SEMA 2017: Ford F-150 RTR concept revealed

If you were devastated that the 2017 Ford F-150 Raptor ditched the V8 for a downsized 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, worry no more.

RTR, the company created by Mustang-driving Formula Drift champion Vaughn Gittin Jr., has revealed the Ford F-150 RTR Muscle Truck concept at the 2017 SEMA show, packing a full complement of cylinders.

Rather than turn the wick up on the boosted V6, the RTR team has installed a 447kW 5.0-litre V8 – presumably packing a supercharger with that power output – linked to a 10-speed auto gearbox.

To ensure the Muscle Truck can cope with everything it encounters, the chassis is upgraded with RTR long-travel coilovers and off-road wheels wrapped in 33-inch Nitto tyres.

According to RTR, “Whether looking for some fun off-road, drifting around the next corner, getting some air, or simply cruising the streets, the F-150 RTR is designed for all the fun you can throw at it.” Sounds good to us.

Externally, the F150 RTR can be identified by a signature grille and lighting package, flared guards, tailgate applique, RTR badging and a sump guard for “off-road adventures and the occasional flying”, while inside there’s a custom interior by Californian trimmer Katzkin.

According to Gittin Jr. the F-150 RTR is undergoing “final vehicles dynamics testing and tuning,” adding “I am a longtime fan of the F-Series line-up and expanding RTR into the Ford F-150 has been a goal since day one.”

Along with the new 522kW RTR Mustang, final specifications and pricing for the F-150 RTR Muscle Truck will be revealed ahead of its release to US Ford dealers in 2018.