What's New For 2009? Though it looks similar to the outgoing truck, the 2009 Ford F-150 pickup has been significantly overhauled from the frame up. The style more closely resembles that of the Super Duty pickup, the engine lineup now includes three more fuel-efficient V-8s and no V-6s, a six-speed automatic transmission debuts, the more spacious SuperCrew has grown by six inches, rear leaf springs have been lengthened to improve ride and handling, and a new Platinum model outranks the King Ranch as the most luxurious Ford F-150 truck. An SFE (superior fuel economy) package, offering up to 21 mpg and a 7,500-lb. towing capacity, challenge's GM's XFE and Hybrid variants.
Should I Buy This Car? Yes. Ford's redesigned 2009 F-150 aims to retain its title of best-selling full-size pickup truck with class-leading towing capacity, a comfortable and surprisingly quiet ride, innovative features such as in-dash Internet access, and up to 21 mpg.
What sets the 2009 Ford F-150 apart from its competition?There are several differentiators, one of which is the new Work Solutions system, available in the F-150, Super Duty, and E-Series. Among the available features are a locking cable system developed by Master Lock and an in-dash computer that grants the user high-speed access to the Internet through Sprint's broadband network.
What else should I consider? Before signing off on a 2009 F-150, you'll want to take a look at the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado (and 2009 GMC Sierra) with more available V-8 power, the completely redesigned 2009 Dodge Ram offering an extremely smooth ride and available satellite television, and the 2009 Toyota Tundra, a truck that seems to be overcompensating for something with its bigger-than-the-average-bear size.
Quick Look: 2009 Ford F-150
For 2009, the Ford F-150 is available in XL, STX, XLT, FX4, Lariat, and King Ranch trims, with an all-new top-of-the-line Platinum model filling the void left by the slow-selling Lincoln Mark LT. Selecting your new Ford F-150 also requires choosing between Regular Cab, SuperCab and SuperCrew styles with short or long beds. Additionally, you'll need to opt for one of three V-8 engines, not to mention rear- or four-wheel-drive capability.
Base prices for the 2009 Ford F-150 range from $21,320 for an XL Regular Cab 4X2 to $41,415 for a Platinum SuperCrew 4X2. Prices include a $975 destination charge. Entry-level Ford F-150 models feature a 16-valve, 248-horsepower 4.6-liter V-8 mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. A 24-valve, 292-horsepower 4.6-liter V-8 is also available, paired with a new smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission making the most of the engine's power. Rounding out the trio of eight-bangers is a 24-valve, 5.4-liter V-8 that boasts 310 horses with regular gasoline, or 320 horsepower when the fuel tank is filled with E85.
The 2009 Ford F-150 is a clear response to the 2009 Dodge Ram, which sacrifices a bit of capability in the name of ride and handling. Indeed, the F-150's ride has been improved significantly, and with the exception of some low-rent bits in high-end models, refinement has taken several steps forward. Plus, there's class-leading capability, but Ford's optional cargo bins seem like an afterthought versus Dodge's Ram Box, and the F-150's top-dog V-8 is seriously outmuscled by the competition. Nevertheless, if you're in the market for a capable light-duty truck that's short on compromises, the new Ford F-150 is a must-see.
See All 2009 Ford F-150 Trim Levels on MyRide.com
See the Test Drive: 2009 Ford F-150 Trim on MyRide.com
By Thom Blackett
Photo credit: Ford
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