Ford F-150 Raptor R proves tough yet smooth
The 2025 Ford F-150 Raptor R stands as the fastest production off-road pickup available, yet it remains practical for daily use.
Ford’s newest version of its high-performance off-roader continues a 15-year legacy, featuring a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 engine that generates 720 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque. The increase of 20 horsepower over the previous model isn’t immediately noticeable while driving. What does stand out is the truck’s acceleration.
Performance metrics confirm its speed
During testing, the 2025 Raptor R reached 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, improving on the last model’s 3.7-second time. That makes it faster than the discontinued Ram 1500 TRX, which required 3.9 seconds to hit the same speed despite its 702 hp. The quarter-mile run took 12.1 seconds at 112.1 mph, matching the 2023 Raptor R’s time but exceeding its final speed.
Braking presents challenges. The truck stops from 60 mph in 151 feet, a longer distance than the 2023 model’s 137 feet. Off-road tires and a curb weight of nearly 6,000 pounds contribute to the issue. Hard braking causes the front end to dip and the truck to bounce, making smooth stops difficult in traffic.
The figure-eight test revealed handling quirks due to the soft suspension and high ride height. Still, the Raptor R completed a lap in 27.6 seconds, outperforming both its predecessor and the Ram TRX.
Designed for rugged terrain, adapted for streets
Off-road, the truck excels. New Fox Dual Live Valve shocks smooth out rough terrain, and the suspension provides comfort on highways and city roads. Noise levels remain low for an off-roader, and steering feels responsive even on curves. A 360-degree camera assists with parking in tight spaces, a useful feature given the truck’s broad stance.
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Fuel efficiency suffers as a result. Real-world driving yields 10-12 mpg, close to the EPA’s combined estimate. Owners accept this trade-off for the truck’s capabilities.
For those seeking a vehicle that handles both daily commutes and extreme terrain, the Raptor R meets the need. It lacks the refinement of a luxury cruiser, and braking performance could improve, but as a high-speed off-road machine, nothing else compares.
The truck’s versatility extends beyond weekend adventures. It can serve as a daily driver, though fuel costs may become a concern. The interior is functional but doesn’t match the premium feel of some competitors. That isn’t the reason buyers choose this model.
They choose it for its ability to launch off dirt ramps, conquer rough trails, and remain manageable during routine tasks. Ford didn’t just create a faster Raptor—it made one that fits more easily into everyday life, even if it remains demanding in certain conditions.
When Ram reintroduces the TRX, it will face a formidable benchmark.
