The new F-150.
Tradespeople have a few mantras they follow to do the job right: work smarter, not harder; use the right tool for the job; measure twice, cut once. Sure, they're tough, but they also use their heads, because whatever they do – farmer, carpenter, oil worker – mistakes not only affect their bottom line, but also their reputation.
And when it came to redesigning the best-selling pickup truck in North America – as well as the best-selling vehicle in Canada – Ford listened to the smart ones. The new F-150 unveiled here, and due in showrooms in November, is tougher, but is also packed with technology designed specifically for the job site.
Much has been said about the all-aluminum cab and bed, unprecedented in this segment. But that body, held together with rivets and adhesive, has helped shave more than 300 kilograms and gives the truck a lower centre of gravity, making it more driveable, on road and off. It also means the F-150 has the highest payload and tow rating in its class and better fuel economy – up to 20 per cent better than the last model, says Ford. Aluminum is more dent-resistant than steel and doesn't rust. And if you have any more doubts, Ford has put the new F-150 through 16-million kilometres of testing on real job sites and in simulations. That body and box sit on a redesigned ladder frame with 75 per cent high-strength steel.
The Super Cab has a flat floor in the back and no B-pillar, making loading easier. There are now lights in the bed, and the lockable tailgate drops down with the key fob. Full LED lights are available, including a set located in each mirror to illuminate areas at the sides of the truck. A four-camera, bird's-eye-view system lets you see the ground all around the pickup; handy for off-road articulation. There's more, and it's all packed into a truck that rides quieter than the last and is as close to driving a car as you can find in a big pickup.
Also new is a 2.7-litre, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6, to complement the base 3.5-litre V-6, a 3.5-litre EcoBoost V-6 and a 5.0-litre V-8. Ford expects the 3.5-litre EcoBoost and the V-8 to be the big sellers, but don't discount the 2.7-litre; the smooth-running mill punches way above its 283 hp.
Four years of design, testing and hard work from Ford has paid off; this F-150 sets the standard for large pickups, and there's no reason to think it won't stay at the top of the food chain.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
You'll like this vehicle if ... you need a truck to work as hard and as smart as you do.
TECH SPECS
- Price range: $21,399-$66,999
- Engines: 3.5-litre V-6, 2.7-litre EcoBoost, 3.5-litres EcoBoost, 5.0-litre V-8
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Fuel economy (litres/100 km): No official figures, but we averaged 11.7
- Alternatives: Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Dodge Ram, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan
RATINGS
- Looks: A formidable but sophisticated presence on the road.
- Interior: Much nicer than the last, with better and more varied materials and improved ergonomics. The premium models are downright luxurious.
- Performance: The new 2.7-litre EcoBoost is a perfect all-around engine for the F-150; for serious towing, go for the 3.5-litre EcoBoost
- Technology: This pickup has enough electronic aids and features to make Mercedes envious.
- Cargo: An innovative Boxlink tie-down system and LED lights make the bed more functional. Plus, there’s the added convenience of the Super Cab’s lack of a B-pillar and a centre console box so large it could fit a small child.
The Verdict
9.5
Ford has substantially moved the bar for the pickup segment; its competition will struggle to keep up.
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