Did you know that the Ford F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for 28 years and the best-selling pickup for 42 years? Now that is an accomplishment speaking volumes of this remarkable truck that can seat from three to six people.
The rear-wheel or four-wheel-drive pickup comes in several power train choices. So, take your pick. There’s the 3.3-liter V-6 engine that develops 290 horsepower @ 6500 rpm and 265 pounds-feet of torque @ 4000 rpm, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. A 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6 (twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine work in tandem with gas direct injection) puts out 325 hp @ 5000 rpm and 4000 pounds-feet of torque @ 2750 rpm; a 3.5-liter V6 but with an EcoBoost cranks 375 hp @ 5000 rpm and 470 pounds-feet of torque @ 3500 rpm or a 450 hp @ 5000 rpm and 510 pounds-feet of torque @ 3500 rpm; the sole 5.0-liter V-8 pumps 395 hp @ 5750 rpm and 400 pounds-feet of torque @ 4500 rpm; last but not least, one can say, is the all-new 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 with 250 hp @ 3250 and 440 pounds-feet of torque @ 1750 rpm. All are coupled to a 10-speed gear box.
A double wishbone front and leaf rear suspension ensures dexterity, sure-footedness and poise to the ride, irrespective of road/weather conditions. And, the rack-and-pinion, electric power steering system affords outstanding feedback. Tow capacity for the F-150, which comes in as much as seven trims (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, Limited, off-roader Raptor), peaks at an incredible 13,200 pounds. Cab styles are in regular, SuperCab (extended) and SuperCrew (crew cab), and range from 5½-foot to 8-foot beds.
Depending on the trim, cabin goodies include 10-way power heated and cooled front seats, overhead console, woodgrain-style trim, 60/40 rear bench, 8-inch display screen, dual auto a/c, leather tilt/telescopic steering wheel and an improved SYNC3 to access audio, telephone, navigation controls via a voice command, touch screen tap or button click. Well-placed storage bins and cubbies are scattered throughout. There also are numerous packages and options to fit the needs of any potential buyer.
Apart from dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes, AdvanceTrac with electronic stability control, rearview camera, antiskid system and tire pressure monitoring system, other standard safety features include auto high beams, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a rearview camera with dynamic hitch assist.
Base-priced at $28,155 (for XL), with the Lariat around $41,700 and top-level Limited for $67,135, the F-150 boasts plentiful room for cargo and passengers, admirable tow capacity backed by a vast array of forceful engines. Even the fuel economy figures (15 mpg city/26 highway) are worth a mention. No wonder the aluminum-alloy body pickup has led in sales for more than four decades in the U.S.
F-150 (XL)
Tires: 245/70R17
Wheelbase: 122.4 inches
Length: 209.3 inches
Height: 75.5 inches
Width: 79.9 inches
Fuel capacity: 24 gallons
Web site: FordOfWesleyChapel.com
Test drive the F-150 at Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel, 28739 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel. For more information, call the dealership at (813) 907-7800.
Published December 12, 2018
