2018 Ford F-250 Exterior

Structurally and visually, the 2018 Ford F-250 will carry over almost unchanged from the outgoing version.  To refresh your mind, the F-250 has a beefed chassis along with larger rails as well as cross members made of 95% high-tensile steel. The body panels, on the other hand, are made of light aluminum. Use of these materials enables the truck to tow heavier loads; it has also enhanced its performance while still making it lighter and thus more fuel-efficient.

The 2018 F-250 looks menacing with its massive two-bar grille that is flanked by C-shaped LED headlamps. Below the grille is a humongous bumper that enhances its intimidating look. The hood looks muscular. The rear has a tailgate that features prominent stamping.  The sides are characterized by huge alloy wheels that enhance the models performance enabling you to access rough terrains with ease.

Overall, the exterior of the model is a step out of the trucks styling norm as the automaker has adopted a more oval design instead of the regular square design that features sharp edges and lines. The design makes the 2018 F-250 add a somewhat elegant aura to its otherwise rugged look. Each of the trims is styled slightly different from the other.

Interior

Due to its huge size, the interior of the F-250 is usually very spacious.  The truck is offered in both regular, extended and crew cab body styles. The model has two bed length options. To offer more comfort, there is also an option for a 2+2 seating arrangement. The seats are adjustable to enable the driver and passengers to seat comfortably even in long distance travels. Every trim level features leather upholstery.  The trucks feature Ford’s latest infotainment system to ease control of various functions. The system is hosted by a large touch-screen. An HVAC system is offered as standard while in terms of safety, Ford offers a navigation system, traction control, a lane departure warning system, enhanced safety belts ABS among others as standard.

More features are available as you go higher up the trims; the trims offered are the base XL, mid XLT and Lariat trims and the top King Ranch and Platinum trims.

Engine and performance

The engines are unchanged. There are two engine options, one gasoline mill and a more powerful diesel power-plant. The gasoline mill is a 6.2 L V-8 that is capable of producing 385 horses and 430 lb-ft of torque. If you feel that you need more power, Ford readily offers you the 6.7 L turbo-diesel V-8 mill that gives you 440 horsepower and an astounding 925 lb-ft of torque. Both mills are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. RWD is standard but as you would expect, there is an option for AWD.

Models equipped with the diesel mill when fully equipped can tow as much as 18,600 pounds.

Price and release date

Ford is yet to make official the prices of the 2018 Ford F-250 trucks. According to credible sources, the truck will likely hit dealerships in late 2017. Considering not much has changed, expect the automaker to maintain the model’s price almost unchanged. I expect a starting price of around $ 34,000 for the base XL trim with the range-topping Platinum trim will attract in excess of $60,000.

Competition

Close competitors of the Ford F-250 pickup truck are the likes of Nissan Titan XD, GMC Sierra 2500HD, Ram 2500 Heavy Duty and Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD.

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2017 Shelby F-150 Super Snake Exterior

Straightaway, looking at the 2017 Shelby F-150 Super snake you can tell this is not an ordinary F-150.  Shelby has hooked it up with its traditional dual racing stripes that seem to cut the vehicle into two. There is also another stripe that stretches across the bottom part of the doors on either side. The truck also wears a Shelby as well as a Super Snake badge on the grille, engine hood, doors, tailgate and bedside panels.

The badging is Shelby’s way of ensuring no one mistakes your $100,000 truck for a regular F-150.

The grille, hood, side sills and rear bumper have been customized for the Super Snake.

The model rides on a set of chrome 22-inch Shelby alloy wheels wrapped in 305/45 performance tires for enhanced grip.  Other features include SHELBY Step Bars and painted vents and fender flares.

The model is offered in 6 factory colors to choose from.

Interior

The cabin is a “serpent’s” playground. One thing is sure; you will not mistake this model for a regular Ford truck’s cabin.  Shelby has featured its snake logos almost on all surfaces.  To start with, the model has a SHELBY CSM Serial Numbering on the dash. The center console lid carries a SHELBY Snake Badge. SHELBY Snakes are also embroidered on the headrests while the floor mats have SHELBY lettering.

The windows are deep tinted to provide your passengers with privacy from the staring eyes of onlookers as you navigate your serpent through the crowded streets.

In addition to these Shelby custom features, the model retains all the amazing convenience, comfort and practicability we are accustomed to in all F-150 trucks.

Engine and performance

Under the hood is where the model takes a huge leap from the regular F-150. The pickup truck carries a 5.0 L, V-8 mill with a supercharger. The engine produces 750 hp. Buyers can choose RWD or AWD. Shelby did not reveal the truck’s performance figures but due to the power, the truck will certainly be much quicker than its regular version. The engine is enhanced with a high-performance intake, new fuel injectors and a billet throttle body. Other performance equipment includes a carbon-fiber intake tube and a heat exchanger.

Its suspension, on the other hand, has been tuned for better handling and more balanced ride. The suspension system lowers the ride height and helps to sharpen the truck’s responsiveness. The engine is also combined with a dual Borla exhaust system that has polished tips. The system produces a sound that is sure to intimidate other road users.

Price and release date

To own this serpent, you will have to spend $96,880, adding extra options will easily see you part with over $100,000. Remember the entry-level RWD F-150 has a starting price of only $27,110 meaning almost $70,000 is for the performance extras. The price comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. There will be just 150 of the “serpents” so you better make your order now if you want to be considered. Deliveries will start in the second half of this year.

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2018 Ford F-150 Police Special Service Vehicle Exterior

Ford has barely altered the exterior of the 2018 Ford F-150 SSV compared to that of the regular models. The only additions that set the SSV from the civilian model are the decals and the lightbar. Ford, however, said that the model features advanced materials that inhibit corrosions, especially under its belly.

Interior

Unlike the civilian models, the SSV does not feature any luxury add-ons such as leather seats, heating on the seats and other luxury trappings. The cabin is very simple to ensure officers concentrate on their duties. On the inside, the truck features a 40/blank/40 vinyl bench seat at the front rather than the 40/20/40 bench on civilian models. This has allowed for extra customization of the cabin.

The standard rear bench and carpets have been replaced with a vinyl bench and also vinyl flooring respectively to ease cleaning up of the SSV. The 2018 Ford F-150 SSV will be offered in only the XL trim and in both SuperCab and SuperCrew body styles.

Engine and performance

The 2018 F-150 Police SSV shares the base engine with the 2018 Expedition SSV. The engine is a twin-turbocharged 3.5 L, EcoBoost V-6. Ford did not reveal whether this engine has been tuned for more power. In civilian models, it produces 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. However, there is an option for a more powerful engine for the truck. The unit is the 5.0 L, V-8. The V-8 is rated at 385 hp and 387 lb-ft of torque in civilian models. The two engines are paired with the automaker’s new ten-speed automatic gearbox. This transmission features an Auto Start-Stop function to help conserve fuel so that taxpayers don’t complain about the police using guzzlers.

The models are available in either RWD or AWD. In addition, the stock alternator on current models has been replaced with a 240-amp alternator that aligns well with the extra onboard electrical power and the need for extended idle times. The gear selector for the model is mounted on the steering column to create more space in the cabin. The automaker has also hooked up the model with a revised electronic limited-slip differential.

Price and release date

During the release of the F-150 SSV and the Expedition SSV, Ford did not announce how much the police and other government agencies would be paying for the upgraded SSVs. The models will be delivered to authorities in the second half of this year.

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2017 Ford F-150 Hennessey VelociRaptor Closer look at the upgrades

Excellent standard engine

In its standard form, the 2017 Ford Raptor Truck is already fitted with an impressive mill; a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost, 6-cylinder engine with a displacement of 3.5 liters. The engine produces an impressive 450 horses and 510 lb-ft of torque.  With an ECU tune that costs $695, Hennessey can tune the truck to add 30 hp and 30 lb-ft of torque. However, the performance house figured that they could make the truck even better, particularly for those buyers who like extra power in their trucks. For $2,995, Hennessey will offer you the VelociRaptor 500 package that bumps up output to 500 hp. This is courtesy of a stainless steel Catback exhaust system, air filters and a high-flow intake.

The Velociraptor 600 Twin Turbo package

The most interesting news is their new offer, the VelociRaptor 600 Twin Turbo. This package takes power output to a whopping 605 horses and 622 lb-ft of torque. With all this juice, the truck completes a 0-60 mph run in4.2 seconds. It completes a quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds. These are quite amazing figures for an off-road dedicated truck. This power hike is courtesy of upgraded turbochargers, a new high-flow air induction setup, a stainless steel exhaust setup, dyno testing, ECU upgrade as well as an air-to-air front-mounted intercooler.

The package also comes with special plaques on its cabin and under the hood to show it is not a regular Raptor truck. The model also has a 3 year/36,000-mile warranty. These upgrades come at a $22,500 price tag.

Off-road Stage 1 package

When you get such performance upgrades, it is likely you will desire your VelociRaptor to look different from the standard models, well Hennessey offers an exterior package separately. The package dubbed the “Off-road Stage 1” is available for an extra $12,995. The package adds special bumpers (front and rear), LED lighting, a front suspension leveling kit, 20-inch ten-spoke Hennessey wheels wrapped in 35-inch Toyo tires as well as a 3-inch suspension lift.

Extreme Engineering

If you feel the VelociRaptor 600 Twin Turbo is not enough for you, Hennessey offers to build you a 6-wheeled VelociRaptor that can crank out an amazing 700 horses. This record-breaking truck would cost you a whopping $295,000.

Price and release date

Hennessey is already accepting orders.  The performance house will build only 100 VelociRaptors.  You had better hurry to reserve yours for most certainly; these models will sell out in no time. If you miss out you can wait for the 6-wheeled 700-hp VelociRaptor 6×6.

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2018 Ford F-150 Exterior

The Ford F-150 hasn’t undergone a complete make-over, but there are some new changes in the exterior. All models have retained the aluminum alloy bodies. All headlamps, bumpers, and grilles are brand new. The models have a visually wider body. Lariant has had its twin bars painted body color to enhance the sporty look. It has a new tail lamp with an F-150 logo stamped on it.

The King Ranch, Limited and Platinum now have horizontal applique on the tailgates. The side mirrors now have spotlights for easier navigation during the night. The new Ford F-150 will have alloy wheels ranging from 17 inches to 22 inches.

On the rear, the model has a revised exhaust pipe, the pipe is bigger compared to that on the current model. It also features additional cutouts that apply the Venturi effect to cool the temperature of the exhaust gas. This system is adopted from the Super Duty truck, which uses a diesel mill. The tailgate also looks to have been upgraded. It has an additional handle as well as a visible crease.

2018 Ford F-150 Interior

The interiors have had a significant make-over regarding technology and appearance. The Platinum has a dark gray theme while the Limited has adopted a Navy Pier theme. The King Ranch has been fitted with seats fit for a king called Kingsville. The Lariant and the XLT will have carbon fiber interior trims.

The latest technology has been used to increase safety. A new pre-collision system complete with a pedestrian detector, a blind spot detector, car location system and a lane-keeping system are some of the significant safety advancements in the 2018 Ford F-150.

The sound system has received an upgrade. A state of the art B&O audio system has been installed. The system has ten Speakers, AM/FM stereo and anMP3 player. The SYNC Connect technology with the Fordpass app has been installed to enhance compatibility with the Apple Car Play and the Android Auto. A mobile Wi-Fi hotspot has been put in place to ensure the driver is connected. The seven models will have an auto start/stop technology.

Engine Specs and performance

The biggest news is under the hood where all indications point to a new diesel mill. However, all things point to a turbocharged 3.0 L, V-6 that is rated at 254 horses and 443 lb-ft of torque. This engine is borrowed from the current Range Rover Sport, the engine will be mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox channeling the juice to all four wheels. The 10-speed transmission system will be an upgrade since on the Range Rover it uses an 8-speed system. This engine will greatly improve the fuel economy ratings of the truck.

The 2018 F-150 will also get a 3.5 L, EcoBoost V-6 that will also be paired to the 10-speed automatic gearbox. This engine produces 370 hp and 435 lb-ft of torque. I understand that this system is jointly developed with General Motors who will use it on the upcoming Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. The new 3.3L V-6 Petrol engine will have 282 horsepower and 253 lb of torque.

The 2.7L Ecoboost has been upgraded with second generation ports and direct injection technology. Ford has withheld information on the diesel engine and the 5.0 L V-8. However, horsepower and torque are expected to improve.

The engines will have the option of the auto start and stop.This means that the engine will switch off automatically while in traffic and will reignite after stepping on the acceleration.

Other mills powering the current model will also be retained. The mills will, however, be updated to offer more power and enhanced fuel economy.

Price and release date

It is too early to expect Ford to avail details of the 2018 Ford F-150, the new models are expected to be released in the fall of 2017. The prices will range from $ 28,025 to $64,515.

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2017 Ford F-150 Exterior

The 2017 Ford F-150 has a rugged yet bold design. A gigantic grille flanked by striking headlights characterizes this look. The model also features a huge black front bumper.  The model is offered in three body styles i.e. Regular cab, SuperCab as well as SuperCrew. In addition, it features three-bed sizes (5.5 foot, 6.5-fooy as well as 8-foot). Buyers have an option of Race Red, Ingot Silver metallic and Blue JEANS Metallic exterior colors.

The base XL trim features 17-inch wheels, Black 3-bar style grille with a black surround, black bumper, rain lamp wiper activated headlights and running lights. Opting for the STX package adds Flash Gray-painted pockets, privacy glass, fog lights and 20-inch machined aluminum wheels.

The XLT adds front and rear chromed bumpers, black mesh grille inserts, chrome 3-bar grille that features chrome nostrils, power lock tailgate, power adjust side mirrors, dual glass as well as a rear fixed window featuring privacy tint.

The LARIAT trim adds LED Box Lightning, heated side mirrors with turn signals, LED tailgate, rear power sliding glass window with a defroster and privacy tint on SuperCab and SuperCrew. It also features LED security approach lights.

The F-150 Raptor features front and rear performance bumpers, a unique grille with the FORD lettering. Its front hood has air extractors, a feature continued on its flared front fenders. The Raptor also features 2 rear hooks, QUA beam LED headlights and LED taillights, heavy duty skid plates and customized wheel lip moldings.

On the other hand, the King Ranch features front and rear accent-color bumpers, accent color grille inserts, remote tailgate release, two-tone body paintwork and caribou step bars. The Platinum trim features satin mesh grille inserts, 3-bar style grille with a satin finish and chrome accenting; it also features deployable running boards. The top-of-the-range Limited trim features black mesh grille inserts, a bar-style grille that has a satin finish, twin panel moonroof on the SuperCrew as well as satin chrome door handles that feature body-color bezels.

2017 Ford F-150 Interior

The F-150 has a spacious cabin, which is also family friendly.  At the rear, you will even find LATCH connectors. The cabin is well trimmed with soft-touch materials. It also features Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system. The system has a simple and intuitive interface.

The dashboard, on the other hand, features numerous buttons for controlling audio and climate functions. Buyers have an option to add a navigation system, voice recognition as well as Siri Eyes Free that helps the driver to use voice commands to answer texts or emails without having to take his/her eyes off the road.

The F-150 has three bed lengths that enable buyers to choose one that is right for their needs. A functional tailgate allows one to climb in and out of the bed easily. The model also features movable tie-down cleats and stable loading ramps that make it easy to load and secure cargo.

Engine Specs and performance

The most changes on the model are under the hood where Ford offers a 10-speed automatic transmission system in place of the 6-speed system on the outgoing models. However, the 10-speed system will only be available on models with the 3.5 L, V-6, twin-turbocharged mill. Speaking of the V-6, the mill has been upgraded to offer 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque, which is 10 horses and 50 lb-ft more than what the outgoing models offered. This is courtesy of a combination of port and direct fuel injection, use of new turbochargers as well as use of a new valvetrain. The new level of torque places the model at the top of the class; it also beats V-8 as well as turbodiesel mills available on half-ton trucks today.

An even more powerful version of the V-6 mill will be used on the performance-oriented Raptor. This iteration may produce around 420 horses and 480 lb-ft of torque. The mill will replace the current 6.2 L, V-8.

In addition to the V-6, the vehicle will also feature a 2.7 L, turbocharged V-6 mill, a 5.0 L, V-8 as well as a 3.7 L, naturally aspirated engine. These engines still use the 6-speed transmission but word is they will all get the 10-speed automatic system for the 2018 model year.

The 10-speeed transmission system is jointly made together with General Motors. GM will debut the system on the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Price and release date

The base F-150’s XL trim with a regular cab is affordable at a starting price of $26,540. The F-150 Raptor fetches $48,325 while the Limited trim attracts as much as $59,600. The starting price for a Supercab XL model is $30,600 while the SuperCrew MSRP starts at $33,055.

Changing bed sizes costs from $300 to $1,100 depending on the bed length and trim. Upgrading from the base engine costs $2,600 to get the 3.5 L, V-6 and $1,600 for the V-8. A buyer can also add other options at an extra cost. The F-150 trucks are already available in dealerships.

Competition

Top rivals of the 2017 Ford F-150 include the GMC Sierra 1500, Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

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This development is thus huge news for Ford enthusiasts who have been longing for a midsize pickup truck.  What’s more, the automaker will not even have to do much as the automaker already sells the Ranger in other international markets. Ford will build the US Ranger at its Michigan Assembly Plant. Plans to bring back the model were released as the automaker responded to Donald Trump’s accusation that the company was shifting its manufacturing jobs to Mexico. In defense, the automaker said they were planning to release two new models i.e. the Ranger and a new Bronco, which would ensure no jobs were cut in its US factories.  Read along for more information:

current Global Ranger

2018 Ford Ranger Exterior

The new Ford Ranger will adopt a similar styling as the current Global Ranger. As such, the US Ranger will likely feature minor visual tweaks. I expect the front bumper and the grille to remain largely unchanged. The headlights will also be adopted unchanged from the Global Ranger. However, the automaker may still alter the design of these features albeit slightly to differentiate the model from its global cousin. The front fascia is likely to come with a huge air dam to help cool the monstrous engine inside. I also expect the automaker to enlarge the model’s front tow hooks.

Onto the sides, the truck profile and shape won’t change much from that of the Global Ranger.  Ford will like to maintain the look just as it is to avoid incurring unnecessary costs. However, the automaker will likely add a sliding rear window option. Most likely, the US Ranger will forego the roll bars and the roof rack bars as well.

At the rear, I expect the model to maintain a traditional step bumper along with an option for a frame-mounted trailer hitch receiver. In addition, I expect the rear to feature four-and seven- pen connectors for the trailer lights. Ford will also likely offer the spring-loaded assist system. The cargo bed will feature LED lighting. Another likely feature is the telescoping ATV ramps mounted on bed walls.

Finally, I expect the lower trims to ride on 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season tires but with an option for all-terrain tires. Higher trim levels will ride on 19-inch alloy wheels.

2018 Ford Ranger Interior

The US Ranger will most likely adopt the interior of the current Global Ford Ranger.  The Global Ranger features an uncluttered cabin. Its center stack leads into the center console.  On the console, you will likely find the model’s gear-shifter as well as the 4WD switch for AWD models.  For the US version, the automaker may revise the console to feature cupholders to accommodate softdrinks, which Americans can’t just do without.

Tech-wise, I expect the cabin to feature the latest SYNC but only in mid and top trims. The system features Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system, hands-free phone operation, HD and satellite radio, voice control as well as a 360-degree camera.

While top trims will certainly feature leather upholstery on the seats as well as wood and metal accents on other surfaces, lower trims will feature cloth or vinyl upholstery to appeal to the price-conscious customers.

Engine Specs and performance

According to credible reports, three engines will power the Ranger. The first mill is a 3.2 L, five-cylinder turbodiesel mill that is used on Transit Vans. On the vans, the engine produces 185 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. However, Ford may upgrade the engine for slightly more power.

The second likely engine is a 2.7 L, EcoBoost V-6, which powers the F-150. The engine produces 325 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. Another likely engine is the four-cylinder petrol mill for the fuel-economy conscious buyers. The likely candidate in this respect is the 2.3 L EcoBoost I-4 that powers the Explorer. The engine is rated at 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

As for the transmission, the likely choices may include a 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed manual gearbox. In addition, the Ranger may be offered with an option for either RWD or 4WD. 4WD models will likely feature a 2-speed transfer case through an electronic dial.

Price and release date

It is too early to talk prices for the 2018 Ford Ranger. However, to be competitive in the market, the model will likely be priced within the range of its competitors. As such a price of around $20,000 for the base models is likely.

Competition

Top rivals of the 2018 Ford Ranger will include the Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, GMC Canyon and Toyota Tacoma.

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In addition to the aluminum body panels, the model is made from a new fully boxed frame which is made from 95% high-strength steel. The automaker says the new frame is 24 times stiffer compared to the current one on the current model. This means the model will be capable of hauling bigger and heavier stuff. Read along to find out more:

2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty Exterior

As said above, the body frame is made from 95% high strength steel while body panels are made from aluminum. The exterior of the new truck looks similar to the outgoing model except for the various subtle upgrades. The trucks will feature LED lighting on their headlights, side mirror spotlights, taillights and on the cargo box.

The model is offered in 2-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab (SuperCab) and 4-door crew cab. There will also be a chassis cab for commercial uplifting. The SupeCab has rear-hinged doors but the Crew Cab has 4 full size conventional doors. All models will be offered in either 6.8-foot or 8-foot long cargo beds.

Four trims are available i.e. XL, XLT, Lariat and the range-topping luxurious King Ranch trim.

2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty Interior

Maneuvering these huge trucks particularly when you have an attached trailer is a difficult task. To ease this, Ford has hooked up the F-350 Super Duty with 7 cameras to aid the driver. Four of the cameras will form the trucks 360-degree view. There will be a camera to monitor the cargo box. There is also an option for another camera mounted on the trailer to aid when reversing. There is also an option for a tire monitoring system for the trailer.

The new models will also feature driving aids like those offered on cars and SUVs including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, a blind spot monitoring system and forward collision mitigation with emergency brake assist. Its new steering wheel comes with an option for a small electric motor to provide steering assist. This is particularly meant to improve the model’s steering when pulling heavy load on winding terrain since the current models are a bit unsettling in such situations.

The cabin will also feature upgraded Ford Sync infotainment system with voice recognition. The system will feature an 8.0-inch touch-screen display.

For extra bucks you can get a leather upholstered interior, automatic lighting, adjustable seats and LCD screens.

Engine Specs and performance

The model features the same drive-rains as the outgoing model.  The first engine is a 6.2 L, V-8 petrol engine capable of 385 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque. The second engine is a 6.7 L, V-8 diesel mill good for 440 hp and 860 lb-ft of torque.  Both engines will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission system and will be available in both RWD and AWD.

The automaker has not released details on the model’s tow rating but I expect the new model to be more capable than the outgoing model. The petrol powered Super Duty with a single-rear- wheel setup will be capable of towing around 12,500 pounds.  Models with dual-rear-wheel setup will be capable of around 16,000 pounds.  The diesel V-8 will on the other hand tow as much as 14,000 with a single rear-wheel setup and 19,000 with dual-rear-wheel setup.

Price and release date

Ford has hiked prices for the 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty trucks. While the base XL Regular Cab starts at $34,900, a $425 increase from the outgoing models, the top trims feature a significant increase of over $5,000.

The XL SuperCab goes for $37,240 and $38,500 for the XL Crew Cab. The XLT Regular Cab starts at $39,115, $41,775 for the XLT SuperCab and $43,605 for the Super Duty XLT Crew Cab.

For the Lariat trims, the base Lariat SuperCab starts at $46,300 while the Lariat Crew Cab goes for $49,800. The range-topping F-350 Super Duty King Ranch Crew Cab will set you back $56,630. All models come with extra packages and standalone options for extra bucks.

Competition

Biggest rivals to the 2017 Ford F-350 Super Duty include the Ram 3500 and Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD.

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According to the automaker, the combination of the high-strength steel frame and aluminum panels has helped cut 350 pounds off its curb weight. This in turn has improved its performance i.e. added more hauling and towing capability. Read along to find out more:

2017 Ford F-250 Exterior

The model still features the all familiar look with the blocky look that appears somehow futuristic.  The grille is modified with a two-bar margin graphic and features perforations in some trim levels. The automaker has however increased use of LED lights.

The Quad-Beam headlights feature LED lighting and stretch forward unlike in the outgoing model. Only the turn signals have been left sweeping back into the fenders.   LED lighting is also featured on the side mirror spotlights, cargo box lighting and on the taillights.

The model still features the familiar huge wheel flares which have been smoothened to blend well with the rest of the body. All other features look unchanged from those of the outgoing model. The construction follows hot in the heels of the F-150 truck. Steel is used on the fully boxed frame.

However, Chassis Cabs feature a blend between a fully boxed cab and the conventional C-channel which enables for a wide range of aftermarket body customization. As said earlier, the frame features 95% steel and is 24 times stronger than the current model.

On the other hand, the body features military-grade aluminum which is more resistant to dents.
The vehicle will be offered in 3 body styles i.e. a two-door regular cab, 4-door extended cab (SuperCab) and 4-door Crew Cab. The Crew Cab features full size conventional-opening doors while the SuperCab features rear-hinged doors.  The body styles are offered in XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum trims. The models will either have 6.8 foot or 8-foot long cargo beds.

2017 Ford F-250 Interior

For trucks, especially these kinds of trucks, functionality is everything. That is why Ford has hooked up the F-250 with up to 7 cameras to ensure the driver has an easy time maneuvering attached trailers.

Four of the cameras form its 360-degree view. Another camera is mounted at the rear to monitor the cargo box. Buyers can also opt for trailer-mounted cameras and a trailer tire pressure monitoring system.

The Super Duty trucks will even feature a host of driving aids such as blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with emergency braking and lane departure warning. These features make the F-250 the smartest Super Duty truck Ford has ever made.

The cabin of the 2017 Ford F-250 will also feature Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touch-screen display. The infotainment system is more intuitive and provides a better Smartphone pairing.

In addition to the extended cargo beds, the SuperCab and Crew cab models will have flat floors in the second row to enable large cargo to fit in which improves the functionality of the model. The tailgate is also operated remotely.

Engine Specs and Performance

The lineup of engines is maintained unchanged from the outgoing model. They include a 6.2 L V8 petrol engine which produces 385 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque in the current model. There will also be the turbo-diesel 6.7 L Power Stroke V-8 diesel engine capable of 440 hp and 860 lb-ft of torque.

The petrol engine is paired with a 6-speed TorqShift-G automatic transmission system which channels power to either the real wheels or all wheels. This is the first time Ford has used this gearbox with a petrol engine. The diesel engine will also be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission system. However, Chassis cabs will also feature a 6.8 L V-10 petrol engine.

Ford is yet to release data on performance and tow ratings. However, the models will have improved ratings. Expect the petrol V-8 to tow as much as 15,900 pounds and around 14,000 lbs for the diesel engine. However, addition of a gooseneck towing enables the diesel to tow as much as 16,600 pounds.

Price and release date

The base XL Regular Cab has an MSRP of $ 33,730 inclusive of destination charges. Although that is just $150 more than the outgoing model, the range-topping Super Duty Platinum trim starts at $ 63,305, an increase of $ 5,070 from the current model. The XLT Regular Cab is priced at $ 37,395 while the Lariat SuperCab starts at $ 46,300 and $ 55,455 for the King Ranch trim.

The models will heat dealerships in the last quarter of 2016.

Competition

Competition is becoming stiff in this segment. Other automakers have of late revamped their models to become more competitive.  The biggest rivals will be the Ram 2500, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD and the new Nissan Titan.

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Ford F-150 transmission, seatbelts, airbags and brakes recall

Ford has issued a recall of Ford F-150 trucks due to a number of issues.  The issues range from faulty brakes, transmission problems and less effective seatbelts and airbags.

Seatbelts recall

Ford has issued a compliance recall for 3,218 units of the 2015 F-150. The units affected are SuperCrew models that were built between 22^nd January and 17^th March in the Dearborn factory. 555 models are in Canada, 73 in Mexico and the rest in the US.

The problem lies in the pretensioner cables which might not have been secured properly. In the event of a crash, the seatbelts could inadequately restrain occupants. The automaker says there haven’t been any incidents related to the seatbelts though. Owners of affected models should deliver them to their local dealers for replacement of the seatbelt retractor and pretensioner.

Brake master cylinders recall

The automaker has also issued a recall for around 271,000 F-150 models built between 2013 and 2014 to replace their brake master cylinders. Ford reckons that it is possible that brake effectiveness is reduced in some vehicles due to brake fluid leaks. Ford said that brake fluid in some models could be leaking into the brake booster. This increases chances of a crash. The leak only affects brakes to the front wheels only.

The automaker says 9 incidents related to the brakes have been reported; fortunately, there have been no injuries.

Models affected are F-150 models with 3.5-liter GTDI engines built between 1^st August 2013 and 22^nd August 3^rd 2014 at the Dearborn Truck Factory and those built between 1^st August and 31^st August 2014 at Kansas City Assembly Factory.

270, 873 models are affected with 225,012 being in the US, 43,682 in Canada and 402 are in Mexico. Owners of affected vehicles should deliver them to their local dealers for replacement of the brake master cylinder and brake booster at no cost to the customer.

Transmission problem recall

F-150 trucks are also among 202,000 models that Ford has recalled over a problem with their transmission.  Affected models suddenly experience downshift to the first gear which causes a decline in speed. In addition, the downshift can cause rear tires to slide or even lock up. The issue only affects vehicles with the 6R80 automatic transmission system.

Models affected are 2011 and 2012 F-150 trucks. The 2012 Expedition, Lincoln Navigator and Mustang are also part of the vehicles recalled. In total, 184,000 F-150 trucks manufactured in the period specified are affected.

The blue oval automaker said that the issue is related to the software installed on the speed sensor. Affected models will be inspected and their software updated. Three cases related to the problem have been reported.

Airbags recall

Ford is also recalling certain models of the 2016 F-150 trucks due to a faulty passenger-airbag sensor. Ford says the sensor can deactivate the frontal airbags by confusing a seated adult for a child. The problem though is only experienced on the multi-contour seat which is offered as an option. Ford also said that the problem is only experienced when the seat’s massage feature is activated. In total, 2,894 trucks are affected.

The automaker through its dealers will reprogram the occupant classification system of the airbags. Owners will be notified when the reprogramming will be available.

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