By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Ford Media Center
The all-new 2017 Ford F-350 Series Super Duty brings the toughest, and most capable Super Duty ever it raises the bar with best-in-class towing, hauling and engine power, and adds class exclusive technologies that improve driver confidence and ease of towing.
Capability
The 2017 Ford F-350 Series Super Duty is pure Ford throughout the vehicle, with a quiet, refined interior distinguished by exceptional materials and a commanding exterior presence, one of the most unique new feature is a vertical placement of the model name in the functional fender vents; Another available features is the Ford’s Tough Bed spray-in liner, as well as an LED bed lighting system, the latest version of the tailgate step, and the new Box Link storage and cleat system.
One important aspect of the stronger frame and bigger axles, especially to those who tow, is that all the factory tow ratings on every model across the lineup are vastly improved. A properly equipped F-350 has a max gooseneck tow rating of 32,000 pounds, a max fifth-wheel tow rating of 27,500 pounds and a max conventional tow rating of 21,000 pounds.
These class-leading numbers are due to a reconfigured rear frame section, which offers a h stronger 2.5-inch and 3-inch hitch option for HD buyers. The new hitches are much stronger than the previous designs that Ford no longer recommends weight-distributing trailer hitches to any of its Super Duty buyers.
The optional Ford-designed, Ford-built 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel V8 produces best-in class 925 lb.-ft. of torque and 440 horsepower. The standard 6.2-liter V8 engine produces best in-class 430 lb.-ft. of torque and 385 horsepower. Both diesel and gas engines are backed by a TorqShift six-speed automatic with Select Shift for reliable and efficient cross-country towing.
Interior
For 2017, the Super duty features an 8-inch productivity display screen between the tachometer and speedometer, center stack and console design, details such as a six-switch bank of auxiliary controls in the overhead console gives the cab a modern look, a clever sliding cup holder converts from open space to an extra set of drink holders. Other features include adaptive front steering, Trailer Reverse Guidance, improved multi contour seats and multiple secure options for storage.
The redesigned Super Duty is how loaded with technology. These upgrades feature up to seven high-resolution cameras. A forward-facing camera in the grille, side-view cameras in the mirror bases, and a new camera in the tailgate work together to provide the 360-Degree View with Split-View system. A new third brake light camera is available over the bed to make hooking up a gooseneck or fifth-wheel trailer easier.
In addition, a forward-facing camera at the top of the windshield provides lane departure warnings and facilitates a towing-friendly adaptive cruise control a feature that is now incorporated into the exhaust brake, transmission, and service brakes for outstanding downhill speed control. Ford’s new Super Duty is now equipped with blind spot monitoring and tire pressure monitoring will now have the ability to monitor trailer tire pressure.
Summary
There’s an elevation in design and materials in the 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty interior reflects Ford precision in craftsmanship, while features such as multiple USB ports and seats designed for long-haul comfort are thoughtful elements.
Manufacturer’s suggested starting retail price is $46,685.00, for the 2017 Super Duty Ford F-350 DRW Crew Cab, the one I drove included: LT275/70R185E All Terrain, 3.31 Electronic Locking Axle, All Weather Floor Mats, Navigation System, Electronic Shift on the Fly, Back Glass Defrost, Powerscope Trailer Two Mirror, Blind Spot Info System, Trans Power Take-off Provision, Trailer TPMS/Cust PLACE CAM, Led Box Lighting, Upfitter Switches, Remote Start System, Tailgate Step, Tough Bed Spray Bedliner, Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera, Cloth 40.20.40 Seat, Manual Regen, and the XLT Premium, FX4 Offroad, 5th Wheel Hitch and the XLT Assistance Packages, and it came in at $58,615.00 including destination charge.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
