2023 Ford F-150 Lightning

For 2023, the Ford F-150 makes the gnarly Raptor even gnarlier with the Raptor R package, which adds a supercharged V8 engine, long-travel suspension specially calibrated for the engine’s 700 horsepower, and unique Raptor R styling cues.

In honour of 75 years of the F-Series, the regular lineup is now available with a Heritage Edition package on the XLT trim. The package is the two-tone trim from the 1970s and 1980s with a differently-coloured midsection.

The all-electric F-150 Lightning now receives Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, which controls the steering, throttle and brakes when hitching up a trailer; it’s part of the Tow Technology Package, which is optional or standard depending on the trim. The Lightning trims with standard-range battery have an increased range of 386 km, up from 370 km. The truck also offers two new exterior colours of Avalanche Grey and Azure Grey metallic tri-coat.

Performance

The regular F-150 has a choice of five engines, their availability dependent on trim. They are a 3.3L V6 making 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque; 2.7L EcoBoost – Ford’s name for turbocharging – with 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque; 5.0L V8 for 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 making 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque; and the 3.5L EcoBoost mated to a hybrid system and churning out 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. It’s a full hybrid and is capable of driving on its battery alone. All engines have a ten-speed automatic transmission.

The Raptor uses a high-output version of the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, making 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. The new Raptor R package swaps that for a supercharged 5.2L V8 that makes 700 horsepower and 640 lb-ft of torque.

The all-electric Lightning uses dual electric motors that provide four-wheel drive. The XLT and Lariat come with a standard battery that makes 426 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque, and with that improved range of 386 kilometres. Optional on those and standard on the Platinum is an extended-range battery for 563 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque, and a range of 483 km.

Practicality

The F-150 comes in a regular cab with 6-foot-6 or 8-foot bed; Super Cab (double cab) with those two bed lengths; or Super Crew with 5-foot-6 or 6-foot-6 bed. Both the regular and Super Cab come only in XL and XLT trim. The crew cab is available in those two trims plus six more, including the Raptor. The Lightning comes only in crew cab configuration.

The conventional F-150 can tow up to a maximum of 14,000 when properly equipped, while the hybrid can handle up to 12,700 lbs. The Lightning can tow up to 10,000 lbs. Some conventional models, and the hybrid and Lightning, include a power inverter that can run power tools and appliances.

The F-150 offers off-road capability out of the box, starting with the Tremor, which includes 33-inch all-terrain tires, tuned shock absorbers and front and rear tow hooks. The Raptor is even tougher, with heavy-duty skid plates, one-pedal trail driving, Fox racing shocks and 34-inch all-terrain tires. The Raptor R is basically Ford’s high-powered answer to the Ram TRX, and has specially-tuned Fox live-valve shocks, unique exhaust system, 37-inch tires on 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, unique grille, and Recaro seats.

Canadian Pricing

The F-150 in regular cab starts at $46,055; the Super Cab at $52,250, and the Super Crew begins at $55,430. The Tremor starts at $73,995. The Raptor begins at $105,275, while the Raptor R starts at $146,005. The electric Lightning comes in three trim levels that range from $79,000 to $121,000.