2019 Ford F-150 Raptor debuts with better suspension and Trail Control System

Aimed at an end of the year launch, Ford gives their popular Raptor truck a little nip and tuck for the new model year. The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor gets some updates that make it a better off-roader than the outgoing version.

Let’s start with the suspension because that’s where the major changes reside. Ford had already worked on it in 2017 by fitting larger diameter Fox shocks. Now for the 2019 version, a “Live Valve Technology” debuts that can vary compression rates to adjust the damping according to the terrain the truck is heading to. There are a bunch of sensors on the body and suspension which monitor the conditions and they change the character of the suspension according to that. When the rider catches some air during a high speed run, the suspension knows it and preps itself up to ensure a smoother landing.

The 2019 F-150 Raptor is also fitted with what’s called a Trail Control System, which works in the same way a Cruise Control system works but off the road. The system can be enabled at speeds from 1.6 to 32 kph so that the vehicle holds on to a constant speed and moves forward by powering and braking individual wheels as and when necessary.

The 2019 F-150 Raptor can be customized using three body shades(Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue, and Agate Black) and two colours for the massive Ford moniker at the back. Inside, the cabin of the Raptor gets new Recaro seats as a part of the optional interior accent package. The seats can be power adjusted, heated and cooled.

The power still comes from the 450 hp 3.5-litre biturbo V6 which also churns out 692 Nm of torque. A 10-speed automatic gearbox with high-low transfer case along with a four-wheel drive system lays down the power to the tarmac, or gravel, or anything you choose to drive on.

The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor should arrive in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other GCC countries sometime next year.

Keep track of the latest prices and updates in the Ford F-150 Raptor buyer guide.