New Ford Raptor tech works like off-road cruise control

Ford introduced the next version of its high-performance, off-road F-150 Raptor to journalists on Tuesday, May, 23 and the pickup will come in with some impressive new technology and new features. The Ranger Raptor also gets Fox internal bypass shocks, but they're not to the same spec as the F-150's units.

"By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel", said Hermann Salenbauch, global director of Ford Performance vehicle programs.

The new trail control in the Ford F-150 Raptor improves the pick-up trucks low-speed performance off-road.

These could make the 2019 Raptor slightly more capable, but they will nearly certainly make the high performance F-150 more comfortable in every driving situation while also making the truck more controllable on rough surfaces.

The 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor follows a minor refresh for the 2018 Ford F-150 line, all in anticipation of an all-new 2019 Ram 1500 due in showrooms in the next few weeks, and an all-new 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra coming later in the year. And the automaker intend to enhance that off-road credibility even more with the updated 2019 model.

Well, their job's now been made even harder as Ford has introduced a round of updates on the Raptor for the 2019 model year. The automaker revealed the Ranger Raptor at an event in Thailand, that will feature a 2.0-liter bi-turbo diesel engine with a 10-speed transmission. According to Salenbauch, "Not many trucks need sensors to detect when you are midair".

Low-speed performance off-road is also improved. Trail Control can be activated at speeds from 1 miles per hour up to 20 miles per hour depending on driveline position.

This allows the driver to concentrate exclusively on wheel placement and navigating the vehicle via the steering, while he/she can override the system at any time using the pedals.

Inside the new Raptor Recaros seats with Alcantara inserts and Ford GT-inspired Light Speed stitching will hold the driver and passenger in place while traversing rough terrain.

The new Ford F-150 Raptor pickup goes on sale later this year.

Other changes include more color options, like Ford Performance Blue and Agate Black and new beadlock wheels. And to keep you in your seat when navigating the kind of terrain the Raptor is created to handle there are also some all-new Recaro seats.