What makes a great pickup truck? There are plenty of factors to consider, from the engine tucked beneath the hood to the number of features packed under the dash. With automakers across the spectrum designing pickup trucks of their own, it can be something of a challenge to sift through all the noise. That said, the Ford F-150 is a continued classic, with a history dating all the way back to the 1940s. In many ways, the Ford F-150 established a foundation for the pickup truck to flourish. Today, the Ford F-150 is still a fan favorite, and with seven different trim options to choose from potential buyers have quite the selection to contend with. So, if you’re looking for a Ford F-150 for sale, what should you go for? Should you invest in the off-road titan Ford F-150 Raptor, or is the ever-luxurious Limited trim your best bet?
Getting the Basics Out of the Way
The Ford F-150 is arguably the founding father of pickup trucks, and today is one of many in a particularly crowded market. The latest 2019 Ford F-150 follows in the tradition of providing drivers with robust engine power, reasonable fuel economy, and plenty of extra bells and whistles, should you choose to put down the extra cash.
Let’s start with the basics. The 2019 Ford F-150 comes in seven different trim options the XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Raptor, Platinum, and Limited. Starting at around $28,155 MSRP and rising as high as the 70k mark, you can expect quite a range in terms of features and performance.
The base model, the XL, comes with a 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 engine that turns fuel into 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft worth of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which is smooth and consistent. Towing is incredible on the base model as well, as drivers can haul roughly 7,000 lbs behind them. Fuel economy starts strong with the Ford F-150 as well, earning an EPA-rated 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway, which is a steal.
It’s important to mention that the Ford F-150 can be configured even further thanks to the three different cab selections: Regular Cab, Super Cab, and SuperCrew Cab. Base models can only be fitted with the Regular Cab, which is pretty bare in terms of extra stylings. That said, drivers and passengers will find plenty of head and legroom. At that low entry price, you also won’t find anything too fancy at the jump. XL trucks get some pretty dated interior add-ons including manual door locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. The base model Ford F-150 also doesn’t leave much in the way of safety add-ons, as you’ll have to take comfort with just the bare bones. All of these things considered, it’s easy to see why the base model Ford F-150 is often described as a work truck. Remove all of the glitzy features and fancy add-ons, and you have a well-performing machine that is only there to get the job done.
Moving Up the Trim Option Ladder
Beyond the base model, features begin to blend a little. For instance, in the XLT and Lariat trim options, drivers can find the same engine as base models. However, they’ll be given the option to upgrade to the far more powerful 3.3-liter V6, 3.5-liter V6, or 5.0-liter V8. The XLT also comes with the same minimal amount of safety features found in the XL model. The interior dressings of the XLT are pretty stripped too, only adding power locks and windows, cloth upholstery in the front seats, and a CD player to what the XL offered. In many ways the XLT still fits in the work truck category, while the Lariat takes a step up towards something a little more luxurious.
Like the XLT the Lariat can come with either a turbo V6 or V8 engine but receives a number of extra upgrades that make the overall higher purchase price well worth it. In terms of interior and accessibility tech add-ons, drivers can expect to find an 8.0-inch touch screen with Ford’s Sync3 infotainment system and intuitive keyless ignition. You can also a package of other superior add-ons like Sony’s premium audio system, adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assistance, heated front, and rear seats, and a stylish two-tone paint job.
If you want a truly luxurious pickup driving experience, you can opt for the King Ranch, Limited, or Platinum trim options. Engine power can vary dramatically across these trim options; however, drivers will have the option of either a 5.0-liter V8 engine, a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6, or a 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine. What really makes these trims unique is the option of a SuperCrew cab. This sprawling cab option offers four full-sized doors and more than enough room for up to five adults.
In terms of special features, the King Ranch gets authentic leather meant to mimic a horse’s saddle, heated front, and rear seats, and a highly adjustable set of power front seats. The Platinum offers up a whole suite of tech including blind-spot monitors, remote start, ambient interior lighting, navigation software, and LED headlights. At the top of the luxury pickup truck is the Limited Trim which includes all of the previously mentioned features as well as a dual-pane sunroof, a surround-view camera, and 22-inch wheels.
If you’re looking to drive a pickup truck that really delivers in the power and capability, look no further than the 2019 F-150 Raptor. The Ford Raptor makes full use of an Ecoboost V6 engine which puts out 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft worth of torque. What really sets the Ford Raptor apart is that it comes out of the factor fully prepped for off-roading. Behind the wheel, drivers will find six different drive modes, highly-durable off-road tires, and a level of ground clearance that sets the Raptor high above its competitors.
As you can see, the Ford F-150 lineup is incredibly diverse, satisfying everyone from the off-road outdoor enthusiast to the luxury car driver who wants a little more power beneath the hood. That said, which trim option is the right fit for you?
The Many Faces of the Ford F-150
The 2019 Ford F-150 is one of the most varied pickup trucks on the market, and as such, finding the trim option that fits your wants and needs can be rather overwhelming. Do you prefer a full package of next-level safety features? Or are you looking for a work truck to better your business? The Ford F-150 answers all of these questions. While you may have been pointed in the right direction thanks to this post, we always suggest that potential owners go get a look at their ideal vehicle at a local dealership. There, you can sit behind the wheel, and get a true feel for what trim of the Ford F-150 fits both your drive style and your lifestyle.
