Bottom Line Up Front
The 2017 Ford F‑150 Raptor ditched the beloved 5.0‑liter V8 for a 3.5‑liter twin‑turbo EcoBoost V6, mainly to meet fuel‑economy standards, improve torque delivery, and keep the truck competitive.
Why Did the Ford Raptor V8 Disappear in 2017? The Real Reasons
Image: Why Did the Ford Raptor V8 Disappear in 2017? The Real Reasons – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Visually the Raptor stayed true to its aggressive silhouette – wide fenders, high‑lift grille, and the iconic “Raptor” badge. The switch to a smaller engine meant a slightly lighter front end, which helped the suspension feel a bit more planted on rough trails.
Performance & Mileage
Even though the V8 was a raw, naturally‑aspirated powerhouse, the EcoBoost V6 delivers more low‑end torque and better fuel numbers. The 2017 model jumps from 0‑60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, roughly the same as the 2016 V8, but averages around 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway versus the V8’s 13/18.
Price & Rivals
Pricing barely changed – both model years started near $55,000 – but the EcoBoost’s better mileage gave Ford a leg up against rivals like the Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss and the Ram 1500 TRX, which were still using larger V8s.
| Engine | Mileage (city/hwy) | Starting Price | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0 L V8 (2016) | 13 mpg / 18 mpg | $55,000 |
|
| 3.5 L EcoBoost V6 (2017) | 15 mpg / 22 mpg | $55,000 |
|
FAQ
- What is the fuel economy of the 2017 Raptor? About 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
- Is the EcoBoost V6 as strong as the old V8? Yes, it provides similar acceleration with more low‑end torque and better fuel efficiency.
- Should I buy a used 2016 Raptor V8? If you love the sound of a V8 and don’t mind lower mileage, it’s still a solid off‑road truck, but the newer EcoBoost offers better economy and newer tech.
What do you think about Ford’s decision? Leave a comment below!
Source: Read Official News
