Front differential, front camera added for the 2012 Ford Raptor

A front camera for a better view of rock crawling and a new Torsen front differential are the key changes for the 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor.

Those additions will help even the most extreme off-road drivers. Additionally, the truck will have new side-body graphics, a new interior accent color and the option of cooled seats in the luxury package.

The new differential will help with grip up front and should improve the truck's capability on steep grades and over obstacles. With the Torsen setup, an internal helical gearset directs torque to the wheel with the most traction. The system has a torque bias ratio of 2.5:1 to help multiply twist from wheel to wheel.

Ford and Torsen worked together with the traction-control team to enhance the brake traction-control system. Ford says the system passed a unique 1,000-mile off-road torture test.

Special modifications had to be made for the differential's use on the truck. A redesigned case was created to handle the Raptor's high-torque output.

"The system is key for letting Raptor customers tackle new ground in their truck," said Kerry Baldori, Ford SVT global performance vehicle chief functional engineer. "Its extreme capability lends itself well to rock-climbing situations."

The front camera will also be crucial in off-road situations. The patent-pending system makes its debut on the truck and uses the eight-inch navigation screen to display the view from the front bumper. It will help drivers see directly in front of the vehicle, which will help with tire placement, especially on steep inclines. Ford says it could take the place of a spotter when trucking through deep mud or extremely rough terrain.

The front camera can be ordered with the navigation system and only works at speeds of less than 15 mph. The lens is mounted in the grille and includes a dedicated washer function activated by a stalk on the steering column.

The 2012 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor continues with the 6.2-liter V8 producing 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. Off-road prowess comes from the triple-bypass shocks from Fox, while 35-inch BFGoodrich tires soak up the rest of the bumps.

By Jake Lingeman