2023 F-150 Rattler is Ford's entry-level 4x4 truck

Rattler joins Tremor and Raptor as an F-150 off-road variant

The world's best-selling pickup truck is shedding its skin on the trail.

It's no secret that Ford likes to name its special models after cold-blooded reptiles. Back then, they had the Mustang Supersnake, and currently, they have the Raptor. This time, their back-to-basics 4X4 is named the Rattler.

Essentially, the F-150 Rattler was based on the entry-level XL series, but with the added off-road capability of the FX4. It has standard four-wheel drive with an electronic rear locking differential, skid plates, hill descent control, and off-road-tuned shock absorbers. This makes the new variant sit below the Tremor and Raptor in the F-150's off-road-oriented lineup.

But that's not to say the Rattler is barebones in the looks department. The “Rattler” decal has rattlesnake-inspired graphics at the back, and there's also some unique badging on the fender vents. In addition, Ford fitted the pick-up truck with a dual exhaust system, and 18-inch wheels wrapped in rugged all-terrain tires.

Inside, despite being an entry-level model, the F-150 Rattler gets black upholstery with burnished bronze accents and contrast stitching. This gives it a more upscale look over the usual utilitarian single-color interior seen on base models.

Powertrain options on the Rattler were not disclosed by Ford. However, one quick look at the base F-150 XL with FX4 package spec sheet reveals the Rattler could have the 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine with 325 HP and 542 Nm of torque or even the 5.0-liter V8 that has 400 HP and 555 Nm of torque. Both engines could likely be paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Eight exterior paint colors will be offered for the Rattler. Those are the Avalanche, Rapid Red TriCoat, Oxford White, Iconic Silver, Carbonized Gray, Antimatter Blue, Stone Gray, and Agate Black.

The 2023 F-150 Rattler will go on sale in the USA by Fall 2022, while official pricing is yet to be announced.