liter supercharged “Predator” V8 engine. This engine is good for 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. If this engine sounds familiar, that’s because the Ford Performance team has previously used it in the Mustang Shelby GT500.

Ford Media tells us the engine has been recalibrated for off-road use to ensure Raptor R owners have the benefits of low-end and mid-range torque when they need it. The Ford Performance team did this with:

• Upgraded exhaust manifolds
• Adding a unique oil cooler
• Installing a deeper oil pan
• Improving air intake volume

This improved engine mates to a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission to push power to all four wheels.

Is the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R faster than the Ram 1500 TRX?

All things considered, the F-150 Raptor R should hit 60 mph in 3.8 seconds compared to 4.5 seconds for the Ram TRX.

MotorTrend tells us the Ford truck revs a little higher at 7,000 RPM max compared to the TRX 6,200 RPM limit. The Ram 1500 TRX Delivers 702 horsepower while the Raptor R brings 702 ponies to the mix.

For acceleration, torque is important, and the Ram offers 650 lb-ft compared to 640 lb-ft for the Raptor R. The TRX hits its peak power level at 6,200 RPM, but the Ford Raptor R does this at 6,650 RPM, which should make the Ford a little slower.

The weight difference puts the Ford over the Ram for speed. The engine of the Raptor R is a full liter smaller in displacement than the TRX, which allows the Ford truck to be much lighter. The weight-to-power ratio is only 8.6 pounds per horsepower for the Ford, while the Ram comes in with 9.6 pounds per horsepower.

This Ford truck sits higher for more off-road fun

The Ford F-150 Raptor R rides on a set of 37-inch off-road tires. This truck also offers 13.1 inches of ground clearance and rear wheel travel of 14.1 inches. This higher position off the ground and larger tires improve the off-road angles for the Raptor R when compared to other off-road trucks.

How much does the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R cost?

The starting price is a hefty $109,145. This price makes the Raptor R the most expensive production truck in the entire market.

When can you order the Raptor R?

Order books open this fall, but no hard date has been set to let us know when you can get in line to ensure you’ll be one of the people driving the new 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R.

The V8-powered Raptor is back in the form of the Raptor R. This incredible truck has everything you need for a fun and active time out on the trails. Will you put your order in for this new Ford?

Next, check out the Ram 1500 TRX, or watch this Raptor R video below: