With the launch of the redesigned F-150, Ford broke all of the rules for pickup trucks. From its much-touted aluminum construction -- shaving about 700 pounds from the old model -- to available small-displacement twin-turbo V6 engines promising the power of V8s but with better fuel economy, Ford shook things up in a category not known for innovation. It bet the farm on the biggest-selling vehicle in America.
The weight-loss program and high-tech wizardry under the hood pay off with an impressive 17 mpg overall fuel economy from the 2.7-liter turbo V6. The F-150's 2.7- and beefier 3.5-liter turbo-V6 engines provide plenty of punch even at low revs, with quick acceleration and effortless towing ability. Powerwise, you won't miss a V8.
Still, old-school truckers can relax. A 385-hp, 5.0-liter V8 is also available. While it has the traditional V8 rumble, the two turbo V6 engines have more torque. The 3.5 turbo is actually the best choice for towing, with a max rating of 11,500 pounds. Rounding out engine options is the base, non-turbocharged 282-hp, 3.5-liter V6. All powerplants are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Inside, our tested crew-cab models had cavernous room front and rear and both were almost tomb-silent. The driving position is comfy and roomy though the standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and optional power-adjustable pedals accommodate truckers of all shapes and sizes. Large windows and relatively narrow pillars provide good visibility, but a rear camera costs extra. It should be standard equipment, given the pickup's blind zone behind the back bumper.
A wide range of trim levels and option packages let buyers choose anything from a hose-it-out fleet special to a posh, leather-lined interior with luxury-car comforts. Our tested midlevel 3.5 trim was as plush as a typical mid-grade family sedan. Lots of clever features, including a tailgate ladder and side mirror spotlights, make work and play easier.
Despite the revolutionary new structure, the F-150 driving experience falls flat. Bearing in mind we were testing a truck, the steering was nonetheless vague and slow to respond and the ride was fidgety and unsettled, even on relatively smooth surfaces. Keeping within your lane on rural back roads requires paying close attention. A wide turning circle doesn't help with parking. Typical for the class, the F-150 also lost points for long stopping distances.
However, the F-150 gains ground in two crucial respects. Crash-test results for the crew cab were top-notch, including the difficult IIHS small overlap front test.