Eagerly awaited 2017 Ford Raptor generating big interest at Friendly Ford

In the words of Ford Motor Corp., the latest Raptor is all about change, from headlamp to tailgate; and from suspension to drivetrain. With what is termed an “aluminum body and steel backbone,” the Raptor is 500 pounds lighter than before, and it’s high-strength, boxed steel frame has resulted in the best-performing, most capable Raptor yet.

About to be unleashed in an area where off-road racing has been highlighted for several decades with events all around Nevada, the Raptor is considered the beast of off-road. Whether the driver is a race competitor, or someone who simply wants to have the capability to cruise the desert or the highway, the Raptor is multifaceted.

Considering that the Raptor has better running clearance than the first-generation version, it’s equally as impressive since the additions have included four-wheel drive, a torque-on-demand transfer case and 3.0-inch FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology.

The effort has resulted in the creation of a Raptor that combines the best attributes of clutch-driven, all-wheel drive with durable, mechanical-locking four-wheel drive.

In a nutshell, the end result provides impressive off-road performance and a smooth ride on road. The Raptor is yet another example of Ford’s intense engineering and design talents that have propelled it to a level of respect that is evident worldwide.

In riding the wave of popularity of the Raptor, Ford has included an all-new twin-turbo, intercooled Direct Over Head Cam 24-valve, high-output, 3.5-liter Eco-Boost with direct fuel injection that is expected to deliver more power than the previous 6.2-liter V-8. The power package is complemented by a 10-speed automatic transmission that will send power to all four wheels.

A Terrain Management System includes six preset modes able to accommodate various environmental conditions with settings that include street, Baja, mud and sand. The truck also boasts 17-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires designed specifically for the Raptor.

In this case, the 2017 Raptor has resulted in a long list of interested customers and deposits for the vehicle, which is expected to arrive at Friendly Ford sometime this fall.

The Raptor is also available in a SuperCrew model with bigger doors and more room. The model features the Raptor’s aggressive distinctive look with signature grill, muscular haunches, a giant front skid plate and an improved rear departure that helps the Raptor transition from flat land to steep hills.

“The new Ford Raptor is one of the greatest vehicles to ever come off Ford’s assembly line,” said dealership general sales manager Steve Crevling.

Located at 660 N. Decatur Blvd., Friendly Ford has been at the same location since 1970 and is also a 17-time winner of the prestigious President’s Award, Ford’s highest single honor for customer satisfaction.

Further information is available by calling 702-870-7221 or by visiting friendlyfordlv.com. The dealership is headed by general manager Jason Davis.