2017 FORD RAPTOR: Ford has raised the bar when it comes to hulking, chiseled-bodied pickup trucks with the release of the all-new 2017 Ford Raptor lineup. If you don't want to wait to fall 2016 to see the all-new Raptor, then be among the first to witness it on display in the Windy City during the Feb.13-21, 2016 Chicago Auto Show. Available in the 133-inch wheelbase extended-cab SuperCab and the SuperCrew with a 145-inch wheelbase, the Raptor styling and engineering was infused with the DNA of the fastest off-road trophy trucks, especially Baja race winners. Ford's second-generation high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost comes standard, and although it's smaller in size than the current 411-horsepower 6.2L V-8, the twin-turbocharged, direct fuel injected V-6 produces between 450-500-hp with greater efficiency. Backing up the power plant is an all-new 10-speed transmission and four-wheel-drive, torque-on-demand transfer case. The blend of new technologies proves very beneficial by providing more power, efficiency and ease when driving off-road. Advanced materials used to construct the 2017 models include high-strength steel and high-strength, military grade and aluminum alloy. All of which knocked off 500 pounds compared to the earlier Raptor. For its size, the Raptor is incredibly agile, tough, versatile, more spacious and possibly the smartest F-150 Raptor ever. As expected, the F-150 Raptor provides passengers with more leg room and comfort on the trails and more space to stow gear while exploring the wilderness. Nice exterior touches are the first-ever dual exhaust on an F-150 Raptor and unique 17-inch wheels with next-generation BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires created for off-road trekking. While at the show, ask the Ford representatives about the standard FOX Racing Shox with custom internal bypass technology that works to damp and stiffen suspension travel over rough terrain, which helps prevent the truck from bottoming out. Both the front and rear shock canisters have increased from 2.5 inches to 3 inches in diameter for improved performance and allow more suspension travel than the current Raptor's 11.2 inches at the front and 12 inches at the rear. The all-new F-150 Raptor will be built at the Dearborn truck plant and goes on sale in the fall of 2016 in the U.S. and Canada.