The Ford F-150 from 2017 is a popular model with a number of traits that consumers value. Here’s a review of the basic makeup of the vehicle and its various characteristics.
Basics and MSRP
The Ford F-150 from 2017 has a starting MSRP of $26,730. It has an aluminum body and bed. Basic specs include the base 3.5 liter V-6 engine. You can also choose the 2.7 liter turbo V-6 as well, or even upgrade to the 5.0 liter V-8 if you wish. The truck seats between three and six people depending on how you do it.
The base curb weight for the 4 X 2 is approximately 4,051 pounds. The maximum payload for a fully equipped version is 3,270 pounds. It can tow up to 12,200 pounds when fully equipped.
Features
You get a number of unique features starting out with a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission for starters. The drive train is Rear Wheel Drive depending on the model. The engine type is flex-fuel. You get the heated mirrors and all of the basic stuff like external temperature display. The electric power steering is definitely there, as well as air conditioners and four speakers. This is all on the basic model.
The full model includes LED lighting and an 8-inch productivity screen. You also get SYNC 3 technology.
This means that you can do navigation and make calls all with just one button push and then the sound of your voice.
The technology can do Bluetooth audio syncing to your phones. It can download your phone book. It’s a fully capacitive touch screen and it can let you do your phone conversations through your vehicle’s speakers while driving. There’s the potential to connect with SiriusXM since the vehicle can be fitted with an XM antenna. This also includes the Traffic and Travel Link options.
The vehicle features a 5-star crash test rating for its overall rating. This makes it the safest F-150 ever, and one of the safest cars in its class overall. You have the Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Electronic-Locking Rear Differential for aiding in the activities you’ll be performing with the truck. This also includes the 360-degree camera and split-view display. This way, you can take a look at what’s happening behind you from all angles to make for better towing over difficult terrain, even with awkward tows.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
The Ford F-150 is known as one of the safest trucks in its class because of its smart towing assist technology. The electronic-locking rear differential, for example, makes sure that both rear tires get traction at the same time. This way, you’ll get top of the line traction even when you’re going off road.
Many other trucks within Ford, Chevrolet, and other companies won’t have these same types of features. One comparison that comes up a lot is the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado and the F150 from the same year. People also compare it with the Ram 1500.
Compared to these vehicles, the F-150 does well in terms of full power, versatility, and the step in the bed. However, other trucks in the same class have better cabins with more luxurious features according to some reviewers. Some people prefer the other vehicles in terms of the ride and the steering capabilities. When it comes to comfort, this appears to be mostly a matter of preference. Some people prefer the more luxurious seating in the Ram or the way that the Silverado uses space. That said, the fact that the F150 actually has a massage feature in the seats is an advantage it has over these others.
Fuel Efficiency
The Ford F-150 gets 18 miles per gallon for city driving with the 4X4 Payload Package. On a highway, it’s 24 mpg, and it’s 21 for the average. If you’re using the 4×2, then you get 19, 26 and 22 for the three specifications in MPG.
Pros and Cons
The plus side of the 2017 Ford F-150 includes that it gives you efficient and turbocharged choices for the V6. The aluminum body also really cuts down on the weight which means that you get much better ratings for towing and for what kind of payloads you can put in the back. The vehicle also has some of the best crash test scores for its class. You get many different features when it comes to comfort, convenience, and safety features. Reviewers have also commented about how the seats are large and comfortable.
Downsides to the vehicle include that repairing the aluminum panels on the body is sometimes going to be pricier than if it was just made of steel. The ride can be a bit bumpy when there’s nothing in the flatbed as well. Additionally, some have criticized the EcoBoost technology in the vehicle as being a bit overrated. Criticism has come in about performance including how the brakes are overly sensitive and really leap at the slightest touch.
