Ford F-150 Raptor R 2026 Revealed: First Look, Powerful Engine, Smart Tech, MPG & Price Details

Published On: December 25, 2025
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The heavy-duty performance world just got a lot louder. Ford has officially pulled the wraps off the 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor R, and it is every bit the desert-conquering beast we expected. While the standard Raptor is already a legend, the “R” badge takes things to a level of raw power that few other vehicles can match. For 2026, Ford has balanced that brute strength with a much more sophisticated interior and smarter trail technology, making it the ultimate “do-it-all” truck for those who want zero compromises.

Better Latest Content: Overview Table

Here is a quick glance at the primary specifications for the 2026 Raptor R:

Feature2026 Ford F-150 Raptor R
Engine5.2L Supercharged V8 (Shelby GT500-derived)
Horsepower720+ hp
Torque640+ lb-ft
0–60 MPHApprox. 3.5 – 3.7 Seconds
SuspensionFOX Dual Live Valve Shocks (37-inch Tires)
Starting PriceApprox. $112,460

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Design & Style

The 2026 Raptor R doesn’t just drive differently; it looks the part. The most iconic feature is the massive power dome hood, which isn’t just for show—it’s necessary to clear the giant supercharger sitting on top of the V8. The front grille features the bold “FORD” block lettering with a unique “R” badge accented in Code Orange.

For 2026, Ford has introduced a more aggressive “Hammerhead” LED headlight design that flows into the widened fenders. The truck comes standard with 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, giving it a towering stance that provides 13.1 inches of ground clearance. New for this year are optional forged aluminum beadlock-capable wheels and a carbon-fiber trim package that adds a high-tech, race-ready look to the exterior.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Raptor R is its legendary 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine. Borrowed from the Shelby GT500 but retuned for truck duty, it pumps out over 720 horsepower. This allows the Raptor R to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in roughly 3.5 seconds, which is faster than many sports cars.

The performance isn’t just about straight-line speed. Ford has updated the 10-speed automatic transmission with a new calibration to handle the massive torque more efficiently. The active exhaust system also returns, allowing you to choose between a “Quiet” mode for the neighborhood and a “Baja” mode that lets the supercharged V8 scream at full volume.

Ride & Handling

While it’s a heavy truck, the Raptor R handles like a rally car. It uses FOX Dual Live Valve shocks, which can adjust their damping rates hundreds of times per second. This means the truck stays flat and composed on the highway but becomes incredibly plush when you are jumping dunes in the desert.

The five-link rear suspension features extra-long trailing arms to maintain axle position on rough terrain. For 2026, Ford has refined the Electric Power Steering, giving the driver more feedback from the trail while making it easier to maneuver the truck in tight parking lots.

Features & Tech

The cabin of the 2026 Raptor R is where luxury meets utility. You’ll find Recaro performance seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara, designed to hold you in place during high-speed off-roading.

The tech suite is top-notch:

  • 12-inch Digital Instrument Cluster: Features Raptor-specific graphics and off-road telemetry (pitch, roll, and tire pressure).
  • 12-inch SYNC 4 Touchscreen: Supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.
  • Trail Turn Assist: Can lock the inside rear wheel to help the truck make incredibly tight turns on narrow trails.
  • Pro Power Onboard: Provides 2.0-kW of exportable power in the bed to run tools or camping gear.

Mileage & Fuel Efficiency

As you might expect from a 700+ horsepower supercharged V8, fuel economy is not the Raptor R’s main focus. The EPA estimates for the 2026 model remain around 10 MPG city and 15 MPG highway. While it’s thirsty, the truck comes with a massive 36-gallon fuel tank, ensuring you still have plenty of range for long-distance desert runs or highway trips between gas stations.

Price & Variants

The Raptor R sits at the very top of the F-150 lineup. The starting price for the 2026 model is expected to be around $112,460.

  • Standard Raptor: Starts at approximately $79,005 (uses the 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6).
  • Raptor R: Comes as a “fully loaded” package, including the V8 engine, 37-inch tires, and most luxury interior features as standard equipment.

FAQs

1. Is the Raptor R faster than the RAM TRX? With 720 horsepower and a lighter aluminum body, the 2026 Raptor R is widely considered the faster and more agile truck compared to the discontinued TRX.

2. Can you tow with a Raptor R? Yes. While it’s built for off-roading, the Raptor R has a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 lbs, which is enough for most boats or car trailers.

3. What is the difference between the standard Raptor and the Raptor R? The main difference is the engine. The standard Raptor uses a V6 EcoBoost (450 hp), while the Raptor R uses the supercharged V8 (720 hp). The R also comes standard with 37-inch tires and unique styling.

Final Verdict

The 2026 Ford F-150 Raptor R is a glorious celebration of internal combustion. It is likely one of the last of its kind—a high-output, V8-powered monster that can handle almost any terrain on Earth. If you have the budget and a passion for performance, there is simply no other truck that offers this combination of speed, luxury, and “unbreakable” off-road capability.

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