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Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters
Posted by Chris Groote on 6/17/2025 to
Before you Buy
The Ford Raptor has always been the benchmark for high-speed off-road trucks, and the
Gen 3 (2021–2023)
brought a major leap forward with its five-link rear suspension and live-valve Fox shocks. But in typical Raptor fashion, Ford didn’t stop there. The updated
Gen 3.5 Raptor
, arriving in 2024-2025, delivers refined power delivery, subtle design tweaks, and a serious suspension upgrade with dual-valve Fox 3.1 shocks—setting a new standard for off-road capability and on-road composure. Whether you're cross-shopping a lightly used Gen 3 or eyeing a brand-new 3.5, this breakdown will help you understand what’s changed, what’s improved, and which version is right for your build or weekend adventures.
Overview
Category
Gen 3 Raptor (2021–2023)
Gen 3.5 Raptor (2024+)
Debut Year
2021
2024–2025
Platform
14th Gen F-150
Same
Engine (Base)
3.5L High-Output EcoBoost V6
Same
Engine (Raptor R)
5.2L Supercharged V8 (2023+)
Same
Transmission
10-speed automatic
Revised 10-speed with updated tuning
Horsepower (V6)
450 hp
450 hp (refined power delivery)
Horsepower (V8)
700 hp (Raptor R)
720 hp (Raptor R, 2024)
Torque (V6)
510 lb-ft
510 lb-ft
Torque (V8)
640 lb-ft
640 lb-ft
Suspension
Fox Live Valve Gen 2 3.1 shocks
Fox Live Valve Gen 3 3.1 w/ Dual Valves
Rear Suspension
5-link coil spring w/ Panhard bar
Same
Wheels
17" Beadlock-capable
New designs, same specs
Tire Options
35" or 37" BFGoodrich KO2s
Same
Interior
SYNC 4 w/ 12" display, digital cluster
Same layout, refined materials
Exhaust
Active-valve dual exhaust
Same
Exterior Styling
Widebody, bold grille, functional vents
Minor updates: grille, lights, bumpers
Key Upgrades in Gen 3.5 (2024-2025)
Suspension
Dual-Valve Fox Live Valve 3.1 Shocks:
Gen 3.5 introduces true dual-valve dampers that offer better high- and low-speed control, especially noticeable in desert whoops and high-speed cornering.
Transmission Calibration
Re-tuned 10-speed automatic for smoother shift logic and more intuitive power delivery — better for both towing and spirited off-roading
Cabin Comfort
Upgraded interior materials and minor NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) improvements. Aimed at improving daily drivability without sacrificing ruggedness.
Raptor R Upgrade
Bumped from 700 hp to 720 hp in 2024. Likely driven by Mustang Dark Horse-inspired engine refinements and ECU tuning.
Exterior Tweaks
Subtle grille and headlight revisions, depending on package. Tailgate and taillight refresh mimic 2024 F-150 standard lineup.
Performance Comparison Chart
Spec / Metric
Gen 3 Raptor V6
Gen 3.5 Raptor V6
Gen 3 Raptor R
Gen 3.5 Raptor R
0–60 MPH (est.)
~5.2 sec
~5.1 sec
~3.7 sec
~3.6 sec
Max Towing Capacity
8,200 lbs
8,200 lbs
8,700 lbs
8,700 lbs
Payload Capacity
~1,400 lbs
~1,400 lbs
~1,400 lbs
~1,400 lbs
Suspension Travel
14" front / 15" rear
Same
Same
Same
Fuel Economy (V6)
15 city / 18 hwy
Same
10 city / 15 hwy
10 city / 15 hwy
Wheels / Tires
17" / 35–37"
Same
Same
Same
Package & Tech Differences
Feature
Gen 3
Gen 3.5 (2024+)
Fox Dual-Valve Dampers
❌
✔
Trail Turn Assist
✔
✔
One-Pedal Drive (Low Speed)
✔
✔
Trail Control
✔
✔
Rear Electronic Locker
✔
✔
Front Torsen Diff
Optional
Standard on 37" pkg
BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving
Optional
Improved Version Available
Should You Upgrade?
Stick with Gen 3 if:
You already have a 2021–2023 model and mostly use it for moderate off-road use, towing, or daily driving.
You’ve already upgraded shocks or aren’t chasing every minor performance gain.
Consider Gen 3.5 if:
You want the latest Fox dual-valve suspension (a big deal for high-speed off-road).
You’re going with the Raptor R — the extra 20 hp and software tweaks give it more punch.
You're buying new — Gen 3.5 includes better tech integration and slightly fresher styling.
Gen 3 Raptor Color Options (2021–2023)
Color Name
Available Years
Notes
Code Orange
2021–2023
Raptor-exclusive, bold orange metallic
Rapid Red Metallic
2021–2022
Discontinued after 2022
Iconic Silver
2021–2023
Carried into Gen 3.5
Agate Black
2021–2023
Core color, always offered
Lead Foot
2021 only
Fan favorite, discontinued
Velocity Blue
2021–2022
Removed for 2023
Azure Gray Metallic
2023 only
Premium paint, extra cost
Antimatter Blue
2021–2022
Discontinued
Oxford White
2021–2023
Always available
Avalanche Gray
2022–2023 (Raptor R)
Flat gray, exclusive to Raptor R
Gen 3.5 Raptor Color Options (2024+)
Color Name
Raptor V6
Raptor R
Notes
Code Orange
✔
✔
Still exclusive and highly recognizable
Agate Black
✔
✔
Standard gloss black
Iconic Silver
✔
✔
Carried over from earlier years
Oxford White
✔
✔
Classic white, always available
Shelter Green Metallic
✔
✔
New for 2024, deep tactical green
Antimatter Blue
❌
❌
Discontinued after 2022
Avalanche Gray
❌
✔
Still exclusive to Raptor R
Azure Gray Metallic
✔
✔
Premium paint, shimmer effect
Terrain (Tan)
✔
❌
Earthy, desert-ready tone
Velocity Blue
✔ (return)
✔
Brought back for 2024
FAQs
1. Is the Gen 3.5 Raptor worth it over a Gen 3?
If you're buying new or are a high-performance off-roader, yes — mainly because of the Fox dual-valve suspension. But the Gen 3 remains a strong value if found lightly used.
2. Will Gen 3 owners be able to upgrade to the new Fox dual-valve shocks?
Not directly. The Gen 3.5's suspension update requires updated sensors and calibration, so a retrofit would be cost-prohibitive.
3. Is there any change in interior space or cab size?
No changes — both Gen 3 and Gen 3.5 use the same SuperCrew cab with identical dimensions.
Shop all 2021-2023 Raptor
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