Auto Trends

ford-f-150-svt-raptor-r-by-svt-and-ford-racing_25, originally uploaded by kevinyangy

Back in November we caught a glimpse of the 2010 Ford SVT Raptor, which was more than enough to leave us salivating. But with the collapse of the auto industry, we couldn’t be sure exactly what would be the future of this beast. Well, if you like your trucks fast, gas guzzling, and powerful, this high performance version of the Ford F-150 will be sure to please, and Ford has at long last released its price list for all its goodies…

Engine Packages
The upgrade package begins at a base price of $38,995, featuring a moderate 5.4 liter Triton V-8 (3-valve), offering 320 horsepower, and an even more impressive 390 lb-ft of torque. While the more performance oriented 6.2 liter will be the Raptor’s star player under the hood, the Triton has received some nice upgrades, such as the new open valve fuel injection strategy which will give the new small block a little extra grunt during high rpm operation.

The 6.2 liter, V-8 “Boss” engine will be the ultimate upgrade for the Raptor, featuring a staunch 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The Boss Package will go for the upgraded price of $41,995. Whichever engine you choose, you can be sure that it was designed by SVT to handle some of the most intense off road paths you can throw at it.

Both engines were put to the similar rigors as the Baja 1000 during their final tuning process. The SVT headquarters were transferred over to a 62 mile course in Borrego Springs, California to aid in these simulations. The end process was a lean and mean truck capable of handling the extremes of nature, as well as the bumper to bumper grind on the open highway.

Suspension and Interior Upgrades
A high performance truck takes a lot more than just a big engine to get through some difficult terrain, so SVT did not forget to upgrade the suspension and tires with an ultra wide stance, internal pass dampeners (designed by Fox Racing Shox), and a set of 35-inch BF Goodrich All Terrain TA/KO 315/70-17 tires.

For those less into the raw organics of a offroad vehicle and more into technological advancement, will enjoy its electronic locking differential, extreme “off-road” mode, and auxiliary switch board. To aid in towing, the Raptor also will be fitted with Trailer Sway Control, Hill Decent Control, and an integrated trailer brake control.

A handful of visual upgrades can be added to the Raptor package, such as some nifty exterior graphics for $1,075. On the interior front, a slick pair of 10-way adjustable leather seats will cost you a hefty chunk of change ($1,995). To add a little off road sports appeal, SVT offers orange mesh trim and matching orange seat inserts for the nominal charge of $395.

The Ford F-150 SVT Raptor may not be for everybody, but if you like your trucks rough and rowdy, these may be one of the last of their kind… that is if those Treehuggers have anything to say about it!