Ford's 2022 Raptor is a one-of-a-kind 4WD pickup that does it all - and then some

Ford’s 2022 F-150 Raptor is a multi-faceted, all-encompassing 4WD pickup truck. We say that because it has loads of attributes that the competition wished they had. 

For starters, Raptor is a high-performance half-ton that has an impressive maximum tow capacity of 8,200 pounds with a GVWR of 7,050 pounds. 

With its 12-inch ground clearance, it can traverse nasty off-road trails, deep snow, mucky mud and slippery sand if you desire to try Baja driving if that’s on your list of fun things to do. 

But that’s far from all. Ford trucks have a nifty power locking and dampened tailgate that contains an integrated step that makes the tall 34.5-inch step into the 5x5 foot truck bed a mere 12-inch step-up and in. The innovative step pulls out from the top of the tailgate as does an assist handle. It makes for a quick, easy and secure ascent and descent. 

Then there’s the 2.0-kW mobile generator that’s mounted in the cargo bed. It can run power tools such as a radial saw, electric hedge trimmer, utility lights, microwave if camping out, or to charge battery-powered tools. When using the generator, the engine of course has to be running and when engaging the power device, you’ll notice the engine rpm’s slow down a bit. 

Raptor stands out from regular F-150s with its higher stance, larger tires, rugged looks, skid plates and hood that includes a heat extractor to help cool the engine. There’s also running boards that lower the tall 26-inch step-in into the cabin to a manageable 17-inches.  

On the inside, and aside from the heated heavily padded front and rear seats, there are a multitude of innovative features. Get this. The burly gear selector, for the 10-speed automatic transmission, powers down so the two-tier console box top can unfold over it to form a nifty 13x21.5-inch work surface. For contractors or business owners, this flat surface is ideal and a thoughtful touch where a laptop or iPad can be used and plugged in. 

Raptor is not void of the latest technology. A 12-inch touchscreen serves a host of features and functions such as FordPassConnect with 4G Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, multi-view rearview camera, climate selections, the Power Pro generator monitor and you can even send/receive emails.  

HVAC controls are large and easy to view even with gloved hands. Selections can also be displayed on the touchscreen. There’s also wireless phone charging pad. 

On the left side of the vertical stack are the 4WD selector for 2H, 4H, 4L, 4Auto gearing, plus a switch to lock the rear axle for when the going gets extra tough. There’s also a Pro-Trailer rotary switch that assists when backing a trailer. Another switch selects off-road modes of Normal, Deep Snow/Sand, Baja and Rock/Crawl. There’s also a switch for four steering modes and yet another to change the exhaust tone. Yes, even selectable exhaust tones of Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baja, the latter can only be used off-road as it sounds like a drag racer. There are also four steering modes and three damper modes for selected terrains and off-road jaunts, plus a tow-haul mode.  

Many Raptor owners will never need or use all these features but they’re nice to have in case they’re needed. And yes, owners should sit in the truck and do a deep study of the owners’ manual because there’s loads to learn and know. 

Over on the digital 12-inch long gauge cluster, and aside from displaying the speedometer and tach, modes are shown along with different pictorials for modes selected. It also displays a host of alerts, functions and features. Power pedals too are included and are nice to have especially for short or tall drivers. 

Since Raptor is only offered with a SuperCrew cab (four doors), the rear seat can hold three adults with gobs of leg and headroom. The seatbacks flip up against the bulkhead creating a flat load floor to stow gear and items that need to be protected from the elements and theft. There’s also an integrated flip-up bin with dividers to hold small items. Raptor has it all. 

Powertrain wise, the Raptor test truck came with a 3.5-liter high output EcoBoost  V-6 that’s rated at a robust 450-hp and 510 lb/ft of torque. Coupled to the 10-speed automatic transmission, it garners EPA mileage estimates of 15 city, 18-highway mpg with a 4.10 rear axle. 
Hit the ignition switch and the 3.0-inch dual exhaust tips put out a sweet rumble. Push hard on the accelerator and you’d think there’s a V8 under the hood. 

If this isn’t enough grunt for you, Ford just announced a super-hot, supercharged  Raptor R with a 5.2-liter V8 that puts out a whopping 700-hp and 640 lb/ft of torque. Raptor R pricing will start at $109,145 with orders being taken now with production to start this fall. 

Ride wise, you’d think a pickup of this caliber would be harsh. Not so. With coil springs fore and aft, heavy-duty shocks and shod with wide Goodrich 17-inch tires, Raptor has a surprisingly smooth ride. Open a window and you’ll hear the hum of the deep lugged and wide tires. But keep in mind they’re there for all weather, all terrain traction. Unfortunately, they also contribute to the low fuel economy along with the trucks’ 5,740-pound curb weight. 

With an extensive list of standard features, Raptors’ options list included Equipment Group 801A ($6,150); Power Tech Package ($1,995); Raptor Carbon Fiber trim ($995); 17-inch forged aluminum wheels ($1,895) and sprayed-in bed liner ($595) that took the base price of $64,145 to $77,470 with delivery. 

Raptor is covered by a 3 year/36K bumper-bumper; 5/60K powertrain warranties and 5/60K roadside assistance coverage. 
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Upon reading this, you’ll surely agree Raptor is a one of a kind pickup that can perform almost every deed you ask it to do, and then some.