Episode 3: 2017 Ford Raptor Web Video Series is All About Terrain Management and Baja Mode

2017 ford raptor baja terrain mode
2017 Ford Raptor

We are now half-way through the 2017 Ford Raptor web video series, presented by Ford. The series is all about explaining the key aspects of the new truck before it officially goes on sale in the fall of 2016.

This episode focuses on the new terrain management system in the next generation Raptor. It offers six distinct driving modes for the driver to select from. The driver still has the option to turn all traction and stability control systems off, which will be most welcomed by experienced drivers.

Here are the six driving modes. Notice that the tow/haul mode is not part of this system.

Normal
This is meant for regular daily on-road driving. It finds a balance between performance and comfort.

Sport
This is for getting more fun and performance from your on-road drive. Ford says: “Sport mode increases throttle response and provides a sportier steering feel – along with quicker shifting. The transmission holds gears longer to keep you in the power band.”

Weather
This is also called the Snow/Wet mode and meant for slippery on-road conditions. This mode automatically engages 4WD Auto. Ford says: “AdvanceTrac, throttle response and the shift schedule are optimized for greater confidence in slippery conditions.”

Mud/Sand
This is meant for easy to moderate off-road trails that include either mud or sand. Ford says: “4WD High and the electronic locking differential automatically engage for driving over loose or soft ground, and optimized AdvanceTrac settings help Raptor keep its footing. Steering is set to comfort, which makes it easier to navigate along tight trails and over obstacles.”

2017-ford-raptor-baja-terrain-mode

Baja
This is a special mode designed solely for the 2017 Raptor. It is aimed at high-speed desert running. Ford says: “Baja mode places the vehicle in 4WD High, AdvanceTrac is programmed to the least intrusive settings, and the throttle map is adjusted for more linear power and improved engine response to give the hardcore off-road driver greater control. The transmission has quicker shifts and holds gears longer – keeping the vehicle in its power band.”

Rock Crawl
This is the mode for when the going gets really tough and rocky. Ford says: “Rock crawl prompts the driver to place the vehicle in 4WD Low, the electronic locking differential is automatically engaged and AdvanceTrac is set to the least intrusive settings for optimum rock-climbing ability. Throttle modulation and transmission response are optimized for greater control. Additionally, the front camera allows the driver to see what’s right in front of the truck, and it can be kept on at speeds up to 15 mph.”

Here is the video series schedule, according to Ford.

Get more insight into how the system works in this video from Ford.

Here is TFLtruck’s latest interview that features the 2017 Ford Raptor Super Crew from the 2016 Detroit Auto Show.

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov is an Automotive Enthusiast, Producer, Reviewer, Videographer, Writer, Software Engineer, Husband, Father, and Friend.