Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters

Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters

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.

Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters

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

Gen 3 vs. Gen 3.5 Raptor: What Ford Changed and Why It Matters

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.

2021-2023 F150 Raptor

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2024-2025 F150 Raptor

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