Got a Raptor? Skip ahead and shop your gen.
Already know which Raptor you have? Pick your generation and start building. Full breakdown below.
Not sure which generation you have? Read the full breakdown below.
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 |
Build Your Raptor
Whether you're hunting parts for a Gen 3 or just took delivery of a new Gen 3.5, Stage 3 stocks the suspension, lighting, armor, and accessories that match your generation.
Shop Gen 3 (2021-2023) Shop Gen 3.5 (2024-2026)Frequently Asked Questions
What's the biggest difference between Gen 3 and Gen 3.5 Raptor?
The suspension. Gen 3.5 introduces Fox Live Valve Gen 3 dual-valve 3.1 shocks, replacing the single-valve dampers on Gen 3. Dual-valve dampers offer materially better high-speed and low-speed control, which is the most felt-on-the-road improvement when you're driving the truck. Other changes (transmission tuning, Raptor R 20 hp bump, minor styling) are real but smaller in impact.
Is the Gen 3.5 Raptor worth the premium over a Gen 3?
If you're buying new and primarily off-roading at speed, yes, mostly because of the dual-valve suspension. If you're buying lightly used or you do mostly daily driving and moderate trail use, the Gen 3 still offers excellent value at a lower price point. The Raptor R also gained 20 hp in 2024, so the premium is more justified there.
Can Gen 3 owners retrofit the Gen 3.5 dual-valve shocks?
Not directly. The Gen 3.5 dual-valve suspension uses updated sensors and ECU calibration that aren't compatible with Gen 3 wiring or vehicle programming. A retrofit would be cost-prohibitive. Gen 3 owners looking for a suspension upgrade are better served by aftermarket coilover packages or shock upgrades from brands like Fox, ICON, or King.
Are aftermarket parts cross-compatible between Gen 3 and Gen 3.5?
It depends on the part. Wheels, tires, lighting, and most armor pieces fit both generations because the chassis and platform are unchanged. Suspension components, electronic accessories, and certain bumper/grille pieces are generation-specific. Always confirm fitment before ordering. Stage 3's category pages are filtered by generation, so picking the right one (2021-2023 vs 2024-2026) ensures compatibility.
Did the cab or interior dimensions change between generations?
No. Both Gen 3 and Gen 3.5 use the same SuperCrew cab with identical interior dimensions. Gen 3.5 received material upgrades and minor NVH improvements aimed at daily drivability, but seating layout, cargo space, and overall cabin geometry are unchanged.
How do I quickly tell if my Raptor is Gen 3 or Gen 3.5?
Year is the fastest check. Model years 2021, 2022, and 2023 are Gen 3. Model years 2024 and newer are Gen 3.5. If you're cross-shopping used trucks and the year isn't visible, look at the front grille and headlights, Gen 3.5 has subtle revisions to both. The Raptor R Gen 3.5 also gets the Avalanche Gray exclusive paint and the new Shelter Green Metallic option.
