If you are in the market, Ford offers something for everyone. There are eight
different trim levels, up to the primo new Platinum Series, three cab styles and
three V8 engines, married either to a four-speed or a new six-speed automatic
tranny (the powerplants are either 5.4 liter, three-valve; 4.6-liter,
three-valve; or 4.6-liter, two valve). All that plus improved towing capacity.
My Lariat rumbled with aplomb around the dirt roads of Detroit's eastern
'burbs, and didn't seem sluggish at all - despite its heft - on the highway.
Available features on the all-new truck include a hideaway side step for
bed access, a tailgate step, a nifty cargo management system crafted to secure
parcels, lockable storage and a bed extender. Ford also offers Ford's Sync
voice-activated system, a capless fuel filler, MP3 player control unit, a
voice-activated navigation system that features up-to-minute traffic info, a
rearview camera and spiffier sound system.
And dovetailing with a recent drop in pump prices, Ford claims its 2009
beast offers 8 percent more in fuel economy across the entire lineup.
My only grousing has to do with some interior appointments; my model had
a busy dash that featured faux wood, brushed metal and vinyl (and downscale, to
boot). Too much patchwork for my tastes. Other than that, there's more rear
legroom and storage space.
Exterior cosmetics, including 20-inch wheels, make for an imposing
stance. This F-150's one big, bad brute, and it looks it.
Base stickers range from $21,320 to $44,415.
