2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Gets Even More Capable Off-Road

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

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When it comes to full size pickups that will take you to the middle of nowhere at alarmingly high speeds, Ford’s highly successful F-150 SVT Raptor is in a class by itself. The already-capable truck gets a few significant upgrades for the 2012 model year, and the changes should help improve the truck’s rock-crawling and climbing ability.

First up is a new Torsen front differential, which will give the 2012 Raptor better front end grip over obstacles than its 2011 counterpart. The Torsen differential uses a helical gearset to transfer torque from a wheel that’s slipping to the wheel that still has traction. The system multiplies torque with a bias ratio of 2.5:1, and is designed and calibrated to minimize steering feedback (which is a good thing in an off-road setting).

Since the Raptor's now-standard 6.2-liter V-8 makes it the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market, Ford’s SVT group and Torsen worked to ensure the new differential would meet Ford’s durability standards. Testing was carried out in both laboratory settings and on Ford’s 1,000 mile “torture test,” designed specifically for the SVT Raptor.

Next up is a class-exclusive front camera system designed specifically for low-speed, off-road driving. The camera, which displays a video feed on the Raptor’s 8-inch navigation display, allows the driver to see what’s immediately in front of the truck. In certain circumstances, the camera can even replace (or supplement) a spotter, and should prove useful for rock crawling, fording streams or climbing steep grades.

Other changes are mostly cosmetic, including a new exterior graphics package that blends glossy, matte and textured finishes for what Ford describes as a “one-of-a-kind” look. There’s a new interior color accent package, in matte anodized blue, and it’s available with every exterior color choice except Ford’s new Race Red.

Cooled seats become part of the optional Luxury Package for 2012, and a new “Euroflange” wheel is designed to hold balancing weights on the inside to protect them from off-road obstacles.

The 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is available in both SuperCab (two door) and SuperCrew (four door) configurations, with 80 percent of buyers choosing the SuperCrew option. Prices for 2012 models have not yet been set, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see a slight bump from last year’s $43,055 starting point for SuperCab models.

View the original article here

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Gets Even More Capable Off-Road

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

Newsletter Stay up to date on car reviews, buying guides, articles and more

When it comes to full size pickups that will take you to the middle of nowhere at alarmingly high speeds, Ford’s highly successful F-150 SVT Raptor is in a class by itself. The already-capable truck gets a few significant upgrades for the 2012 model year, and the changes should help improve the truck’s rock-crawling and climbing ability.

First up is a new Torsen front differential, which will give the 2012 Raptor better front end grip over obstacles than its 2011 counterpart. The Torsen differential uses a helical gearset to transfer torque from a wheel that’s slipping to the wheel that still has traction. The system multiplies torque with a bias ratio of 2.5:1, and is designed and calibrated to minimize steering feedback (which is a good thing in an off-road setting).

Since the Raptor's now-standard 6.2-liter V-8 makes it the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market, Ford’s SVT group and Torsen worked to ensure the new differential would meet Ford’s durability standards. Testing was carried out in both laboratory settings and on Ford’s 1,000 mile “torture test,” designed specifically for the SVT Raptor.

Next up is a class-exclusive front camera system designed specifically for low-speed, off-road driving. The camera, which displays a video feed on the Raptor’s 8-inch navigation display, allows the driver to see what’s immediately in front of the truck. In certain circumstances, the camera can even replace (or supplement) a spotter, and should prove useful for rock crawling, fording streams or climbing steep grades.

Other changes are mostly cosmetic, including a new exterior graphics package that blends glossy, matte and textured finishes for what Ford describes as a “one-of-a-kind” look. There’s a new interior color accent package, in matte anodized blue, and it’s available with every exterior color choice except Ford’s new Race Red.

Cooled seats become part of the optional Luxury Package for 2012, and a new “Euroflange” wheel is designed to hold balancing weights on the inside to protect them from off-road obstacles.

The 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is available in both SuperCab (two door) and SuperCrew (four door) configurations, with 80 percent of buyers choosing the SuperCrew option. Prices for 2012 models have not yet been set, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see a slight bump from last year’s $43,055 starting point for SuperCab models.

View the original article here

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Gets Even More Capable Off-Road

2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

Newsletter Stay up to date on car reviews, buying guides, articles and more

When it comes to full size pickups that will take you to the middle of nowhere at alarmingly high speeds, Ford’s highly successful F-150 SVT Raptor is in a class by itself. The already-capable truck gets a few significant upgrades for the 2012 model year, and the changes should help improve the truck’s rock-crawling and climbing ability.

First up is a new Torsen front differential, which will give the 2012 Raptor better front end grip over obstacles than its 2011 counterpart. The Torsen differential uses a helical gearset to transfer torque from a wheel that’s slipping to the wheel that still has traction. The system multiplies torque with a bias ratio of 2.5:1, and is designed and calibrated to minimize steering feedback (which is a good thing in an off-road setting).

Since the Raptor's now-standard 6.2-liter V-8 makes it the most powerful half-ton pickup on the market, Ford’s SVT group and Torsen worked to ensure the new differential would meet Ford’s durability standards. Testing was carried out in both laboratory settings and on Ford’s 1,000 mile “torture test,” designed specifically for the SVT Raptor.

Next up is a class-exclusive front camera system designed specifically for low-speed, off-road driving. The camera, which displays a video feed on the Raptor’s 8-inch navigation display, allows the driver to see what’s immediately in front of the truck. In certain circumstances, the camera can even replace (or supplement) a spotter, and should prove useful for rock crawling, fording streams or climbing steep grades.

Other changes are mostly cosmetic, including a new exterior graphics package that blends glossy, matte and textured finishes for what Ford describes as a “one-of-a-kind” look. There’s a new interior color accent package, in matte anodized blue, and it’s available with every exterior color choice except Ford’s new Race Red.

Cooled seats become part of the optional Luxury Package for 2012, and a new “Euroflange” wheel is designed to hold balancing weights on the inside to protect them from off-road obstacles.

The 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is available in both SuperCab (two door) and SuperCrew (four door) configurations, with 80 percent of buyers choosing the SuperCrew option. Prices for 2012 models have not yet been set, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see a slight bump from last year’s $43,055 starting point for SuperCab models.

View the original article here

Mopar officially releases “Ram Runner” off-road kit pricing

Leftlane has brought you details and images of Ram Runner style trucks over the past year, but now Mopar has officially released its kit along with pricing and options.

But in the event you somehow missed it, the Ram Runner is a special off-road truck that is equipped with a myriad of parts normally only found in the aftermarket, ranging from suspension, to bumpers to wider fenders and beyond.

“At Mopar, our image vehicles showcase potential directions that we may take and the new Ram Runner kit is a good example,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO, Mopar. “We saw the reception that Ram Runner received last year and quickly moved to offer kits that will allow off-road enthusiasts to transform their stock Ram 1500 into a desert racer.”

The premise of the Ram Runner kit is that enthusiasts can apply OEM-quality (and engineered) parts to their existing 2009-2011 Ram 1500 trucks at their own pace and to the extent that their personal style desires. The ability to order parts in a piecemeal or full kit fashion allows enthusiasts with all different budgets and tastes to build their truck just how they want it, rather than having to buy an all-new truck that comes completely finished from day one.

For those who want the whole deal in one shot, the Pre-runner stage II kit will run $13,270, and includes a 5-link coil-spring rear suspension, 4130 chrome moly lower control arms, upper control arms, Fox three-inch internal bypass shocks, rebuildable high-angle ball joints and forged steel tie rods. The net result? An impressive 14-inches of front and rear suspension travel.

But the suspension kit is just a starting point for those looking to traverse the desert or mountain at highway speeds, which of course will need an off-road front bumper made of steel with an integrated aluminum skid plate that offers a 41-degree approach angle. This heavy-duty off-road bumper will set you back $1,250. But if you’re going to push your Ram Runner that hard, you better keep a spare tire, and for that Mopar has you covered with the off-road tire carrier. This unique mount installs in the bed of the truck and carries a full-size off-road wheel and tire combo, setting you back a cool $1,010 (wheel and tire not included).

Of course, if you want to really use your truck and show your friends just how high and far you can jump your Ram, then you will want a set of fiberglass fenders front and rear. The front set will set you back $1,020, while the rear fenders (6’4” bed only) will require another $1,020 of your cold, hard cash. These fenders allow for larger wheels and tires, greater articulation and give the truck a legitimate pre-runner look and feel.

If you’re going to get the custom fenders, well then you better complete the custom look with the sport performance hood made of stamped aluminum, boasting dual scoops. As far as custom hoods go, this piece comes in at a bargain price of just $978.

All show and no go? Of course not. In addition to the suspension, protection and cosmetic appeal, Mopar also has a “loud and proud” dual cat-back exhaust for 5.7-liter-equipped trucks as well. This exhaust will set you back $1,135, and comes complete with chrome tips.

In case you weren’t adding it up as you went, a fully customized Ram Runner is going to add a cool $19,683 to the price of your Ram 1500. That is of course assuming you do the labor yourself and don’t pay sales tax.

If the pricing doesn’t scare you, head down to your local Chrysler dealer and order your parts directly from the parts counter and let the fun begin.

View the original article here

Mopar officially releases “Ram Runner” off-road kit pricing

Leftlane has brought you details and images of Ram Runner style trucks over the past year, but now Mopar has officially released its kit along with pricing and options.

But in the event you somehow missed it, the Ram Runner is a special off-road truck that is equipped with a myriad of parts normally only found in the aftermarket, ranging from suspension, to bumpers to wider fenders and beyond.

“At Mopar, our image vehicles showcase potential directions that we may take and the new Ram Runner kit is a good example,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO, Mopar. “We saw the reception that Ram Runner received last year and quickly moved to offer kits that will allow off-road enthusiasts to transform their stock Ram 1500 into a desert racer.”

The premise of the Ram Runner kit is that enthusiasts can apply OEM-quality (and engineered) parts to their existing 2009-2011 Ram 1500 trucks at their own pace and to the extent that their personal style desires. The ability to order parts in a piecemeal or full kit fashion allows enthusiasts with all different budgets and tastes to build their truck just how they want it, rather than having to buy an all-new truck that comes completely finished from day one.

For those who want the whole deal in one shot, the Pre-runner stage II kit will run $13,270, and includes a 5-link coil-spring rear suspension, 4130 chrome moly lower control arms, upper control arms, Fox three-inch internal bypass shocks, rebuildable high-angle ball joints and forged steel tie rods. The net result? An impressive 14-inches of front and rear suspension travel.

But the suspension kit is just a starting point for those looking to traverse the desert or mountain at highway speeds, which of course will need an off-road front bumper made of steel with an integrated aluminum skid plate that offers a 41-degree approach angle. This heavy-duty off-road bumper will set you back $1,250. But if you’re going to push your Ram Runner that hard, you better keep a spare tire, and for that Mopar has you covered with the off-road tire carrier. This unique mount installs in the bed of the truck and carries a full-size off-road wheel and tire combo, setting you back a cool $1,010 (wheel and tire not included).

Of course, if you want to really use your truck and show your friends just how high and far you can jump your Ram, then you will want a set of fiberglass fenders front and rear. The front set will set you back $1,020, while the rear fenders (6’4” bed only) will require another $1,020 of your cold, hard cash. These fenders allow for larger wheels and tires, greater articulation and give the truck a legitimate pre-runner look and feel.

If you’re going to get the custom fenders, well then you better complete the custom look with the sport performance hood made of stamped aluminum, boasting dual scoops. As far as custom hoods go, this piece comes in at a bargain price of just $978.

All show and no go? Of course not. In addition to the suspension, protection and cosmetic appeal, Mopar also has a “loud and proud” dual cat-back exhaust for 5.7-liter-equipped trucks as well. This exhaust will set you back $1,135, and comes complete with chrome tips.

In case you weren’t adding it up as you went, a fully customized Ram Runner is going to add a cool $19,683 to the price of your Ram 1500. That is of course assuming you do the labor yourself and don’t pay sales tax.

If the pricing doesn’t scare you, head down to your local Chrysler dealer and order your parts directly from the parts counter and let the fun begin.

View the original article here

Mopar officially releases “Ram Runner” off-road kit pricing

Thursday, May 26th, 2011 @ 2:26 p.m.

Leftlane has brought you details and images of Ram Runner style trucks over the past year, but now Mopar has officially released its kit along with pricing and options.

But in the event you somehow missed it, the Ram Runner is a special off-road truck that is equipped with a myriad of parts normally only found in the aftermarket, ranging from suspension, to bumpers to wider fenders and beyond.

“At Mopar, our image vehicles showcase potential directions that we may take and the new Ram Runner kit is a good example,” said Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO, Mopar. “We saw the reception that Ram Runner received last year and quickly moved to offer kits that will allow off-road enthusiasts to transform their stock Ram 1500 into a desert racer.”

The premise of the Ram Runner kit is that enthusiasts can apply OEM-quality (and engineered) parts to their existing 2009-2011 Ram 1500 trucks at their own pace and to the extent that their personal style desires. The ability to order parts in a piecemeal or full kit fashion allows enthusiasts with all different budgets and tastes to build their truck just how they want it, rather than having to buy an all-new truck that comes completely finished from day one.

For those who want the whole deal in one shot, the Pre-runner stage II kit will run $13,270, and includes a 5-link coil-spring rear suspension, 4130 chrome moly lower control arms, upper control arms, Fox three-inch internal bypass shocks, rebuildable high-angle ball joints and forged steel tie rods. The net result? An impressive 14-inches of front and rear suspension travel.

But the suspension kit is just a starting point for those looking to traverse the desert or mountain at highway speeds, which of course will need an off-road front bumper made of steel with an integrated aluminum skid plate that offers a 41-degree approach angle. This heavy-duty off-road bumper will set you back $1,250. But if you’re going to push your Ram Runner that hard, you better keep a spare tire, and for that Mopar has you covered with the off-road tire carrier. This unique mount installs in the bed of the truck and carries a full-size off-road wheel and tire combo, setting you back a cool $1,010 (wheel and tire not included).

Of course, if you want to really use your truck and show your friends just how high and far you can jump your Ram, then you will want a set of fiberglass fenders front and rear. The front set will set you back $1,020, while the rear fenders (6’4” bed only) will require another $1,020 of your cold, hard cash. These fenders allow for larger wheels and tires, greater articulation and give the truck a legitimate pre-runner look and feel.

If you’re going to get the custom fenders, well then you better complete the custom look with the sport performance hood made of stamped aluminum, boasting dual scoops. As far as custom hoods go, this piece comes in at a bargain price of just $978.

All show and no go? Of course not. In addition to the suspension, protection and cosmetic appeal, Mopar also has a “loud and proud” dual cat-back exhaust for 5.7-liter-equipped trucks as well. This exhaust will set you back $1,135, and comes complete with chrome tips.

In case you weren’t adding it up as you went, a fully customized Ram Runner is going to add a cool $19,683 to the price of your Ram 1500. That is of course assuming you do the labor yourself and don’t pay sales tax.

If the pricing doesn’t scare you, head down to your local Chrysler dealer and order your parts directly from the parts counter and let the fun begin.

View the original article here