Our review score: 8.4 / 10
The 2015 Ford F-150 boasts several big body changes, a new engine and more advanced tech features than ever before, all of which add up to one of the best pickup trucks on the market.
We can’t review the new Ford F-150 without acknowledging the recent news first – that the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) has named it the Canadian Pickup of the Year and a candidate for the Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year award. In order to win the AJAC’s admiration, a vehicle must be completely new or changed significantly enough to feel new. The redesigned F-150 isn’t new, but it sure seems that way.
Competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon and Ram 1500 all put up a tough fight, but none of them could measure up to the F-150’s uncanny ability to evolve. Its tough new body, superb engine and wide array of tech features all remind us why exactly Ford is one of the top automakers on the planet. But, let’s see exactly why this truck is so beloved:
Body Changes
The styling changes made to the Ford F-150 may not be immediately noticeable to the naked eye as this pickup continues with the conservative design that suits the taste of many buyers. The most noticeable changes can be seen on the revised grille and the vehicle’s distinct headlights.
While not obvious, the biggest change made to the F-150 body is the addition of lightweight aluminum that’s now being used everywhere – from the hood to the body panels. This material update is the first of its kind in the segment, which easily separates the F-150 from the rest of its brethren. The update also shaves 700 pounds off the total body weight of the pickup, which helps to improve fuel economy.
Those who are worried that their pickup truck is made of the same material as Coke cans should put their fears aside. Ford defines the lightweight material as “high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy.”
New Engine
Ford also adds two new twin-turbocharged engines to the fresh F-150. The base offering is a turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 that produces 325 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque. The other new addition is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre version of the engine, which makes 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque.
The new engines come paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and are available with either two- or four-wheel drive. The truck feels light and is quick on its feet, which usually isn’t the case for pickups, but definitely suits the manners of the new F-150.
Advanced Technology
Gone are the days when ruggedness and payload were deciding factors when purchasing a truck; there is much more for buyers to consider nowadays, and technology features are definitely high up on that list. Ford definitely recognizes this shift and has implemented enough advanced features to make the experience more luxurious, convenient and safe.
There are video cameras to be found throughout, including a trailer hitch assist with a dynamic guide that makes lining up the hitch ball and trailer coupling a ridiculously simple job. There is also a top-down 360-degree camera that allows you to easily maneuver around parking lots and job sites alike.
Not enough? The new eight-inch “productivity” display screen will display all the information you need, such as off-roading and tire pressure data, in a crisp and user-friendly manner. The screen also displays the MyFord Touch infotainment system that’s available on the upper-level trims.
Finally, the F-150 ups the sophistication factor with new safety technologies, which include rear parking sensors, forward collision warning preparation, a lane departure warning system and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts.
Verdict
Overall, the new Ford F-150 deserves the recognition it’s received this year. It’s a reflection of Ford’s ability to adapt and build a solid vehicle year after year.
