2023 Ford F-150 Rattler Debuts As An Affordable Off-Road Pickup With Standard Four-Wheel Drive
The Ford F-150 Raptor has developed a cult-like following, but its $68,675 price tag puts it out of reach for most consumers.
While the automaker has already introduced more affordable off-road focused trucks including the F-150 Tremor, they’re moving into entry-level territory with the new F-150 Rattler.
Designed to appeal to “adventure-seeking customers looking for a stylish truck with standard four-wheel drive,” the model is based on the F-150 XL and features a lightly revised exterior with rattlesnake-inspired graphics as well as fender vents with “F-150 Rattler” badging. They’re joined by a dual exhaust system and black 18-inch aluminum wheels that are wrapped in rugged all-terrain tires. Customers can choose from an assortment of exterior colors including Avalanche, Antimatter Blue, Agate Black, Carbonized Gray, Stone Gray, Iconic Silver, Oxford White, and Rapid Red TriCoat.
The styling updates continue in the cabin as designers applied burnished bronze trim to the center console, dashboard, and door panels. The desert theme is further enhanced by Onyx seats with burnished bronze accents and stitching.
On the off-road side of the equation, the F-150 Rattler comes equipped with skid plates, specially tuned shocks, and an electronic locking rear differential. Buyers will also find hill descent control to help them easily manage steep slopes.
According to Ford truck group marketing manager Todd Eckert, “Our new F-150 Rattler offers aspiring adventurers an off-road option with expressive looks and capability in one package.” He added the model “builds off the F-150 off-road legacy while allowing us to introduce new customers to the right blend of styling and value in the F-150 lineup.”
Ford didn’t mention performance specifications, but the 2022 F-150 XL features a 3.3-liter V6 developing 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and 265 lb-ft (359 Nm) of torque. However, customers can opt for an assortment of other engines including a 325 hp (242 kW / 330 PS) 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 and a 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS) 5.0-liter V8.
The 2023 F-150 Rattler will go on sale this fall and pricing will be announced closer to launch. That being said, the F-150 XL currently begins at $29,990 so the Rattler should be relatively affordable.
