Traxxas Raptor R 4×4 Ultimate Edition Review

Traxxas has taken one of its most exciting platforms—the Raptor R—and given it a serious performance and durability overhaul. Enter the Raptor R 4×4 Ultimate Edition. This isn’t just a fresh paint job or a few bolt-on upgrades. It’s a total package built for high-speed bashing, massive jumps, and smart driving tech. The truck now features a powerful 4S-capable VXL system, reinforced aluminum parts, pro-grade handling updates, and a top-tier look with three stunning livery options. From wild speed runs to sandy send-offs, we put this beast to the test, and it left us grinning the entire time.

PRODUCT FEATURED
Raptor R 4×4 Ultimate Editon
By: Traxxas
Kit Type: Ready To Run 1/10 Pro Scale 4×4 Truck
Part Number: 101177-4
Launch Price: $649.99
Buy: Pre-Order At Your Local Hobby Shop
Requires: 4S LiPo Battery Pack and Charger With ID Plug, 4 AA’s
Visit: https://traxxas.com/101177-4-ford-raptor-r-4×4-vxl-ultimate 

Body
Traxxas nailed the Pro Scale look with this new Raptor R body. It’s bold, aggressive, and purpose-built for bashing. The clipless body mounting system returns, giving you easy access without fidgeting with body pins—just press and pop. Up front, you get a molded grille with chrome headlight buckets and realistic lenses, with bright LED lighting integrated into the bumpers rather than the body itself. The mirrors are molded tough and the upper cowl not only adds style but helps anchor the body securely. Unfortunately, there’s no provision for integrated tail lights, which would’ve been a great finishing touch. Still, from the Fox Racing graphics to the ultra-clean paint schemes (especially the gold and black variant), this body is a stunner on and off the shelf.

Chassis
The Ultimate Edition is built on a long-wheelbase 4×4 platform that provides excellent stability at high speeds and during big-air jumps. The chassis remains largely the same as the original Raptor R, but with a crucial update: it’s now 4S compatible. To handle taller batteries, Traxxas includes a riser post and block, plus a shorter post if you prefer to run 2S or 3S. The chassis is heavily braced for strength, and it retains the reliable 4x4 steering system. However, the included servo saver spring is on the soft side. This results in a bit of flex that affects steering response under load. We would’ve liked to see a firmer spring to maximize the upgraded steering servo’s capabilities.

Suspension (Including Wheels & Tires)
The suspension system is where the “Ultimate” designation earns its stripes. Traxxas beefed up key components across the board, starting with HD shock towers and suspension arms. The new aluminum outer caster blocks and steering knuckles are significantly more robust and house larger bearings for increased durability. GTR shocks with TiN-coated shafts and silver springs handle damping duties, and they perform beautifully—even in rough, sandy conditions. In the rear, aluminum hub carriers support HD driveshafts, and the extra travel provides great jump landing support. Wrapping up the suspension are the tried-and-true BFGoodrich tires mounted on slick black chrome wheels. The compound leans medium-firm, providing a good balance of grip and wear-resistance to match the truck’s elevated power output.

Drivetrain
Power means nothing without control, and the drivetrain in the Raptor R Ultimate Edition is built to handle the abuse. It starts with Revo-spec differentials—sealed, oil-filled, and fully metal inside and out. They’re smoother and more durable than older grease-filled designs. A standout upgrade is the new center differential, which helps distribute power more evenly, enhancing stability and reducing wheel ballooning. The HD orange driveshaft not only adds strength but ties in visually with the other anodized components. Even the motor plate gets the orange treatment, giving the entire drivetrain a coordinated, high-end feel. Overall, this setup is designed for torque, speed, and long-term reliability.

Electronics
The star of the show here is the Velineon VXL-4S power system. This combo includes a long-can brushless motor and a 4S-ready ESC with built-in telemetry and a 7.4V adjustable BEC. It delivers explosive performance, pushing the truck to a verified 64 mph in our real-world test—eclipsing Traxxas’ advertised 60+ mph target. You can still run it on 2S or 3S if you want to dial it down, especially when using the Trainer Mode built into the TQi system. The upgraded 2275 metal-gear servo features an aluminum center case and provides more precise, durable steering, though again, it’s limited by the soft servo saver. One big bonus: Traxxas includes the Link module in the box—a first. With this, you can monitor temps, voltage, and more right from your smartphone. That said, we wish the ESC came with a cooling fan out of the box, as thermal shutdown kicked in when running back-to-back battery packs in hot conditions.

What’s Included
Inside the box, you get the fully assembled Raptor R Ultimate Edition with body pre-installed, all electronics pre-mounted, and the TQi radio with Bluetooth Link module included. There are optional battery posts depending on the battery size you plan to use. What’s not included are the battery and charger, which are sold separately. If you want to hit that 64 mph mark, you’ll need a good-quality 4S LiPo pack and a charger to match.

Additional Notables
One small but fun detail is the trailer hitch molded into the rear bumper—perfect if you’ve got the Traxxas trailer or want to pull something around for kicks. Also, Traxxas has confirmed that many of the upgraded aluminum parts will be available separately, so you can outfit your other rigs with the same toughness and flair. Between the parts quality, power bump, and included tech, this Raptor R feels like a complete package for serious bashers and weekend warriors alike.

Performance Evaluation
In the sand hills—the natural playground for a truck like this—the Raptor R Ultimate Edition was in its element. It delivered wheel-lifting torque, explosive acceleration, and composed flight off jumps thanks to its refined suspension and long wheelbase. The center diff made it more manageable under throttle, reducing unwanted wheelies and allowing better steering input during cornering. Despite some steering slop caused by the soft servo saver, directional control was generally sharp. Jumping performance was top-tier. The truck stayed level in the air and absorbed harsh landings like a pro. On the speed run, it ripped up to 64 mph with confidence and stability. It’s fast, powerful, and thrilling. But after extended use, heat became a factor, reinforcing the need for optional cooling fans—especially when running 4S.

Pros and Cons
Pros:

Verified 64+ mph performance out of the box

New aluminum upgrades enhance strength and appearance

Center differential improves high-speed handling

Clipless Pro Scale body is rugged and beautiful

GTR shocks and long wheelbase = outstanding jump control

Link module + telemetry out of the box

Cons:

No cooling fan on ESC, and temps can spike quickly on 4S

Servo saver spring is too soft, limiting upgraded servo potential

No LED tail light support in the body

Battery and charger not included

Wrap-Up
The Traxxas Raptor R 4×4 Ultimate Edition is exactly what it claims to be—a more powerful, more refined, and better-equipped version of an already impressive machine. It checks nearly every box for serious RC enthusiasts: speed, strength, looks, and next-gen electronics. It isn’t perfect—heat management and steering precision could use attention—but for a basher, it’s hard to beat. If you’re looking for a 1/10 truck that can go big and take the hits, this is it. Traxxas didn’t just slap “Ultimate” on the box for marketing; they earned it with smart upgrades and serious fun.

 

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