2016 Ford F-150 First Drive
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2016 Ford F-150 Review: America's Best-Selling Truck
Overview of the Ford F-150
The F-150 is the star of Ford’s F-Series lineup, a range that began in 1948 and has been in production ever since. Currently in its thirteenth generation, the F-150 has earned its title as America’s Best-Selling Truck, having found over 33 million homes worldwide since its inception. Competing in the lifestyle pickup segment, the F-150 goes head-to-head against fellow American rivals, the Chevrolet Silverado and Dodge Ram.
Exterior Features
The F-150 made headlines when it previewed its latest form in 2013 at the Detroit Auto Show. The concept of an aluminum body on a work truck surprised automotive journalists and the public alike. Contrary to popular belief, however, the thirteenth generation model turned out to be the strongest and most durable F-150 to date, a fact well represented by its muscular bodywork.
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Interior Design
The cabin of the 2016 Ford F-150 embodies Ford’s Built Tough image with large, chunky controls, favoring substance over style. Following the Living Life King Sized mantra, the F-150 features oversized door handles, a large center armrest, and spacious seats, all blending seamlessly into the expansive interior.
Performance and Drive
Ford’s EcoBoost engines are celebrated as engineering marvels, and it’s no surprise, as they truly shine in performance. The F-150 offers three engine options:
- A naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 with 292 horsepower.
- A naturally aspirated V8 producing 385 horsepower.
- An EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 that also delivers 385 horsepower.
With the aluminum-alloy body reducing weight by 700 pounds, the F-150 feels nimble and agile, ready to tackle any challenge. Combined with 420Nm of torque, the EcoBoost engine stands out as the most powerful option in the lineup. Further enhancing its off-road capabilities, the FX4 off-road package includes an electronically locking rear axle, skid plates, and off-road tuned shocks, making the F-150 a formidable vehicle off the beaten path.
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Verdict
The F-150 took a bold step by experimenting with turbocharged engines and an aluminum-alloy body in a segment that isn’t particularly known for innovation. While this decision may have initially surprised many, the truth is that the F-150 is securing its place in automotive history for decades to come. As we celebrate the thirteenth generation model today, here’s to another thirteen, Ford!
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