Introduction
The 2025 Ford F‑150 Raptor R arrives as the newest chapter in Ford’s performance‑truck lineage. Marrying the classic utility of the F‑150 platform with a Shelby‑inspired supercharged V8, the Raptor R targets buyers who need a workhorse that can also dominate desert runs, drag strips, and demanding job sites. With a factory‑quoted price that starts around $112,400, the truck promises 720 horsepower, a 0‑60 mph sprint in roughly 3.7 seconds, and a respectable tow rating near 8,200 lb. It competes directly with the Ram 1500 RHO, Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Bison, and GMC Sierra AT4X, while offering unique features such as Fox Live‑Valve shocks, 37‑inch all‑terrain tires, and Ford’s Pro Access Tailgate.
Design & Exterior
From the moment you see the 2025 Raptor R, its aggressive stance is unmistakable. The wide‑body architecture widens the track by a few inches, giving the truck a planted look that belies its off‑road intent. A new, larger grille with a brushed‑metal accent frames the Ford blue oval, while LED headlamps and daytime running lights cut a crisp silhouette. The fenders are heavily sculpted to accommodate 37‑inch tires, and the hood features functional vents that aid cooling for the supercharged engine.
Overall dimensions put the Raptor R on the larger side of the full‑size segment: a length of 232.9 in, width of 86.6 in (excluding mirrors), height of 79.8 in, and a 145‑in wheelbase. Ground clearance stands at 13 in, enough to clear most obstacles on a trail without sacrificing on‑road stability. The truck rides on 17‑inch forged wheels that can be converted to bead‑lock setups for serious off‑roaders. Exterior paint options include the eye‑catching “Code Orange,” a sober “Shadow Black,” and a classic “Oxford White,” each paired with factory‑installed Raptor graphics.
The cargo bed measures 67.1 in in length, offering a payload capacity of 2,440 lb. Ford has equipped the rear with the Pro Access Tailgate, which can be opened with a foot‑activated sensor, a remote app command, or manually, providing easy entry for heavy loads. Integrated LED lighting strips run along the bed’s edges, ensuring visibility for nighttime work or camp setups.
Interior & Technology
Step inside, and the cabin balances ruggedness with upscale touches. The Raptor R retains the SuperCrew layout, offering five seats upholstered in a mix of leather‑grade textile and suede‑look inserts. Front seats are heated and ventilated, while the rear bench folds flat for expanded cargo space. Ambient lighting runs in three zones, allowing owners to select colors that match their mood or work environment.
The dash is dominated by a 12‑inch touchscreen that runs Ford’s latest SYNC 4 system. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, delivering navigation, music, and messaging without a clutch cable. Directly behind the steering wheel, a 12‑inch fully digital instrument cluster provides real‑time data on speed, fuel consumption, and a suite of off‑road metrics such as suspension travel, hill descent angle, and tire pressure.
Audio options include a standard six‑speaker system, with a premium 18‑speaker Bang & Olufsen package available for those who demand concert‑hall sound. Dual‑zone automatic climate control, a hands‑free power tailgate, and a wireless charging pad round out the technological amenities.
Powertrain & Performance
At the heart of the 2025 Raptor R sits a 5.2‑liter supercharged V8, delivering a jaw‑dropping 720 hp at 6,500 rpm and 640 lb‑ft of torque at 4,250 rpm. The engine is mated to a robust 10‑speed automatic transmission equipped with a split‑torque transfer case, giving the truck a permanent 4‑wheel‑drive setup. The drivetrain’s torque distribution can be adjusted on the fly, allowing drivers to send more power to the rear wheels for drag‑strip launches or to the front for challenging rock‑crawl passages.
Ford claims a combined fuel economy of roughly 10 mpg city and 15 mpg highway (4.7 km/l and 6.4 km/l). In practice, real‑world mixed‑use numbers hover around 4–5 km/l, particularly when the truck is loaded or operating on steep inclines. The 36‑gallon fuel tank provides a practical range of 150‑200 miles between fill‑ups during heavy use. Acceleration from 0‑60 mph is quoted at 3.7 seconds, putting the Raptor R in supercar territory despite its 6,000‑lb curb weight.
Off‑Road Capability
Ford has equipped the Raptor R with a suite of hardware designed to take on the toughest terrain. The Fox 3.1 Live‑Valve shocks feature 14 in of front travel and 15 in of rear travel, automatically adjusting damping rates based on input from a network of accelerometers and wheel‑speed sensors. This system keeps the ride composed on high‑speed desert runs while providing the compliance needed for rock‑crawl obstacles.
The 37‑inch all‑terrain tires sit on beadlock‑compatible wheels, allowing owners to increase tire pressure for on‑road efficiency or lower it for maximum traction on loose surfaces. A dedicated “Baja” mode locks the front differential and raises the ride height for deep‑sand travels, while “Trail” mode optimizes throttle response and traction control for low‑speed technical sections. Hill‑Descent Control and a selectable front‑axle disconnect further enhance driver confidence when descending steep grades.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Standard safety equipment on the Raptor R is extensive. The Ford Co‑Pilot360 suite includes adaptive cruise control with stop‑and‑go, lane‑keeping assist, pre‑collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and blind‑spot monitoring with rear cross‑traffic alert. The truck also features a 360‑degree camera system that provides a bird’s‑eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, complete with dynamic guidelines for parking and low‑speed maneuvering.
Inside, up to seven airbags protect occupants: front, side, and knee airbags for the driver; side airbags for the front passenger; and curtain airbags that span the entire cabin width. Electronic stability control, traction control, and hill‑start assist round out the list, making the Raptor R a safe platform for both work and play.
Fuel Efficiency & Running Costs
While the Raptor R’s fuel consumption is far from frugal, the truck’s cost of ownership remains reasonable for a vehicle in this performance class. The 36‑gallon tank refuels in roughly three minutes at a fast‑fill station. Average fuel prices translate to an operating cost of about $3.50 per gallon, or roughly $0.12 per kilometer, when driven in mixed conditions.
Maintenance intervals are typical for full‑size pickups: regular oil changes every 7,500 mi, brake inspection at 15,000 mi, and tire rotations each 6,000 mi. Expected annual service costs range from $1,000 to $1,500, depending on usage intensity. Ford backs the powertrain with a three‑year/36,000‑mile bumper‑to‑bumper warranty, and the chassis receives a five‑year/60,000‑mile guarantee.
Pricing & Availability
In the United States, the base Raptor R starts at $112,385 MSRP. Options such as the Bang & Olufsen audio package, a premium leather interior, and extra off‑road equipment can push the sticker price toward $120,000. For international markets, the truck is expected to launch in late 2025 with localized pricing; in India, for example, the on‑road cost is projected between ₹1.05 crore and ₹1.10 crore after taxes and fees.
Ford dealers will offer limited‑time incentives, typically up to $2,000 off for fleet purchases or loyalty customers. Lead times for new orders are estimated at 1‑2 months, with the possibility of longer waits for special‑order color combinations or accessories.
Ownership Experience
Early owners praise the Raptor R’s visceral engine note, which draws comparisons to classic Shelby Mustangs. The combination of massive torque and the refined 10‑speed transmission delivers effortless passing power on highways and enviable launch performance on drag strips. Inside the cabin, the blend of rugged materials and modern tech creates a comfortable environment for both long hauls and weekend adventures.
That said, the truck’s size can be a drawback in tight urban settings; maneuvering through narrow streets and parking structures requires patience. Fuel economy remains a concern for daily commuters, and the base interior, while functional, lacks the sumptuous feel of some premium rivals. At present, a hybrid powertrain option is not offered, limiting appeal for buyers seeking reduced emissions.
Competitor Comparison
When stacked against its $110‑$120 k peers, the Raptor R distinguishes itself with a higher horsepower output (720 hp vs. roughly 650 hp for the Ram 1500 RHO) and an arguably more sophisticated suspension system. The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 Bison boasts excellent off‑road hardware but trails in raw acceleration. GMC’s Sierra AT4X matches the Raptor R in capability but falls short in brand‑recognizable performance heritage. Overall, the Raptor R offers a compelling mix of power, technology, and resale value that appeals to both work‑truck buyers and performance enthusiasts.
Final Verdict
Ford’s 2025 F‑150 Raptor R is not a compromise; it is a purpose‑built machine that embraces the truck’s traditional role as a work vehicle while injecting a level of performance usually reserved for sports cars. Its supercharged V8, advanced Fox suspension, and robust suite of driver‑assist features make it a versatile tool for those who need to tow, haul, and explore. While fuel efficiency and city‑driving practicality are not its strongest suits, the Raptor R delivers an exhilarating experience that few competitors can match. For buyers seeking a high‑performance pickup that can also serve as a capable off‑roader and a comfortable daily driver, the 2025 Raptor R is a top‑tier choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does the Raptor R’s fuel economy compare to the standard F‑150?
The Raptor R’s EPA‑rated combined fuel economy is about 12 mpg, noticeably lower than the standard gasoline F‑150, which averages around 20 mpg. The difference stems from the larger supercharged V8 and the heavier off‑road equipment.
2. Can the Raptor R be equipped with a diesel engine?
For the 2025 model year, Ford offers only the 5.2‑liter supercharged gasoline V8 for the Raptor R. A diesel option is not available, although the regular F‑150 lineup continues to include a diesel powertrain for other trims.
3. What is the maximum towing capacity with the off‑road suspension?
When equipped with the factory‑installed Fox Live‑Valve shocks, the Raptor R retains a maximum tongue weight of 8,200 lb. Proper hitch selection and adherence to the towing guidelines are required to achieve this rating.
4. Does the truck have a built‑in winch?
A winch is not standard on the Raptor R, but an optional winch package is available through Ford’s accessories catalog. This includes a 12,000 lb electric winch mounted on the front bumper.
5. How many off‑road driving modes are available, and what do they do?
The Raptor R features four selectable off‑road modes: Baja, Trail, Rock Crawl, and Sport. Baja raises the ride height and locks the front differential for sand; Trail optimizes torque split for mixed terrain; Rock Crawl provides maximum low‑speed torque and traction control sensitivity; Sport sharpens throttle response and reduces suspension softening for on‑road performance.
Disclaimer
The information provided here reflects data available as of the 2025 model year and may be subject to change. Prices, specifications, and availability can vary by region and dealer. Prospective buyers should verify details with an authorized Ford dealer before making a purchase decision.
