2017 Ford Raptor Release Date, Price, Specs: better engine and tires in truck coming later this year

Official Ford web site

Back in 2010, the American multinational carmaker, Ford, launched its very first F-150 Raptor. The high-performance off-road pickup was very well received that a lot of car enthusiasts are now waiting for the second-generation truck.

According to CNet.com, the 2017 Ford Raptor is likely to be out later this year. The website even called Ford's latest pickup "the most-anticipated truck debut of the decade."

Details about the pricing of the 2017 Ford Raptor remain scarce, but CarAndDriver.com estimates the new off-road pickup to cost around $50,000 to $60,000.

The same website reported that the 2017 Ford Raptor's new boxed steel frame will be reinforced from the current models, and will be available in two: the sportier 133-inch-wheelbase SuperCab and the roomier 145-inch SuperCrew, which is expected to be more expensive that the former.

As for the specifications, CarAndDriver.com was able to see preproduction 2017 Ford Raptors and noted some interesting features: a contoured steering wheel with large paddle shifters, sports seats up front with contrasting stitching, and some carbon-fiber accents.

The 2017 Ford Raptor is also reportedly the first recipient of a second-generation 3.5-liter V-6 with twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. It has high-powered Ecoboos engines, which is believed to be influenced by racing cars produced by the carmaker.

In addition to this, 2017 Ford Raptor's engine reportedly also has a true dual-exhaust system with twin outlets notched in the rear bumper.

Motor Authority meanwhile recently reported that the 2017 Ford Raptor will have custom BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires, which are quite different from the ordinary ones bought from tire shops.

Ford reportedly promised "the tires matched the extreme performance expected from Raptor" after tests conducted by the car manufacturer and the tire maker, BFGoodrich. The company added that hundreds of hours of testing were involved in their collaboration with BFGoodrich.