I’m not a truck owner myself — my daily ride is my Audi Q6 compact SUV or A3 hatchback. As an automotive journalist, I get to test drive new vehicles all the time.
I got behind the wheel of a 2024 F-150 Raptor finished in deep midnight, antimatter blue metallic with a pearlescent finish at the Oregon International Auto Show. It felt large since the seating was so high up, but it was actually quite nimble.
The 2024 F-150 Raptor starts at $77,980, and the model I tested was listed at $83,665 with its optional upgrades. I enjoyed it a lot, even for city driving — although it would be even better for people who live near wider roads, farms, and work zones.
Interior and aesthetics
The Raptor offers a comfortable ride for such a large vehicle. The exterior features cast-aluminum running boards that make it easy for a short person like me to jump in.
From the outside, the front facia grill has an aggressive look embedded with LED fog lights and a cold air intake on the hood featuring the Raptor logo. The sporty dual exhaust makes a mean rumble at the optional automatic power tailgate, which features an after-market look with a gun-metal finish on the exhaust tips. The Raptor nameplate and block-letter Ford logo finish the classic, upscale look.
The Raptor is more heady, sturdy, and robust than the F-150’s more standard (and affordable) work truck models. For full-size off-roading trucks, the Ram 1500 or Chevy Silverado 1500 are comparable, when you spring for the similar high-end price range.
The spacious interior with luxurious black leather made me feel small. The bucket seats are very comfortable and super plush for a Ford.
The interior feels roomy enough to comfortably fit a family of five traveling cross-country or just to the store. There’s plenty of room for groceries and other items you wouldn’t want exposed in the truck’s bed.
The Ford Sync 4 infotainment system is on a 12-inch screen, which is wonderfully easy to use. I really enjoyed the luxe leather-wrapped steering wheel and the Bang & Olufsen sound system.
There are a lot of different auxiliary switches in the ceiling of the cabin’s interior. I enjoyed the optional moonroof, which nearly spanned the entire width of the vehicle.
This truck has so many features that it’s hard to think of more options to add. It would take some time to familiarize myself with the tech loaded in there.
Driving experience
Like with all F-150s, the driver decides on the aftermarket parts. Rear parking assist provides added comfort so you don’t back into anything.
It’s easy to maneuver with its 10-speed transmission and 3.5-liter eco-boost engine and offers lots of power immediately when you hit the gas, but it’s not scary to drive. Even though it’s a very big piece of machinery, you still feel in control and not overwhelmed by the size of the truck.
You can barely feel the transitions from one gear to the next. The Raptor felt like it could smoothly transition from the off-road experience to paved driving. It’s easy to turn and maneuver, even in the city.
The acceleration is very responsive, but you can tell it’s making moves — and taking up space. A lot of the heavy torque really kicks in during the higher gears. Visibility was great while driving.
For off-roading, this truck features upgraded suspension and rockers. I only drove on city streets this time, though.
I really enjoyed that the Raptor has a 36-gallon fuel tank so I can definitely get where I need to go. It earns about 16 miles per gallon.
The Ford F-150 Raptor is a great ride
The truck is perfect for a driver who’s looking for a serious vehicle that offers the ultimate off-roading experience. With all the standard features on the truck’s base model, owners can feel good about the value they’re getting from the Raptor.
I think the upgraded model is worth its price, especially for drivers who need a full-size truck and often go off-road.
Driving the Raptor makes you feel cool. It’s very imposing and makes other vehicles look small. Although it might be a bit big for the city, it’s easy and comfortable to drive.
Even non-truck lovers will love hopping into this truck — I was delighted to get behind the wheel and enjoyed every moment of it.
