Overview

The third-generation Ford F-150 Raptor will have to fly higher, pound deserts faster, and look meaner than the model it replaces. Everyone would probably also be delighted if it had a more powerful version of the current one's 450-hp twin-turbo V-6. Or—better yet—if it's once again offered with a visceral V-8. Regardless of what's under the hood, the next Raptor will still be a bulkier body double of the regular F-150. Likewise, it'll have impressive off-road equipment, such as large all-terrain tires and a sophisticated long-travel suspension. Ford will also probably offer its high-performance pickup truck with the same technology and innovative features that highlight the new mainstream model. While there's still a lot we have to learn about the 2021 F-150 Raptor, here's what we know so far.

What's New for 2021?

Now that Ford has revealed the all-new F-150, it's only a matter of time until it's followed up with the obligatory Raptor version. While the automaker hasn't revealed any information about this highly anticipated model, we've commissioned a rendering and broke down what to expect about the truck's potential.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Since there's no official details about the 2021 Raptor, we can only speculate on how much it'll cost. We expect Ford to share more information on the new model later this year, and we think that it could go on sale sometime next year.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

While Ram is preparing a 700-plus-horsepower version of its own half-ton pickup truck—not-so-subtlety called the TRX—we can only guess whether Ford will respond with an equally powerful engine for the Raptor. Rumors that it could get a version of the Shelby GT500's 760-hp supercharged V-8 are extremely tantalizing. Or maybe the Blue Oval gives it the 660-hp EcoBoost V-6 that powers its GT hypercar. Hopes and dreams aside, we expect the current truck's twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6, which makes 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, will carry over as the standard engine option. It'll pair with the same paddle-shifted 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. Of course, the Raptor's defining performance feature will continue to be its beefy long-travel suspension. This special setup, along with its gnarly oversized tires and optional limited-slip front differential, allow the truck to leap through the air and power across all manner of rugged terrain.

Towing and Payload Capacity

Although we know that the new F-150 can tow more than its predecessor, we don't have any details on the Raptor's ratings. The current model can pull up to 8000 pounds and haul up to 1200 pounds in its cargo bed. We expect the next generation to either stand pat or have increased max capacities.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Neither Ford nor the EPA have announced fuel-economy ratings for the 2021 F-150 Raptor. Once those numbers are released, and we have the opportunity to test one on our 200-mile highway route, we can evaluate its real-world mpg.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Ford didn't dramatically overhaul the new F-150's interior, but it enhanced the space with more technology and lots of work-friendly features. Since the Raptor's cabin will be virtually identical to the regular truck's, we expect it to have the same innovative options, such as the Interior Work Surface and the Max Recline Seats. The former creates a flat desk-like surface on the center console and the latter allows the front seats to fold almost completely flat for passengers who want to take a nap. The new Raptor could also receive a set of bolstered Recaro front seats, similar to the chairs that the current model offers. We expect the mightiest F-150 to continue to be available as either an extended cab (SuperCab) or a crew cab (SuperCrew) with a single 5.5-foot cargo bed. There's a distinct possibility that the new F-150's multifunctional tailgate, which has useful mounting points and holders for smartphones or tablets.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Raptor will inherit an infotainment system from the regular F-150, which comes standard with an 8.0-inch touchscreen that supports Ford's improved Sync 4 software. While a larger horizontally oriented 12.0-inch touchscreen could be standard or optional, both systems can also be controlled through a mix of physical controls and voice commands. Popular features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot should be standard; top options will probably include built-in navigation and an upgraded B&O stereo.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2021 F-150 Raptor hasn't been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The truck should be available with a variety of driver-assistance technology. Key safety features will likely include:

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking

Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

While Ford doesn't offer that complimentary maintenance that rivals from Chevy, GMC, and Toyota, the company does have a competitive limited and powertrain warranty.