An all new Ford F-150 pickup truck is here.
The latest iteration of the iconic work truck, has been endowed with the latest technology.
The all new truck, has an all aluminum body mounted to a steel frame. This combination has helped the F-150 shed close to 700lbs, making it a more efficient vehicle.
Among the new tech available, is adaptive cruise control, smart towing module, multi-contour seats, active park assist, 360-degree camera and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert.
What struck me was the Smart Towing module. This system has what Ford calls Dynamic Hitch Assist.
This valuable tool for those who tow trailers, enables the driver to hook-up to a trailer hitch without a spotter, much to the relief of rain soaked wives and girl friends every where.
Using the rearview camera and a digital line, based on steering wheel angle, on the screen, the system tells the driver whether they should adjust to the left or right.
Another valuable function of the Smart Towing Module is, it informs the driver of any burnt out bulbs on the trailer. No more rainy day light checks.
For the jobber, the new F-150 has 400 watt/110v outlets in the cab allowing battery packs to be charged. The door mirrors have LED spot lights for late clean ups, or puddle avoidance.
The available BoxLink system, features innovative ways to secure loads in the bed.
As for improved capability, the 2015 F-150 can tow up to 1100 lbs more and haul up to 530 more lbs, depending on engine choice. That brings the max tow rating to 12,200 lbs and a max hauling weight of 3,300 lbs.
The difference between towing and hauling; towing is total trailer weight and hauling is weight found within the truck and truck bed.
4×2 models with the 2.7L Eco-boost engine have EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
In Canada that’s 12.4 L/100km city, 9.0 L/100km highway, and 10.7 L/100km combined.
The 2.7L Eco-boost V6 engine is good for 325 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. This engine, with a 4×2 drivetrain, will more than meet the needs of 90% of the owners and is capable of towing up to 8,500 lbs.
In all you can choose one of four engines, in addition to the 2.7L you can have a:
• 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost engine that delivers 420 lb.-ft. of torque and 365 hp, enough to enable towing of up to 12,200 lbs – more than enough to handle a fully loaded, three-horse trailer or large boat. It has a maximum payload rating of 3,180 lbs.
• 5.0-liter V8 with improved power and efficiency, delivering 385 hp and 387 lb.-ft. of torque, can tow a maximum of 11,100 lbs, and payload of 3,300 lbs.
• 3.5-liter V6 with twin independent variable camshaft timing: produces 283 hp and 255 lb.-ft. of torque with a maximum payload of 1,910 lbs and maximum tow rating of 7,600 lbs.
The F-150 has been the best selling light duty pick-up in America for 37 years straight and a best selling vehicle for 32 years.
The all new Ford F-150 looks to be the best again.