Ford has played the aluminum card once again for its redesigned 2017 F-150 Raptor, which uses aluminum alloy in the body to shave 500 pounds from the truck's weight.

While fuel economy figures aren't available just yet, the re-engineered Raptor could feature improved mileage similar to the updated F-150 pickup recently launched with a newly aluminum body.

What is it?

Touted as the Dearborn, Mich.-based automaker's toughest off-roading pickup, the Raptor sits 6 inches wider than the standard F-150.

"When we created the first Raptor, we set out to prove vehicle performance isn't just measured on the street or at the track--off-road can be even more fun," Raj Nair, Ford group vice president of global product development, said in a statement. "The original Raptor plus enhancements on the all-new F-150 set the bar for us to make the all-new Raptor better in every way."

What's new?

Besides being 500 pounds lighter, the 2017 Raptor will have plenty of updates, including new 17-inch wheels; its first dual exhaust; new all-wheel drive; and calibration changes for improved performance. The interior has added comfort and includes three color options.    

Most fascinating feature?

The updated off-roader, which will be manufactured at the Dearborn truck plant, gets a second-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine that will be exclusive to Raptor in the F-150 lineup.

While Ford hasn't given specifications, it says the new powertrain will include an all-new 10-speed transmission to top the power and efficiency of the current 6.2-liter V8, which produces 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque.

Can I buy it?

The new Raptor is expected in dealerships for fall 2016.

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