A prototype for the 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor
has been filmed up close during testing. With the 702hp Hellcat-powered RAM
1500 TRX revealed today, the new F-150 Raptor will face new competition when it
hits the market. This has sparked some hopes that Ford could return to a big V8
engine for the Raptor. In fact, the F-150 Gen 4 forum that filmed this clip
asserts this prototype may be rocking a V8 as evidenced by its throaty sound.
As much as we would love to see Ford bring
back the V8 for the F-150 Raptor, we’re not holding our breath. In fact, we
think it is more likely that a tweaked version of the outgoing model’s
twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine will be used, perhaps modified to
beyond the current 450 hp and 691 Nm. It seems highly unlikely the
new Raptor will have anywhere near the 702 hp of the RAM Rebel 1500 TRX.
Beyond its engine, you’ll notice this
prototype is rocking camouflage across the front and rear, two areas where its
design will be significantly different than the old model. As such, there will
be a new front grille flanked by distinctive headlights. There will also be a
skid plate and recovery hooks. Elsewhere, Ford has equipped the tester with
flared wheel arches both at the front and the rear. Speaking of the rear, the
tailgate will be redesigned and there will also be new taillights.
