2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 30, 2009

3:56 min

At first glance, Ford�s new 2010 F-150 SVT Raptor looks like nothing more than a big pickup with splashy paint and a lift kit. That�s partly true - But the Raptor isn�t just a show piece; it�s a seriously tough truck built by Ford�s Special Vehicle Team and it has the goods to back up the imposing look. SVT engineers start with a standard issue F-150 then add suspension upgrades like all-new cast aluminum lower control arms, a larger rear axle and Fox racing Shox. Huge BFGoodrich tires and a thick skid plate add an imposing stance, The track is 7 inches wider than a standard F-150. That wider track allows about 12 inches of suspension travel out back and more than 11 inches up front which is exactly what makes the Raptor so good a soaking up deep desert ruts. Powering this F-150 Raptor over sand dunes and up hills is Ford�s 5.4 liter V8. Here, the V8 is good for 310 hp but Ford knows Raptor buyers will want more so a 400-hp 6.2 liter V8 will soon be an option. The exhaust system has been reworked and it delivers exactly the right sound although there�s no horsepower gain. Clearly, the SVT Raptor dominates when it comes to kicking up a serious dust cloud - but it�s not just a one trick pony� Despite the amazing balance of on-road comfort and off-road dominance, the SVT Raptor has one notable flaw� Minor annoyances aside, the Raptor is the real deal and can accomplish feats no other street legal truck can. Abuse like this would destroy a normal pickup. Even the Raptor�s look is unlike any factory built truck we�ve ever seen. The flared fenders, blacked out 17 inch aluminum wheels, functional body vents, and front end treatment are unique to the Raptor. Thankfully, you don�t have to get the Tonka truck like mud graphic that covers the rear � that�s optional. The cabin has a few upgrades as well � colored seat inserts are optional and all Raptors get a unique thicker steering wheel, SVT gauges plus a revised center console to accommodate auxiliary switches and buttons for off-road mode and hill descent control. It may be tempting to dismiss SVT�s latest effort as nothing more than pickup truck with some fancy paint and big tires. But that couldn�t be farther from the truth � the 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is a serious off-roader with the look, the hardware and the sheer will to crush anything that gets in its way.