2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R Review: The Apex Predator of Trucks

The Ford F-150 Raptor has long been the benchmark for high-performance off-road trucks, and for 2024, the Raptor R takes things to another level. It brings back what many enthusiasts have been asking for—a supercharged V8 under the hood—while retaining the Raptor’s signature combination of aggressive styling, serious off-road capability, and modern technology.  

I spent time with this truck in a mix of environments, from the packed streets of downtown Dallas to the winding country roads outside the city, putting it through the paces both as a daily driver and as an off-road powerhouse. The verdict? It’s an absolute beast—but one with a price tag that makes it a tough sell for all but the most dedicated buyers.  

Exterior: Raptor on Steroids

The 2024 F-150 Raptor R doesn’t just look aggressive—it is aggressive. Ford takes the standard F-150 and transforms it into something wider, taller, and tougher, reinforcing the truck’s dominance both on and off the road. The Oxford White exterior on my test model, paired with the bold Raptor R graphics, makes for a unique and striking look. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a Raptor in this spec before, and it definitely turns heads.  

The front end is all business, featuring a massive Raptor-specific performance bumper, a blacked-out grille with the bold FORD lettering, and integrated Rigid LED fog lamps that add function to the form. The truck’s dual exhaust system with dual tailpipes makes sure that supercharged V8 doesn’t just perform—it sounds the part too. Ford has also equipped it with cast aluminum running boards and wheel lip moldings, which help balance its aggressive stance with practical usability.  

This truck is big. With its 145-inch wheelbase and widened track, maneuvering through tight city streets requires some patience, but out on the open road—or better yet, off the pavement—it feels right at home.  

Interior: Comfort Meets Capability

Ford has done a solid job making the Raptor R’s interior a place where you actually want to spend time. The Recaro leather seats are a standout feature, offering a great balance of comfort and support. They’re fully adjustable, making it easy to find a good driving position, whether you’re commuting or tackling rough terrain. The heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel adds another layer of comfort, and I appreciated the head-up display, which keeps key driving info right in my line of sight.  

The 12-inch productivity screen is easy to use and works well with Sync 4, offering solid connectivity without being overly complicated. The B&O Unleashed sound system with 14 speakers is a nice touch—it’s loud and clear, whether you’re blasting music or listening to podcasts on long drives. Rear seat passengers won’t feel like an afterthought either, thanks to the heated second-row seats and plenty of legroom. There’s no doubt this truck can comfortably haul a full load of passengers without sacrificing interior space.  

Performance: A V8 Returns to the Raptor

The biggest talking point with the Raptor R is, without a doubt, the 5.2-liter supercharged V8, the same engine found in the Shelby GT500. This beast pumps out 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque, sending power through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The result? A truck that’s not just fast for its size—it’s fast, period.  

On the road, the Raptor R delivers surprisingly smooth acceleration, thanks to the well-tuned transmission. The exhaust note is aggressive without being overbearing in daily driving, though it absolutely lets loose when you put your foot down.  

Fuel economy? Well… you don’t buy a truck like this expecting great mileage. With an EPA rating of 10 mpg city / 15 mpg highway / 12 mpg combined, the 36-gallon fuel tank is a necessity rather than a luxury. But let’s be real—if you’re considering a supercharged V8 truck, fuel economy probably isn’t a deal-breaker.  

For those wondering about towing, the Raptor R is rated to pull up to 8,200 pounds, with a payload capacity of around 1,800 pounds. While it’s not designed to be a workhorse like an F-250, it can certainly handle weekend toys like boats, trailers, or off-road rigs.  

Off-Road Capability: Built for the Wild

If the standard Raptor is an off-road beast, the Raptor R is the apex predator. Ford equips it with Fox Live Valve shocks, which actively adjust to the terrain, making it surprisingly smooth over rough trails. The 5-link rear suspension keeps the truck planted, even when hitting bumps at speed, while the skid plates provide peace of mind when tackling rocky terrain.  

The truck’s 17-inch forged aluminum beadlock wheels and massive all-terrain tires give it plenty of grip, and features like Trail Control (essentially off-road cruise control) make it easier to navigate tough conditions without constantly modulating the throttle. Whether you’re bombing across desert dunes or crawling over rocky terrain, the Raptor R is more than up for the challenge.  

Bed and Utility: Still an F-150 at Heart

Despite all the performance-focused upgrades, Ford hasn’t forgotten that this is still a truck. The Raptor R includes the Bed Utility Package, making it easy to secure cargo and use the bed efficiently. Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure or just loading up supplies, the rugged bed design ensures it remains practical beyond its off-road focus.  

Pricing: The Price of Power

Now, let’s talk numbers. The base MSRP for the Raptor R is $77,980, but once you tack on options, the total cost of my test truck hit $113,640. That’s a serious price jump, putting it well beyond the cost of a standard Raptor and deep into luxury truck territory.  

For that price, you’re getting one of the most capable, high-performance trucks on the market, but it’s still a tough pill to swallow. Even if I had the money, I’m not sure I could justify spending six figures on a truck like this—especially when the standard Raptor already delivers a ton of capability at a lower cost.  

Final Verdict: Is the Raptor R Worth It?

The 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R is an incredible machine. It brings back the V8 power enthusiasts have been asking for, pairs it with a well-tuned off-road suspension, and wraps it in an aggressive, well-equipped package. It’s comfortable enough to drive daily, capable enough to tackle serious trails, and powerful enough to put a smile on your face every time you hit the gas.  

But at over $113K, it’s also a luxury performance truck that sits in a very specific niche. If you’re someone who demands the absolute best in off-road capability, loves the sound of a supercharged V8, and doesn’t mind dropping six figures on a pickup, the Raptor R is as good as it gets. For everyone else? The standard Raptor might be the smarter buy.  

Either way, there’s no denying that this truck is an absolute beast.