Here’s What Each of the 2017 Ford Raptor’s Six Drive Modes Does

It’s designed for high-speed desert running with AWD in 4 High, the AdvanceTrac system more liberated, and throttle mapping adjusted for more linear power and improved throttle response.

If you’re been living under a rock for the a year ago or so then it’s possible you’ve missed the fact that Ford has an all-new Raptor coming as a 2017 model – which is part of the reason Ford didn’t offer Raptor in 2016.

When road conditions are less than ideal, weather mode inspires confidence without compromising driving pleasure. Normal is for, er, normal conditions, while Weather adjusts throttle response, shifting, traction control, and the four-wheel system for slippery roads.

While Sport Mode in the current F150 pickups is activated through the Tow/Haul button, the new Raptor has a button on the steering wheel which works in conjunction with the driver information center. AdvanceTrac, while throttle response and the shift schedule are dialed down to provide maximum grip.

Moving further off-road, there is a mud and sand mode with light steering, a locked rear differential and permanent four-wheel drive for easier trail-driving, while rock crawl puts the auto in low range, locks the electronic differential and cuts electronic interference so drivers have full control over proceedings.

The mud/sand setting is created to take on challenging off-road terrain. Steering in this setting is set to comfort to make it less jarring over rough trails.

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Low speed rock crawl mode places the truck in 4 Low and engages the electronic locking differential while AdvanceTrac is also summoned to help take on the rocks. All of this is meant to smooth out power delivery and control inputs, which is important for maintaining traction on loose surfaces. It puts the truck in 4 High and engages the electronic locking differential. As expected, Baja and Rock Crawl are the most extreme modes for off-road junkies. Throttle and transmission settings are mapped for the greatest control, and the camera located on the front bumper can be kept on at speeds of up to 15 miles per hour so drivers can see exactly what they’re driving over.