2023 FORD F-150 REVIEW

When you think “pickup truck” the one that probably comes to mind is the Ford F-150. The perennial best-seller has evolved in the modern era with an aluminum body, turbocharged powertrains, a hybrid option, an all-electric spinoff, and all of Ford’s best tech. If you want a work truck, the entry-level XL has everything you need and nothing you don’t but move up the trim ladder and you’ll find a lengthening list of desirable features—and price tags to match, of course. For those who want to venture into the wilderness, there’s the spunky Tremor model while the upscale Platinum and Limited trims pamper occupants. The F-150 is highly capable, multi-configurable, and thoroughly competitive. In other words, it’s accomplished enough to engender the kind of loyalty that has kept it atop the sales charts year after year.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2023

Ford has added the off-road-oriented Rattler trim to the F-150 lineup for 2023. Based on the XL FX4, the Rattler adds unique 18-inch wheels, a dual-exhaust system, hill-descent control, a locking rear differential, and an off-road suspension system along with distinctive rattle-snake-inspired logos throughout the design. The Rattler’s positioning in the F-150 lineup provides a more affordable option for buyers who want additional off-road capability but don’t want to shell out for the more expensive Tremor or Raptor models.

PRICING

XL – Starting at $35,580

XLT – Starting at $43,685

Rattler – Starting at $46,100

Heritage Edition – Starting at $52,800

Lariat – Starting at $59,035

Tremor – Starting at $62,855

King Ranch – Starting at $64,560

Platinum – Starting at $65,950

Raptor – Starting at $78,380

Limited – Starting at $85,850

ENGINE, TRANSMISSION & PERFORMANCE

The 2023 F-150 is available with several engines—a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6; a 400-hp 5.0-liter V-8; a 325-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6; a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6; and a 250-hp 3.0-liter diesel V-6. No matter which engine you choose, the F-150 comes paired with a 10-speed automatic. For the first time, the F-150 is also offered with a hybrid powertrain. Ford claims that the new 400-hp hybrid powertrain—which consists of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6, a 35-kW electric motor, and a 10-speed automatic transmission—will offer up to 700 miles of driving range per tank and can also power an onboard generator for keeping the power flowing at job sites or during power outages. Buyers will be able to choose between rear- and four-wheel drive with any of the F-150’s available powertrains. The Tremor model promises the most off-road capability; it offers 33-inch all-terrain tires, an upgraded suspension, a locking rear differential, and a four-wheel drive transfer case borrowed from the mighty F-150 Raptor.

TOWING & PAYLOAD CAPACITY

While the base 3.3-liter V-6 engine’s towing capacity maxes out at 8200 pounds, models equipped with the 400-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 can tow up to 14,000 pounds. Going with the venerable 5.0-liter V-8 means the maximum towing capacity is 13,000 pounds; the diesel V-6 is capable of up to 12,100 pounds and the hybrid model can tow up to 12,700. Payload capacity ranges from 1840 to 3250 pounds.

INTERIOR, COMFORT & CARGO

Interior appointments in the F-150 nearly match the Ram 1500’s deluxe cabin, particularly in the Ford’s higher-end King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited models. Premium materials are used throughout, and the cabin is dotted with plenty of storage cubbies. Additional convenience features are intended to make things easier for those who use the F-150 as a mobile workspace. For example, the 10-speed automatic shift lever can be folded flat with the center console to create a large flat workspace. Similarly, the F-150 can be ordered with fold-flat front seats that can provide a place for sleeping. Passenger space is generous, with the four-door crew-cab body style being the most spacious and family-friendly of the bunch. Out back, the F-150’s bed and an optional onboard generator provide up to 7.2-kW of power to support electricity needs at the job site or tailgate parties.

INFOTAINMENT & CONNECTIVITY

Ford provides an 8.0-inch infotainment display as standard that runs an improved version of the brand’s Sync 4 software, while a much larger 12.0-inch unit is optional. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, as is a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, SiriusXM radio, and a Bang & Olufson stereo system are optional. Sync 4’s new software provides over-the-air updates for future software releases, traffic-and-weather updates via the optional navigation system, and onboard telematics for fleet customers to help track vehicle location and usage.

SAFETY & DRIVER-ASSISTANCE FEATURES

Ford offers a host of driver-assistance features, but few are standard. More features are available as buyers walk up through the F-150’s trim levels, including a rear-facing camera for monitoring a trailer while on the go.

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

WARRANTY & MAINTENANCE COVERAGE

The F-150 comes with three years or 36,000 miles of bumper-to-bumper coverage and five years or 60,000 miles of powertrain protection.

CONCLUSION

The Ford F-150’s updated interior and features enhance the best attributes of a modern pickup: power, efficiency, comfort, and capability. Add to that a huge range of configurations and options, and you’ve got a highly appealing light-duty pickup. Whether you’re looking for a workhorse, an upscale everyday family vehicle, or an off-road adventurer this truck can do it all.