Ford’s F-150 Raptor has always been a standout in the competitive pickup truck market for its off-road capabilities and rugged performance. The 2024 F-150 Raptor R and Tremor models are the latest additions from Ford, aiming to elevate the off-road experience with more power, advanced technology, and luxury features. These new trucks have been dubbed the ultimate “Pavement Princesses,” but how do they stack up in real-world conditions? Let’s delve into the details of these high-performance vehicles to see if they can truly deliver on their promises.
The Ford F-150 has consistently been America’s top-selling truck for over four decades, maintaining its status as the best-selling vehicle in the country for the majority of that time. Despite its long-standing success, Ford continues to innovate, and the 2024 F-150 reflects this commitment with a range of updates and improvements.
As an enthusiast of off-road adventures, I have experienced various racing events and challenges, from desert races with purpose-built buggies to navigational rallies with stock vehicles. When Ford offered me the opportunity to test drive the 2024 Ford F-150 in Tremor and Raptor R trims, I eagerly accepted. The prospect of exploring the latest off-road capabilities of these trucks was exciting, to say the least.
The 2024 F-150 lineup offers a variety of trims, including XL, STX, XLT, Tremor, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Raptor, catering to different preferences and needs. With six engine options, three bed lengths, three cab configurations, and the choice of two- or four-wheel drive, the customization possibilities are extensive. You can tailor the F-150 to suit your specific requirements and preferences, ensuring that you find the perfect configuration for your lifestyle.
Heading out into the wilderness in the 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor provides a thrilling experience, showcasing the truck’s capabilities on challenging terrain. The Tremor model is designed to tackle tight trails and rough terrain with ease, offering a blend of performance and agility that is sure to impress off-road enthusiasts.Heading out of the desert on a narrow trail in the 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor can be quite the adventure. The Tremor and Raptor trims are specifically available with the four-door SuperCrew cab and a short 5-and-a-half foot bed, offering ample interior space and increased agility in off-road conditions. Despite some minor exterior design updates for 2024, the F-150 remains rugged and aesthetically pleasing, equipped with LED lighting and various appearance features.
The Tremor trim, although not as extreme as the Raptor models, still packs enough power for everyday use. This year, it receives eye-catching orange accents, an optional modular bumper for accessories like a winch or light bar, and the new Professional Power Tailgate. The standard 5.0-liter V8 engine delivers 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque with a fuel efficiency rating of 19 miles per gallon combined. Alternatively, buyers can opt for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, providing 500 pound-feet of torque and the same fuel economy. Unfortunately, the hybrid 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is not available for the Tremor trim, which outputs 430 horsepower, 570 pound-feet of torque, and achieves 23 miles per gallon combined.
The F-150 Tremor showcases distinctive orange accents, enhancing its overall look. Equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Tremor offers two- or four-wheel drive capabilities and a 4-Auto mode for improved traction on slippery surfaces. While the transmission performs admirably on the road, providing responsive gear changes, the ride quality may feel slightly bouncy when the truck is empty. Transitioning to off-road terrain, the Tremor’s off-road suspension excels, effortlessly handling obstacles like G-outs and maintaining stability on uneven surfaces.
With skid plates on critical components and impressive ground clearance, the Tremor ensures protection and clearance in challenging off-road situations. The truck’s off-road tuned suspension proves its worth on rocky terrain, delivering a comfortable and controlled ride at slower speeds. While the Tremor may not be a speed demon, its off-road capabilities shine through, making it a reliable companion for off-the-beaten-path adventures.Ford’s Tremor and Raptor trims offer advanced off-road features to enhance the driving experience. One of these features is the Saunter Flip Assist, which helps in maneuvering the truck in tight spaces by braking the inner rear wheel, allowing for tighter turns on narrow trails. Additionally, the Saunter One Pedal Drive feature eliminates the need for left-foot braking during rock crawling, providing the right amount of braking force when the throttle is released. The Saunter Control feature acts as an off-road cruise control, maintaining a steady pace for better tire placement.
Moreover, the 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor is equipped with the optional Pro Power Onboard system, which provides up to 2 kW of power directly from the truck’s tailgate. This feature is especially useful for vehicles with the PowerBoost hybrid engine, offering 2.4 kW of standard power or the option to upgrade to a 7.2 kW system for heavy-duty equipment use for up to 32 hours.
In the realm of tailgate innovations, Ford introduces the Pro Access tailgate, offering a 20/60/20 split design for added convenience. This tailgate can be lowered like a traditional one, with the 60% portion functioning as a swing gate that can open at various angles up to 100 degrees, allowing for easy access to the truck bed even when a trailer is attached.
Additionally, the 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R comes standard with robust 37-inch tires, providing enhanced off-road capability and traction in challenging terrains. These tires are designed to withstand rough impacts and provide a stable and reliable driving experience. With these features and enhancements, Ford’s lineup of trucks continues to set new standards in off-road performance and versatility.The Ford F-150 Raptor R is an impressive truck that boasts a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 engine with 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse is not for the faint of heart, and drivers are encouraged to attend Ford’s Raptor Assault driving school in Utah to fully grasp its capabilities. However, be prepared to spend a lot on gas as the truck only gets 12 mpg combined.
Equipped with 37-inch tires, the Raptor R offers 13 inches of rear travel, 14 inches in the front, and 13 inches of ground clearance. The 2024 model has upgraded Fox Live Valve shocks with twin-valve variable rebound control, reducing bucking at high speeds and improving overall handling.
Taking the Raptor R off-road is an exhilarating experience, as demonstrated in Johnson Valley, California. Activating Baja mode unleashes the truck’s full potential, allowing drivers to reach high speeds and navigate challenging terrain with ease. Whether tackling dirt roads or sandy dunes, the Raptor R delivers a thrilling and capable performance.
While the Raptor R excels in off-road environments, it also offers fun on paved surfaces. The truck’s two-wheel drive mode allows for controlled drifting, while four-wheel drive ensures stability and speed through corners. No matter the setting, the Raptor R impresses with its power, agility, and versatility.Exploring the rugged terrain, I navigate the dune with caution, aware of the rocky graveyard on the opposite side. Maneuvering left, I side-hill across the face before descending back down to the base. With a bit more speed, I approach the dune again, narrowly avoiding a bush and managing to climb a little higher. Despite the intimidating appearance of the dune, the Raptor R effortlessly conquers it, showcasing its power and agility.
As we make our way back to Ford HQ, I have the opportunity to go airborne. Following instructions, I make my first attempt at 60 miles per hour, lifting all four wheels off the ground briefly. The sheer weight of the 6,000-pound truck makes defying gravity a challenge. Ignoring caution the second time, I hit the jump at around 75 miles per hour, soaring through the air and landing smoothly with the help of the shock-absorbing system. The Raptor R’s performance in mid-air surpasses any previous experiences I’ve had with other vehicles.
The Tremor and Raptor trims boast luxurious interiors, featuring 10-way power-adjustable heated seats, adjustable pedals, a 12-inch infotainment screen with SYNC 4, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional features in the Raptor R include Recaro seats, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, and ambient lighting. Despite the off-road focus of these models, they still offer impressive towing and payload capacities, with the 2024 F-150 capable of towing up to 13,500 pounds and hauling 2,445 pounds in the bed. The Tremor can tow 10,200 pounds, while the Raptor R lags slightly behind at 8,700 pounds.
Both trims come equipped with the Professional Trailer Hitch Assist feature, which autonomously positions the hitch under the coupler, making trailer hitching a breeze. The Professional Trailer Backup Assist simplifies the process of reversing a trailer, allowing users to control the direction of the trailer with a knob instead of steering the wheel. These advanced features make towing and maneuvering trailers much easier for beginners and experienced drivers alike.
Standard across all trims for 2024 is a 12-inch infotainment screen, providing drivers with easy access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. This user-friendly interface enhances the driving experience and ensures that essential information is readily available at all times.
Innovations in Ford’s 2024 F-150 Raptor R and Tremor Models
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Ford has introduced enhancements to BlueCruise in their 2024 F-150 models, providing a semi-autonomous highway driving feature. This technology allows the vehicle to maintain speed behind another car and stay centered in the lane on major highways without driver input. Using a camera to monitor eye movements, the system alerts the driver through visual and audible cues if attention is diverted.
<p dir="ltr">New for 2024 is the addition of lane change assist. When driving hands-free, simply activating the turn signal prompts the truck to change lanes safely. While the system errs on the side of caution, it ensures a smooth transition and prevents being stuck behind slower vehicles. Additionally, a lane repositioning feature subtly adjusts the truck within the lane when larger vehicles encroach, providing a sense of security and space.</p>
<p dir="ltr">BlueCruise is now available as a subscription service, priced at $2,100 for the first three years with an initial F-150 purchase. Customers opting for a trial period can enjoy three months for free and then choose to renew at $800 per year or $75 per month.</p>Luxury Features in Ford’s 2024 F-150 Models
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While the base model of the 2024 Ford F-150 XL starts at around $39,000, the Tremor and Raptor R models offer a more premium experience. The Tremor, priced at $66,145, can reach up to $80,000 with added features such as an onboard generator, towing package, BlueCruise, heated and cooled seats, and a powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine.
<p dir="ltr">For those seeking ultimate luxury and performance, the Raptor R begins at $112,000, with additional options easily pushing the price past the $150,000 mark. These models cater to serious drivers looking for cutting-edge technology and premium features in their trucks.</p>When you consider the vast array of options available, it’s easy to see why the 2024 F-150 lineup is so popular. From the versatile Tremor to the adrenaline-pumping Raptor R, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vehicle with plenty of capabilities or a high-performance truck that can handle any challenge, Ford has you covered.
The 2024 F-150 Tremor is the perfect choice for families who want a reliable and versatile vehicle. With its wide range of capabilities, it’s ideal for those who enjoy low-key adventures and need a vehicle that can handle whatever comes their way. Whether you’re heading to the campsite or just cruising around town, the Tremor is a great option.
On the other hand, the 2024 F-150 Raptor R is designed for adrenaline junkies who want to push the limits. With its powerful engine and rugged design, this truck is perfect for those who crave excitement and adventure. Whether you’re hitting the trails or tackling tough terrain, the Raptor R is up for the challenge.
the 2024 F-150 lineup offers something for everyone. From the versatile Tremor to the high-performance Raptor R, there’s a vehicle to suit every need and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a reliable family vehicle or a thrilling off-road machine, Ford has the perfect option for you. Choose the 2024 F-150 and experience the best of both worlds.
