Twin-Turbo V6 powers latest Raptor
Its’ a gamble all right, but Ford is betting that impressive power and torque figures will convince Raptor- buyers in the US that a twin-turbo V6 is a better all-round bet than a normally-aspirated V8. Equipped with the all-new 3.5-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, the all-new 2017 F-150 Raptor churns out 335kWs ( 450hp) of peak power and a whopping 691Nm ( 510 lb.-ft.) of torque. Mated to an all-new Ford-built 10-speed transmission and exclusive transfer case – and managed by a six-mode Terrain Management System – the new Raptor makes good on its promise to deliver an exhilarating off-road performance truck and even more bragging rights for under $ 69,807 ( $ US50,000). “Raptor was designed to be a no-compromise, off-road performance machine,” said Matt Tranter, Ford Performance engineering supervisor.“That is why we made the switch from the cast-iron V8 to the aluminium block, high-output GTDI V6 EcoBoost engine.” Using the same steel ladder frame and aluminium alloy body introduced with some fanfare last year the 2017 Raptor is up to 226kgs lighter than the 2014 model. And combined with the new EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission, the 2017 Raptor delivers a 23 percent improvement in EPArated combined fuel economy compared with the previous generation Raptor. The new Raptor’s transfer case and six-mode Terrain Management System includes a Baja Mode, which automatically engages a mechanically locked 4X4 high, and optimizes throttle response, shifting and boost control to provide improved off-road capability. The new second-generation 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 features a new twin direct and port-fuel injection strategy, stronger and lighter crank and valve train components, a redesigned twin-turbocharger system with electronic waste gate, and a redesigned valve train and variable-displacement oil pump. “It hammers quick and keeps delivering torque for a more brawny feel than its V8 predecessor,” said Al Cockerill, Raptor’s powertrain development engineer. The new 10-speed automatic transmission, standard on the 2017 Raptor, features Auto Start-Stop and is the first gearbox from Ford not to employ cast-iron components.