The Ram TRX Vs The Ford Raptor: Which 2021 Model Wins?

When you want to buy a new half-ton truck model, visiting Dan Cummins CDJR, your local Lexington Ram TRX dealer, is definitely the right decision. There are many available truck models out there, but one of the most popular rivalries is between the 2021 Ram TRX and the 2021 Ford Raptor. In this Ram vs Ford battle, the real question is, “who wins?” While both trucks are impressive, and they’re part of the same class, one is more powerful than the other. We’re excited to tell you all about why the 2021 Ram TRX is clearly the better option overall.

Power and Capability

A truck can have great tech features and a stylish appeal, but it all means nothing if it doesn’t offer power. The 2021 Raptor does pack a mean punch, but when compared with the 2021 TRX, it falls behind. For example, the 2020 Raptor should be able to produce up to 450 horsepower, whereas the 2021 TRX produces a whopping 702 horsepower. While there is the potential for a more powerful Raptor engine, it would have a long jump from its 2020 configuration to match up with the 2021 TRX’s power.

In addition to these stats, the 2021 TRX comes with its own shock system that isn’t available on any other model. These Bilstein shocks use steel braided hoses to prevent overheating and corrosion, and they use a technology called “ZoneControl” to keep from bottoming out. Between the TRX’s power and impressive suspension technology, it’s the best off-roading half-ton truck on the market.

The TRX also comes with eight different drive modes to further enhance its off-roading agenda. These modes include Sport Mode – which is ideal for racing – the self-explanatory Snow Mode, Mud/Sand Mode, Rock Mode, and Baja Mode, which works well in desert and sandy conditions. Hardcore truckers can even customize a drive mode to match their preferences. In this mode, drivers can customize steering, torque, suspension, and even fuel economy range. The 2021 Raptor also offers several available drive modes, but the TRX’s Custom Mode has no equivalent on the Raptor.

Moreover, both models have almost identical towing capacities, capable of towing just over 8,000 pounds. Lastly, the 2021 TRX gets slightly better ground clearance than the 2021 Raptor, landing at 11.8 inches vs the Raptor’s 11.5. Truthfully, the only main area that the 2021 Raptor really is on the same level in is the towing capacity category. But even then, it’s only by a small margin. Technically speaking, the 2021 TRX can tow up to 8,220 pounds, whereas the 2021 Raptor can tow 8,200 pounds.

Overall, both trucks are tough, don’t doubt that. But the 2021 TRX offers an edge that nothing else can compete with: it’s the world’s most powerful half-ton pickup truck on the market. No matter what else the Raptor offers, the Ram TRX is the most powerful off-roading truck.

Exterior Appeal and Design

Aesthetic appeal is important, but exterior design isn’t just about the visuals. The 2021 Ram TRX is designed with aerodynamics in mind. When developers created the new TRX, they made changes that would enhance its performance as well as its looks. These include making the “Ram” logo larger, adding in vents, and designing the headlights with pressure areas in mind. Aerodynamic-related decisions like these help determine how well the truck performs. Thanks to Ram’s thoughtful collaboration between its exterior designers and performance teams, the Ram gets better traction, lower wind noise, and increased acceleration, to name just a few perks.

In addition to venting, the TRX has a full-sized underbody skid plate, wider fenders than ever before, and an air intake hood scoop that works with the Ram logo letters to create better engine airflow. On the flip side, the 2021 Raptor’s design includes some aerodynamic influences as well, with its hood heat extractor and side vents. However, the 2021 TRX’s front end is more innovative, minimizing the impact on the truck’s high-pressure areas.

The 2021 TRX is also very customizable. You can get official Mopar accessories for the new TRX, like light bars, cargo accessories, unique wheels, bed extenders and covers, and much more. This can all be done after you make your initial purchase, or you can ask your dealership to order these OEM customization parts. They can even install them for you if you prefer. In addition to these accessories, you can really heighten your TRX’s customization by choosing one of the TRX packages. The TRX Launch Edition packages come with over 17 unique additions, and the Level 1 and Level 2 Equipment Group packages come with even more features than that.

The 2021 Raptor’s customization features are impressive as well. More specifically, the Raptor comes with several different appearance package options. However, while these options are abundant, the packages themselves do not include nearly as many features as the TRX’s do. Unless the 2021 Raptor surprises us with some impressive and competitive package upgrades, the TRX remains the better deal when it comes to package add-ons.

Technology Features!

Trucks have been strong and capable far longer than they’ve been tech-savvy. However, thanks to modern technologies, trucks are even more capable than before. The 2021 TRX is a great example of this. For one, it offers something called “Launch Control,” which regulates your RMPs, heightening your acceleration time. This model is the first Ram truck to ever implement this feature. The 2021 TRX also comes with performance charts and a Vehicle Dynamics page which lets you adjust your transfer case settings. Here, you can also manually lock your rear or front axles.

In addition to these performance-based tech features, you’ll also get a head-up display and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon Premium Audio system, which is unique to the TRX. Your head-up display shows your speed, calls, speed limit, and anything else you customize it to show. But instead of showing up on your dash, these stats are projected onto your windshield for easier, safer viewing.

The 2021 Raptor offers technology features as well, most of which are included in FordPass connect. These include simpler additions like remote start, roadside assistance, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. While the tech features on the Raptor are abundant, this model doesn’t include nearly as much performance-related technology. While this isn’t as important on cars or SUV models, performance is the main concern when buying a truck. When we look at the 2021 TRX vs the 2021 Raptor in the tech field, the TRX is in the lead.

The Main Reasons You Should Pick the 2021 TRX Over the 2021 Raptor?

The number one reason to choose the 2021 TRX over the 2021 Raptor lies in the power imbalance. Sure, the Raptor is a capable off-roading model, but the TRX comes with a stronger engine. Plus, it offers a customizable drive mode feature, and its air intake hood scoop not only aids its performance but it makes it look better aesthetically. Moreover, the TRX comes with its own unique suspension system, and its tech performance features heighten its capability. While the 2021 Raptor is a good model, the 2021 TRX has proven itself not only competition-worthy but it is the superior truck overall. The winner of the battle between the 2021 Ram TRX vs the 2021 Ford Raptor is, without a doubt, the 2021 Ram TRX.

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