Ford F-150
Ford F-150
Ford F-150
Ford F-150
Ford F-150The 2011 Ford F-150 ranks 3 out of 8 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Ford F-150, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
With a range of all-new engines, reviewers say the 2011 Ford F-150 deserves to continue its reign as America’s best-selling pickup.
When it comes to trucks, unveiling a whole new set of powertrains may as well be as important as a full redesign. After all, trucks need enough power to (literally) pull their weight – and then some. The F-150 was redesigned in 2009, but continued to use engines that could be traced back to the previous generation F-150. That changes for 2011.
This year the F-150 gets two new V6 engines as well as one new V8. Additionally, a 6.2-liter V8 that was first seen last year as an option in the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is now the top end engine in the base F-150 as well. On the whole, reviewers say the new engines give the F-150 an edge, providing ample power and good fuel economy.
Beyond the new engines, reviewers have only positive things to say about the 2011 Ford F-150. They say it’s a capable truck with a ride that’s comfortable around town and a well-built interior with available high-tech options.
Other Trucks to Consider
Though the 2011 Ford F-150 receives a lot of praise, buyers should also look at the Chevrolet Silverado and Dodge Ram. The Silverado is available in a fuel-efficient Hybrid model and regular Silverado trucks start out $1,565 cheaper than the base F-150. Reviewers also say the Ram, with its coil sprung rear suspension, offers a more comfortable ride. The Ram also starts at a bit over $1,000 less than the F-150.
Details: Ford F-150
The 2011 Ford F-150 is available in 11 different trims, not including the different cab configurations (regular, extended or crew), bed lengths (5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, or 8 feet), or engine choices (two V6’s and two V8’s).
For 2011 the F-150 comes with a slew of new engines. A base 3.7-liter V6 produces 302-horsepower and a 5.0-liter V8 with 360-horsepower are the two bottom rung engines. Surprisingly positioned above the 5.0-liter V8, Ford is introducing a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower. F-150s equipped with the twin-turbo mill are capable of towing 11,300 pounds, just as much as the top line 411-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. Off-road oriented SVT Raptor, luxurious Lariat Limited and special Harley-Davidson edition F-150s come standard with the 6.2-liter V8. All models receive a six-speed automatic transmission.
Other changes include a 4.2-inch LCD display in the gauge cluster that displays information about fuel economy, towing and off-roading. A new three-point safety belt now rests in the middle passenger position of bench-seat equipped F-150’s. Driver’s also benefit from integrated spotters mirrors in the side mirrors.
Be sure to check out this month's best Ford Deals, where we have done the research to get you the best offer.
- " The F-150 is a strong competitor and a must-see for those shopping full-size pickups"
- "If you want a truck with serious towing and payload capabilities, yet as quiet and comfortable as many luxury sedans, then the F-150 should surely be on your shopping list." –
- " It's not easy to design a pickup truck that can do heavy work and still maintain the smooth ride, lack of noise and upscale interior that many non-work owners demand. Ford has succeeded in both areas." --
- "Ford has a version of the F-150 to meet almost any buyer's needs." --
- "All said, though, the F-150 is still one of the most appealing trucks on the market thanks to its user-friendly features and pleasant driving dynamics. The question is whether you need or want more oomph than the Ford can provide." --
