Ford F-150 Critical Review

Ford F-150

Ford F-150

Ford F-150

Ford F-150

Ford F-150

The 2011 Ford F-150 ranks 3 out of 8 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 46 published reviews and test drives of the Ford F-150, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
With a range of all-new engines, reviewers say the 2011 Ford F-150 deserves to continue its reign as America’s best-selling pickup.
When it comes to trucks, unveiling a whole new set of powertrains may as well be as important as a full redesign. After all, trucks need enough power to (literally) pull their weight – and then some. The F-150 was redesigned in 2009, but continued to use engines that could be traced back to the previous generation F-150. That changes for 2011.
This year the F-150 gets two new V6 engines as well as one new V8. Additionally, a 6.2-liter V8 that was first seen last year as an option in the Ford F-150 SVT Raptor is now the top end engine in the base F-150 as well. On the whole, reviewers say the new engines give the F-150 an edge, providing ample power and good fuel economy.
Beyond the new engines, reviewers have only positive things to say about the 2011 Ford F-150. They say it’s a capable truck with a ride that’s comfortable around town and a well-built interior with available high-tech options.

Other Trucks to Consider

Though the 2011 Ford F-150 receives a lot of praise, buyers should also look at the Chevrolet Silverado and Dodge Ram. The Silverado is available in a fuel-efficient Hybrid model and regular Silverado trucks start out $1,565 cheaper than the base F-150. Reviewers also say the Ram, with its coil sprung rear suspension, offers a more comfortable ride. The Ram also starts at a bit over $1,000 less than the F-150.

Details: Ford F-150

The 2011 Ford F-150 is available in 11 different trims, not including the different cab configurations (regular, extended or crew), bed lengths (5.5 feet, 6.5 feet, or 8 feet), or engine choices (two V6’s and two V8’s).
For 2011 the F-150 comes with a slew of new engines. A base 3.7-liter V6 produces 302-horsepower and a 5.0-liter V8 with 360-horsepower are the two bottom rung engines. Surprisingly positioned above the 5.0-liter V8, Ford is introducing a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower. F-150s equipped with the twin-turbo mill are capable of towing 11,300 pounds, just as much as the top line 411-horsepower 6.2-liter V8. Off-road oriented SVT Raptor, luxurious Lariat Limited and special Harley-Davidson edition F-150s come standard with the 6.2-liter V8. All models receive a six-speed automatic transmission.
Other changes include a 4.2-inch LCD display in the gauge cluster that displays information about fuel economy, towing and off-roading. A new three-point safety belt now rests in the middle passenger position of bench-seat equipped F-150’s. Driver’s also benefit from integrated spotters mirrors in the side mirrors.
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• " The F-150 is a strong competitor and a must-see for those shopping full-size pickups"
• "If you want a truck with serious towing and payload capabilities, yet as quiet and comfortable as many luxury sedans, then the F-150 should surely be on your shopping list." –
• " It's not easy to design a pickup truck that can do heavy work and still maintain the smooth ride, lack of noise and upscale interior that many non-work owners demand. Ford has succeeded in both areas." --
• "Ford has a version of the F-150 to meet almost any buyer's needs." --
  
• "All said, though, the F-150 is still one of the most appealing trucks on the market thanks to its user-friendly features and pleasant driving dynamics. The question is whether you need or want more oomph than the Ford can provide." --

F-150 Performance - 8.7 (Very Good)

Reviews have mostly positive things to say about the 2011 Ford F-150’s performance. The new powertrains receive praise for their towing capabilities and power, while the ride and handling is also applauded, though reviewers say the Dodge Ram rides even better.

F-150 Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)

Reviewers that acknowledge the looks of the 2011 Ford F-150 generally have positive things to say, though Kelley Blue Book notes, "One drawback are the box's tall sides that make reaching into the center of the bed a difficult chore for all but the tallest among us; an available extendable side step somewhat alleviates this problem and is an option worth considering."

F-150 Interior - 9.2 (Excellent)

Reviewers like the interior of the 2011 Ford F-150, complimenting the comfortable seating, interior quality, and new 4.2-inch LCD display in the gauge cluster that some reviewers claim sets the bar for such a system.

F-150 Safety - NA

The 2011 Ford F-150 has yet to be tested by the federal government, but the similar 2010 F-150 earned five out of five stars for driver and passenger protection in frontal and side impact tests. Two-wheel drive F-150s have a four-star rollover rating, while four-wheel drive F-150s have a three-star rollover rating. In crash testing done by the insurance industry the 2011 F-150 receives a score of good in all tested areas.

F-150 Reliability - NA

Ford backs the 2011 F-150 with a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper to bumper warranty, and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance is also available for the first five years or 60,000 miles of ownership.