Ford May be Working on a New Raptor Prototype

Photo Source: Ford

The Ford Expedition is a massive SUV. To give the reader a general idea of the vehicle’s bulk, it is more than 17 feet long, weighs 5,500 pounds, and closes in on being seven feet wide. It might not be something conventionally used for unbelievably challenging off-road endeavors. Buyers would be seeking an even more capable off-roader for that type of excursion. The Raptor sub-brand, for example, is already expanding, with Ford integrating the Bronco Raptor and a newly-added Ranger Raptor as part of the lineup. The addition of a Ford Expedition Raptor may paint an entirely different picture. Ford is genuinely considering making the vehicle a reality if the rumors are to be believed. According to unnamed sources from Ford Authority, a new off-road variant of the Expedition is being contemplated. This version would slot in the large SUV’s lineup ahead of the existing Timberline, which premiered for the 2022 model year. It could even end up being dubbed the Expedition Raptor.

However, neither the new iteration nor the Raptor name has received official confirmation. Hence, speculation is all there is to build upon, but such a vehicle would make sense for the Blue Oval to take under advisement. After all, Ford already has the Expedition Timberline on the market, which is a replacement for the old FX4 trim level. The Timberline can rev up to 440 horsepower and produce 510 pound-feet of torque courtesy of a robust 3.5-liter V-6 engine. Also, considering that the automobile comes equipped with 33-inch all-terrain tires, 10.6 inches of ground clearance, the Bronco’s Trail Turn Assist feature, and the F-150 Raptor’s skid plate, anything that goes beyond the Expedition Timberline would undoubtedly be characterized as a Raptor.

Pushing the Envelope

Pushing the limits further and offering a full-on Raptor variation could mark a crucial distinction for the brand, separating it from potential rivals by providing something new and riveting. Reportedly, the wheels and tires that the Ford “Expedition Raptor” prototype is riding on are uncannily similar to the standard, non-Beadlock-capable components that are found on the current Ford F-150 Raptor, which are encased in some enormous tires – more prominent than the 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler A/Ts used on the Expedition Timberline.

The Timberline establishes the foundation for this Raptor precursor, as the front and rear ends of the automobile present unique aesthetics, going so far as to have a Timberline emblem on the tailgate. Curiously, however, the running boards and the hood are covered in camp, while chrome trim also appears on the tailgate, which is not a feature typically displayed on this specific SUV. 

Questions Going Forward

It is still a matter of conjecture as to whether this iteration will be outfitted with the same brawny hardware as other Ford trims that carry the Raptor badge, but given the triumph that the Blue Oval has achieved with its array of Raptor high-performance off-road trims, relying on the same method for the Expedition is entirely reasonable. If given the green light of confirmation, the final product could have a different name altogether. Although the F-150 and Bronco Raptors have proven to be popular enough, a good number of consumers would likely want to get the Raptor badge on their family SUV.

While we await more information about the enticing Expedition Raptor, please visit Sunrise Ford. We are all about helping our customers enjoy their shopping experience. Come and glimpse the wide range of Ford vehicles we offer, including our new and used car inventories. Our trained and committed sales team will be more than happy to guide you along the way.