2015 Ford F-150

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Ford Media

For 2015 the Ford F-150 delivers an impressive combination of power, capability and efficiency from advanced materials that improve durability, to faster processors that enhance driving performance, to breakthrough cargo management and towing solutions.

Built Even Tougher
In designing the backbone of the F-150, Ford improved the truck’s signature fully boxed ladder frame. It is all-new with more high-strength steel making it stronger and lighter. High-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloys already used in aerospace are used throughout the F-150 body, improving dent and ding resistance and saving weight.

The 2015 Ford F-150 has been torture-tested in labs, at Ford proving grounds and in the hands of some of Ford’s most demanding truck customers for more than 10 million miles.

The grueling testing simulates the demands Ford customers will subject the truck to throughout its average lifetime. These include crisscrossing the country pulling heavy trailers and hefty loads through desert valleys and over high-altitude mountain passes in temperatures from 20 degrees below zero to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

To perform in these challenging conditions, the frame uses high-strength steel rated up to 70,000 psi stronger than the steel found in some competitors’ heavy-duty pickup truck frames. Eight through-welded cross members provide increased stiffness, while staggered rear outboard shocks help provide stability.

Front 01

Rear 01

Engines
A range of four engines provides power to meet almost any customer need. A new, available 2.7-liter EcoBoost with standard Auto Start-Stop and a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine with twin independent variable camshaft timing join the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8 engines that are available. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost features a lightweight, compact design to deliver the same power as many mid-range V8s.

Ford Auto Start-Stop technology specially tuned for truck customers shuts off the engine to save fuel when the vehicle is stopped, except when towing or in four-wheel drive mode. The engine restarts in milliseconds when the brake is released.

Ford F-150 trucks equipped with EcoBoost engines also will benefit from standard Active Grille Shutters. Active Grille Shutters stay open when extra engine cooling is needed, such as during low speed stop-and-go driving or while working in hot weather. They automatically close to reduce aerodynamic drag at cruising speed.

2015 Ford F-150 3.5-Liter EcoBoost

Interior & Exterior
The all-new Ford F-150 will continue the tradition of offering a broad selection of trim levels in the full-size pickup segment. The five available primary trims are XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch. Chrome appearance packages are available with XL, XLT, Lariat and King Ranch. Monochromatic sport appearance packages are available with XL, XLT and Lariat.

The FX4 off-road package can be added to most four-wheel-drive models, improving trail capability with an electronic locking rear axle, skid plates and off-road-tuned shocks.

Both the exterior and interior design reflect decades of listening to customers and understanding their occupational and recreational needs. The exterior is characterized by a new shape that suggests capability, with a wider Built Ford Tough stance, prominent wheel arches and chiseled grille.

Comfort, utility and refinement define the truck’s interior. Ergonomically optimized seating for front-row occupants enhances comfort, while extending legroom for rear passengers. Buttons and controls are optimized so they can be operated while wearing work gloves. Storage options include laptop stowage in the center console, as well as quick storage solutions for cell phones, drinks, pens and business cards.

Interior 01

Summary
More than ever before, customers want a truck that is a dependable partner, mobile office and a go-anywhere workshop, to meet the needs, Ford created smart new features and a whole new approach to using advanced materials and engines to improve capability and efficiency.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $54,385.00, for the 2015 Ford F150 4X4 Supercrew, the one I drove included the Equipment Group 701A (Platinum Series Package, Technology Package, Adaptive Cruise Control and Tail Gate Step), Ruby Red Metallic Tinted CC, 3.5 V6 Liter Ecoboost Engine, Twin Panel Moonroof, Trailer Tow Package, FX4 Off-Road Package, Foldable Pickup Bed Extender, Box Side Steps, 36 Gallons Extended Range Fuel Tank and Spray-In Bed Liner, and it came in at $62,720.00 including destination and delivery charges. The EPA fuel economy estimates 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Ford.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

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