It’s a mid-cycle revamp for the 2018 Ford F-150 full-size pickup truck. The visual alterations to the exterior include new wheels, outer tailgate, bumpers, and grilles. Several of the trim levels (XLT Sport, XLT Special Edition, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited) feature changes in seating materials. With its aluminum body and extensive use of high strength steels in its fully boxed ladder frame, the F-150 gains capability in 2018. Depending on how the truck is configured, the towing now ranges from 5000 pounds to 13,200 pounds. (Top towing capability had been 12,200 pounds.)

The tested 145-inch wheelbase F-150 4x4 SuperCrew was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 turbo-diesel engine that mated to a 10-speed electronic automatic transmission with selectable drive modes (normal, tow/haul, snow/wet, eco, sport). There are several engine options, including the new 3.3-liter V6 with flex-fuel capability. A week-long test drive of the F-150 4x4 SuperCrew (with Platinum technology package) illuminated the usefulness of a tailgate step, 360-degree camera, active park assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop and go technology. The F-150 with Platinum trim starts at $54,485. Estimated mpg for F-150 4x4 SuperCrew with 3.0-liter diesel engine is 20 city/25 highway.