Ford Raptor Gen 2 vs Gen 3 – Major Changes and Improvements

The Ford Raptor is characterized by its tough and versatile character, making it one of the iconic American automaker's greats when it comes to on- and off-road driving. These are coupled with the kind of power it's packing plus efficiency that will surely let you get a lot of things done with it without much of a hassle.

The year 2021 marked the changing of the guard in the Raptor lineup as it transitioned into the third-generation model. So, what went on during its change?

What You'll Learn Here

It's a hard choice between the Gen 2 and the Gen 3 of the Raptor because they share a lot of key features. However, since the Gen 3 is the new one, at least it is expected to get fresh equipment along the way.

This article will provide a comparison between the key features of both generations of the Raptor in terms of their exterior, interior, and power primarily to help potential buyers determine whether they should get the pre-owned Gen 2 or it's better to get the Gen 3. Likewise, this also aims to aid owners of the Gen 2 to decide whether or not they should upgrade their units.

Exterior

At a glance, it seems not much has changed in the body styling of the Gen 3 compared to the Gen 2. However, a closer look will certainly reveal some interesting details.

Both are defined by their huge front grilles emblazoned with the name of their brand, but you will notice that the panel of the Gen 2 is chunkier than the elongated layout of the Gen 3. The grille redesign also means that the LED headlamps have been revised.

The front lights on the Gen 3 now departs from the irregular shape of the ones in the Gen 2. The hood scoop of the latest model shows subtle enhancements, too.

Meanwhile, the integration of the fog lights on the sides of the front bumper, marker lights on top of the grille, and the positioning of the sensors are pretty much the same. You can find the rigid skid plate and tow hooks there as well.

Looking under, you will see that the Gen 3 has a new Live Valve version in its suspension. The improvements in this part mean that the Raptor is now more capable of handling varied terrain with the same level of performance.

Basically, Live Valve actively maximizes handling, comfort, and bottom-out resistance by utilizing the sensors and accelerometers in the vehicle to instantly adapt to inertial, steering, braking, and acceleration inputs.

Examining the wheels, both the Gen 2 and Gen 3 are fitted with beadlock-capable 17-inch aluminum wheels. In their stock configurations, they come with six Y-spoke wheels and 35-inch stock tires. Paying more attention to small details will let you notice that the Gen 3 has more spacing in its wheel well compared to the Gen 2, which translates to a slightly higher stance and potentially better off-road performance.

On the sides, the Gen 3 retained the off-road side steps of the Gen 2. Once again, it departs on some key accessories just to keep its vibe fresher than the older units. The minor changes include the side mirror caps, side vents, door handles, and lighting components in the fenders from here.

Going around the back part, a peek behind the wheels will show you the new Live Valves on the Gen 3. Additionally, it discards the leaf springs of the Gen 2 in favor of 5-link coil suspensions, and it shows that the tailgate is now sporting a more streamlined design that smoothly blends the fittings of the taillights plus another pair of integrated lights housed on the back of the fenders.

Sadly, the customary bedliner on the Gen 2 has been ditched by the Gen 3, which is now only available as an option. The rest are pretty much the same with the twin-rounded exhaust tips, tow hooks, parking sensors, and rear bumper.

In terms of exterior design, the Gen 3 has kept most of the features that make the widebody styling of the Gen 2 quite appealing to buyers while making just enough revisions along the way to make it stand out a bit from its predecessor.  Nonetheless, both the similarities and moderate differences in styling and functionality still make the Gen 3 a worthy successor to the famed Raptor series.

Interior

The cabin of the Gen 2 and Gen 3 of the Raptor share a lot of similarities on the surface. Both are made with high-quality materials, but with the Gen 3 obviously getting Ford's latest SYNC infotainment system, and boasting plenty of useful standard features such as power adjustable driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, integrated navigation, and Apple Carplay/Android Auto compatibility.

That said, some changes have been made to make sure the Gen 3 makes its own mark inside the cab. Most notable is the 10-inch vertical touchscreen display available in higher trims. This larger display gives users access to more features than ever before while also providing an intuitive interface for drivers and passengers alike.

The interior design has changed up a bit compared to its predecessor, with the Gen 3 sporting a more modernized style and feel. The seats are made of better-quality materials, providing drivers and passengers alike with an even more comfortable ride. Additionally, some trims now come equipped with Ford's Pro-Trailer Backup Assist feature that makes backing up trailers easier than ever before.

All in all, the interior of the Gen 3 is just as great as its predecessor-albeit with a few minor tweaks here and there to make it stand out from the crowd. This means that you can expect added convenience, comfort, and entertainment features when compared to the Gen 2 model.

Ultimately, if you're looking for an upgrade in cabin styling plus extra functionality, then the new Ford Raptor Gen 3 is definitely worth your time.

Power

In terms of powering up this monster, the Gen 3 Raptor retains the 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine of the Gen 2 capable of producing 450 hp and 510 lb-ft torque. The fuel economy of this truck is pegged at 15 mpg in city drives and 18 on the highway. The payload capacity of the Gen 3 also sees a significant jump from the Gen 2's 1,074 lbs to 1,352 lbs.

Both engines get their power routed via a 10-speed automatic transmission that's been mated to Ford's Terrain Management System which lets drivers choose between seven dynamic driving modes. This means that regardless of whether you're on the roads or traversing off-road terrain, the Gen 3 can handle it all with ease.

The Gen 3 Raptor is fairly new so it's hard to get reliable data showing its actual longevity. However, since it shares a lot of key elements with the Gen 2, it is expected to have the same level of durability.

According to reports, mechanics, and user feedback, the Gen 2 can go up to 300,000 miles before requiring uneconomical repairs or replacements-particularly in the engine. The numbers, of course, come with the consideration that the unit is subjected to regular maintenance and good driving habits.

Is the Gen 3 Worth It?

With its improved exterior styling and interior features, the new Ford Raptor Gen 3 is a great choice for anyone looking to buy a powerful and stylish pickup truck that can take on any challenge. From smooth and tough road conditions, this mighty vehicle won't let you down.

With its twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission mated to Ford's Terrain Management System, it has more than enough power and control to get you where you need to go with ease. So, don't hesitate because the Ford Raptor Gen 3 is a good pick for anyone who wants all the convenience and performance of a modern vehicle combined with classic off-road capabilities.

The Gen 2 Raptor does not disappoint either. It's just a notch back from the suspension, exterior, and interior of the Gen 3, but it has the same engine that can be relied on in terms of performance, durability, and loading capacity.

A lot of things that drive the demand for the Gen 3 in the market are chiefly thanks to the things that have been proven already by the Gen 2. Likewise, all the learning experiences derived by Ford in the development and production of the Gen 2 have paved the way for improvements in the Gen 3. So, it's hard to go wrong with this, too, if you're on the lookout for a used pickup truck.

Conclusion

To wrap things up, the Ford Raptor Gen 3 has improved upon its predecessor in many ways. With its modern exterior styling, upgraded interior features, tech, and added convenience such as the Live Valves suspension system, this truck is truly one of a kind.

So, if you're looking for a pickup truck that can take on any terrain with ease while still providing you with all the comfort and convenience of a modern vehicle, then the Ford Raptor Gen 3 is definitely worth your money and time.