YouTuber TheSketchMonkey reviews the V6 Ecoboost Raptor and discusses why it makes a lot more sense than the Raptor R and the TRX.

The Sketch Monkey (real name: Marouane Bembli) is well known for his car render videos, in which he creates and talks his viewers through the redesign of popular performance cars and pickup trucks.

After years of digitally modernizing and modifying vehicles on his YouTube channel, he knows a good vehicle design when he sees it. In his latest video, he is visiting Denver, Colorado to take a close look at the Ford F-150 Raptor EcoBoost V6. He gives his expert opinion on its design, build quality, performance, and why he thinks it’s better to go for this model over the more expensive Raptor R or the Ram TRX.

The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor EcoBoost V6

Marouane explains in this video that he has recently considered buying a new 2023 Ram TRX but wanted to see how this new Ford truck compares before parting with so much money. At approximately $80,000, both trucks will make your wallet considerably lighter. Compared to the top-of-the-line Ford F-150 Raptor R, the base Raptor V6 comes in at about $30,000 cheaper.

This model comes with a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 with an output of 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque and will go from 0-60 mph in around 5.5 seconds. The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor truck comes fitted with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a host of other high-level features.

The Sketch Monkey appraises the design of this 2023 Ford pickup truck and is clearly enamored by its external aesthetic. At the front end, the unmistakable Ford lettering in the front grille, the amber marker lights with seamless integration into the fascia, and the front fender flares are a few features he appreciates. There is a steel bumper for off-road use, but he isn’t a fan of the fog lights that look like an afterthought.

The high-quality design of this Ford F-150 Raptor V6 continues in the profile view. There are vents on the front wing, body contours flow around the shape of the truck, solid Raptor side steps, and the dipping front windows format aids the driver when off-road.

The interior is roomy, has most of the features you’d expect in an expensive modern vehicle, and feels luxurious for a truck. Both the infotainment and cluster screens are 12” and have impressive resolution and user interface.

Finally, Marouane fires the engine and brings this monstrous Ford for a spin. He says the F-150 sounds more like a sports car as he floors the accelerator, and he claims it feels sporty too, despite being only a V6.

While he admits it won’t sound as good as a V8, Marouane is really impressed with the Ecoboost’s sound and overall performance. It’s certainly good enough to dissuade him from investing in a Ram TRX pickup truck or even the more expensive Ford F-150 Raptor R.