In the dim light of twilight, the road stretches out like an ominous path shrouded in uncertainty. Each turn echoed with the whispers of what might lie ahead, heartbeats synced with the pulsing darkness. We’re on the hunt for a vehicle that could tame both the chaos of daily life and the sinister allure of the unknown. Did we find it? I’d say so.
Sliding into the driver’s seat of the 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor is an experience like none other. This beast wasn’t just metal and machinery; it was a promise of power and escape, ready to navigate the shadows that lingered just beyond the headlights. The engine growling to life, a haunting symphony of strength and potential, promising excitement only it could deliver. This truck was ready to unleash the thrill of the unknown, transforming mundane errands into heart-pounding adventures in the dark. The night was calling, and we were ready to answer.
The Thrill of Height
One of the first things that took my breath away was the astonishing height of the F-150 Raptor. I’ve experienced my fair share of SUVs, but this truck doesn’t just sit high—it makes you feel like you’re soaring through the air. A remarkable kind of power comes from being elevated above the road, an exhilarating sensation that’s almost like flying.
With every turn on the highway or every challenge on a rugged trail, I felt an overwhelming sense of control and unshackled freedom. One of my most exhilarating moments was when I pulled up alongside another truck and looked DOWN at it. The sheer presence of this beast is awe-inspiring; it instills a fierce sense of intimidation. Especially when a 5’2″ 1/2 woman hops out of it, literally. There also aren’t a whole lot of graceful mounts or dismounts in this truck, short kings & queens!
Not Built for Tight Turns (But That’s Okay)
Now, if you crave the thrill of whipping through those tight urban corners, the Raptor may not be your ideal partner. This magnificent beast, tipping the scales at over 6,000 pounds and boasting a commanding stance, isn’t built for swift manoeuvres in the bustling city. But honestly, I didn’t mind one bit. There likely isn’t a curb this beast can’t tackle, so I wouldn’t be too worried.
When you’re behind the wheel of something this colossal and powerful, you embrace the luxury of time. And when you escape into the wild or conquer rugged off-road trails, that raw power bursts forth, transforming the seemingly sluggish city driving into a mere prelude to an exhilarating adventure. Smaller parking lots may strike as a slight challenge if you are new to this size vehicle, through there are ample driver assist options in place to help take the stress out of the tight spots.
Ford F-150 Raptor Performance: Power Meets Practicality
Let’s dive deep into the heart of the beast. The 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor roars to life with a stunning 450-hp twin-turbo V-6 engine, but for the true adrenaline seekers, there’s the exhilarating Raptor R, flaunting an awe-inspiring 720-hp supercharged V-8. Now, as a mom, do I truly need all 720 horsepower just to whisk the kids off to their next soccer match? Probably not. But would I say no to it? Not on your life! The sheer joy of driving this powerhouse is intoxicating. With its 10-speed automatic transmission gliding through every gear, it orchestrates a symphony of smoothness whether you’re cruising on pavement or conquering untamed dirt roads.
The F-150 Raptor, while a magnificent titan, surprises you with its grace. Thanks to its remarkable Fox Live Valve suspension system and the option of colossal 37-inch tires, it fosters an experience that’s both plush and composed, even as it tackles the roughest terrain. You can truly soar over gravel paths and leapt onto highway ramps, never once feeling a jolt.
It’s the kind of suspension that leaves you questioning reality, thinking, “Is this even real?” For anyone daydreaming of family camping trips or spontaneous weekend escapades, that seamless ride transforms the journey into an unforgettable adventure. This would be the perfect vehicle for a more deep woods camping trip, somewhere up a logging road like Weaver Lake B.C., this gives you the ability to adventure with ease.
While the Raptor’s towing capacity—an impressive 8,700 pounds for the R model—may fall slightly short compared to some other formidable F-150s, it’s still more than sufficient to meet the everyday demands of the average family. Picture the thrill of hitching up your cozy camper for a spontaneous weekend adventure, where memories are made under the stars. Or envision the satisfaction of hauling a trailer brimming with yard equipment, transforming outdoor spaces into your personal oasis, this would have been perfect for all the stuff we pulled out of my garden this past Spring. This truck isn’t just a machine; it’s a reliable companion, ready to support your life’s journey, no matter where it leads.
Fuel Economy: Well, It’s a Raptor, what can we say?
Let’s get real for a moment—fuel economy is probably the last thing that crosses your mind when you set your sights on a beast like this. It isn’t a hybrid, and far from electric. The F-150 Raptor isn’t just sipping fuel delicately like some eco-friendly hybrid; it’s roaring to life with an unrestrained hunger. With the V-6 model, you’re looking at roughly 14 mpg in the city and 18 on the highway, while the F-150 Raptor R’s ferocious supercharged V-8 plunges to a mere 10 mpg in the urban jungle.
But let’s face it, this truck is not disguised as something it’s not. This is a vehicle burning with the desire for power, off-road prowess, and adrenaline-fueled exhilaration. If you’re in it for the thrill, the fuel economy is simply part of the wild adventure that awaits you.
For the “just in case” scenarios… you want to be ready
If there’s ever a “Purge” scenario, the 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor would be the ultimate survival machine. First off, let’s talk about its size. In a world where chaos reigns and you need to fend off lawless mobs or navigate debris-strewn streets, you’ll want the Raptor’s towering height and massive frame on your side. At nearly 81 inches tall and riding on 37-inch tires, this beast gives you the kind of road (or off-road) dominance that makes you feel like nothing can touch you. Plus, when things get a little dicey, the Raptor’s 13 inches of ground clearance means you can go off-grid, leaving the chaos behind while everyone else is stuck in traffic and chaos.
Of course, let’s not forget that 720-hp V-8 option in the Raptor. If you’re being chased down by a band of nefarious villains, that supercharged engine will get you from 0 to 60 in about 3.5 seconds—faster than most sports cars, let alone your average getaway vehicle. Not only will you escape the madness, but you’ll look cool doing it just like we did. And with the FOX Dual-Live Valve shocks keeping things smooth over any terrain, you can dodge barricades, potholes, and even a few stray Molotov cocktails without losing sight of your… ahem, neighbors… targets… whatever they might be at the time.
Finally, let’s talk about the practical stuff. The Raptor’s cabin is a fortress on wheels, with its sturdy SuperCrew body and top-tier safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist (because who has time to worry about blind spots in an apocalyptic scenario? Not these girls!). And if you need to power up some last-minute survival gear, that 2.0-kW mobile generator in the cargo bed will keep your devices charged while you’re plotting your next escape route or plan of attack. If there’s one vehicle that’ll keep you safe, stylish, and fully prepared for any Purge-style mayhem, it’s the 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R.
Safety First
Safety is an ever-present concern for everyone, a fundamental priority through day-to-day work life, family life, and more. Ford understands this deeply and has loaded the F-150 Raptor with an impressive array of advanced safety features that offer peace of mind on every journey, even the probably won’t happen ones.
With standard forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist, you can embrace the open road knowing that you and your loved ones are protected. You all know that when it comes to lane-assist features, they are far from my favourite and often far too sensitive in most vehicles. I found with the F-150 Raptor, the precision of the driver-assist features left very little to be annoyed with.
When you incorporate Ford’s dynamic Trail Control and Trail 1-Pedal Drive, you find a vehicle that not only conquers the toughest trails but also handles everyday driving with grace. This is more than just a car; it’s a steadfast companion in every adventure, designed to shield your most cherished moments.
The 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor may not be the quintessential truck for every mom, but it is for this mom! The exhilarating power, the commanding presence—it’s hard to resist the allure, and the truck mentality that comes with it. If you’re a mom who revels in the thrill of the open road, who craves the heights of a robust, muscular vehicle, and who occasionally yearns to conquer the rugged outdoors, then the Raptor simply begs to be in your driveway.
With Canadian pricing starting at around $112,572 the F-150 Raptor, with the Raptor R starting at $178,000, they are a significant investment, but the versatility of its features, towing capacity and drive options leans towards having 3 trucks in 1, so there will be very little you won’t be able to accomplish with this haunting beast in your driveway.
Personally, the F-150 Raptor strikes me as more than just a vehicle; it embodies the essence of joy-filled journeys. Picture yourself behind the wheel, feeling the rush as you tackle errands or embark on exhilarating family escapades. It’s a magnificent beast, yes, but one that beats with an undeniable heart, ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.
