Yahoo Autos 2019 Raptor Gets Real-Time Adaptive Suspension
In case you thought the F-150 Raptor wasn't capable enough off-road, well, Ford's just given it a bunch of performance-minded tech upgrades for the 2019 model year. The biggest change is in the Fox Racing shocks, which are now able to adapt to changing terrain in real-time without needing input from the driver. There's also an off-road cruise control mode called "Trail Control," and redesigned Recaro seats molded especially for the Raptor.
Previously, the Raptors suspension could only be adjusted from inside the cabin via six pre-set driving modes. Now, thanks to what Ford calls "Live Valve" technology, the suspension adjusts itself continuously in real-time while the truck is on the move. There's even a sensor that detects if the truck goes mid-air, in which case, it firms up the dampers to their stiffest setting to ensure a smooth impact.
Ford's Trail Control off-road cruise control works from 1 mph all the way up to 20 mph, designed to work on especially rough terrain by automatically adjusting power and braking to each individual wheel. The only thing the driver has to worry about is steering. The new Recaros get blue Alcantara inserts as well as contrasting blue stitching, which Ford says was inspired by the Ford GT supercar.
The Raptor's drivetrain remains unchanged for 2019, which means you still get a 450-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 sending power to a 4x4 system via a 10-speed automatic transmission. Like previous Raptors, it can be had in SuperCab or SuperCrew body configuration.
There's also three new colors for 2019: Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue, and Agate Black. Exterior changes are limited to a slightly altered rear fascia and new beadlock wheels. Updated pricing has yet to be announced, but Ford says production for the 2019 Raptor will kick off late 2018.
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