Ford has upgraded the F-150 Raptor for the 2019MY, but don’t expect any significant visual mods, because that’s not the case here.
Instead, what they did was work together with FOX to come up with new shocks that feature electronically-controlled Live Valve technology. The latter adjusts damping in real-time by using sensors in the suspension and body, which maximizes comfort, handling and bottom-out resistance.
The Live Valve suspension technology is paired with the Ford F-150 Raptor’s Terrain Management System. Besides the aforementioned improvements, it also allows the potent truck to drive on challenging terrains at higher speeds than before.
“Not many trucks need sensors to detect when you are midair. Raptor sets the dampers to full stiffness to help smooth shock performance as the truck lands”, said the Ford Performance vehicle programs global director, Hermann Salenbauch. “By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel of 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear.”
But it’s not all about speed and when it comes to the 2019 Ford F-150 Raptor, because it also gets a new Trail Control. The function works pretty much like cruise control for low-speed, rugged terrain, and adjusts the power and braking to each individual wheel. Thus, it allows drivers to focus on steering. The system can be activated at speeds between 1 and 20mph (2-32km/h), and it depends on driveline position, as the manufacturer says.
Keeping front occupants firmly in place are the enhanced sport seats. Made by Recaro, they provide good side support and come with blue Alcantara inserts and contrast stitching, inspired by the Ford GT supercar.
Finally, the Michigan-based automaker offers new colors for the 2019 F-150 Raptor. These are called Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue and Agate Black, and are joined by an enhanced rear appliqué and new wheels.
Production of the high-performance pickup truck will commence at the Dearborn plant, and the vehicle will go on sale in Q4 this year.