2019 Ford F-150 Raptor: We Drove It So You Don't Have To (But You Should Want To)
By Brian Normile
November 20, 2018
Share
2019 Ford F-150 Raptor | Manufacturer image
Our colleagues over at PickupTrucks.com had the unfortunate task of taking the updated 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor through Ford’s Performance Racing School in Utah — such are the hardships that automotive journalists face. (This is sarcastic, if you can’t tell.)
Since 2017, Ford has included the one-day course for free if you buy a new Raptor, although travel and lodging are on your own dime. The course includes instruction over various terrain and speeds, as well — everything from slow rock crawling to a high-speed off-road course.
The 2019 Raptor features three key updates: optional Recaro seats, Ford’s new Trail Control system and updated, adjustable Fox Racing Live Valve shocks that adjust on the fly to changing terrain conditions. Four-wheel drive is standard, obviously.
The seats impressed us, holding everyone in place during various off-road maneuvers. A word of caution, however: They lack adjustable bolsters and may not fit every body type. That’s definitely something to try before you buy.
Trail Control impressed us, too, working at up to 20 mph in the truck’s 4-High setting and keeping things moving while we crawled over tough obstacles in 4-Low. The new Fox shocks, meanwhile, are adjustable to the driver’s wishes, but they also adapt from constant driving feedback to further adjust to driving style.
Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.
Road Test Editor
Brian Normile
Road Test Editor Brian Normile joined the automotive industry and Cars.com in 2013, and he became part of the Editorial staff in 2014. Brian spent his childhood devouring every car magazine he got his hands on — not literally, eventually — and now reviews and tests vehicles to help consumers make informed choices. Someday, Brian hopes to learn what to do with his hands when he’s reviewing a car on camera. He would daily-drive an Alfa Romeo 4C if he could.