FIRST THE DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company paid for my travel and accommodations at a three-day NAIAS Digital Summit. I was not compensated in any other manner for my time. My opinions posted here are my own.
NOW onto the show … i.e., my continued reporting from the “Detroit Auto Show” (also know as the North American International Auto Show”).
Of all the things I saw at NAIAS, the one I keep talking about is the new Ford Raptor. It’s a monster. It’s a thing of beauty. And I really really want to get behind the wheel of one. (I liked it so much I talked about it on my radio show.)
First of all, the long name is Ford F-150 Raptor SuperCrew. The F-150 is one of the most popular vehicles in the country. In fact, according to Ford, the F-150 has been America’s favorite truck for 39 straight years and its favorite vehicle for 34 straight years.
The new Raptor has more room, for passengers and gear. I liked that it has four fill-size doors, for ease and comfort. The Raptor also is powered by Ford’s updated high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost® engine that produces more power with greater efficiency.
The Raptor’s off-road driving technology has evolved into an all-new Terrain Management System™ that enables the driver to select modes to optimize driving dynamics to environmental conditions – from snow to mud, sand and more. Though this means nothing to me, my brother was very impressed. I’m never going to take this particular feature for a spin. For those of you who will, here are the six preset modes:
- Normal mode for everyday driving
- Street mode for higher-performance, on-road driving
- Weather mode for rain, snow or ice
- Mud and sand mode for muddy and sandy trails and terrain
- Baja mode for high-speed desert running and
- Rock mode for low-speed rock crawling
And did I mention pretty? Yes, I’m that driver. But really, you have to see one in person to understand its true beauty. I have photos below, but they don’t do it justice.
And, again, a big hint to the Ford reps … I’d really love to drive one.
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DISCLAIMER: Ford Motor Company paid for my travel and accommodations at a three-day NAIAS Digital Summit. I was not compensated in any other manner for my time. My opinions posted here are my own.
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