REVIEWS AND ROAD TESTS

Slot Machine

Every carbuilder’s fantasy: in 1999, more than 800,000 units of the F Series found takers in North America. Ford reports that out of this total number of owners, 70% had no intention whatsoever of transporting beams, concrete blocks or tool boxes. This says a lot about the power of seduction of this streamlined and strong-looking truck.

Ever since last year, Ford insists on making each of its pickup models distinct, which fall into two main categories: “ large ” and “ small ” . In other words, there are the lighter F- 150 and F-250 models, targeted at domestic and small- business users, and then there are the F-Super Duty models, designed, obviously, for heavy-duty jobs.If you haven’t ridden in a truck lately, the F Series will be a pleasant surprise. Both modern and user-friendly, the interior has nothing rudimentary about it: a stylized dashboard, smooth controls and comfortable seats (regardless of the configuration you select). However, rear seats on the extended cab version offer only average comfort even over short distances. And there are no headrests for rear-seat passengers, so they have to use their neck muscles to avoid knocking their heads against the rear windshield during strong acceleration. Lastly, a little extra soundproofing material would come in handy to reduce the noise level in the passenger compartment.The F-150 and F-250 touring models boast the most aerodynamic lines and they come solely with a 4.2-liter V6 or a 4.6-liter V8. They are available with a regular or extended cab (now with four doors), a short or long box, and two-wheel or four-wheel drive (on demand). The V8 engine that powers these legendary trucks has been modified to give it more power. In 2000, we saw a new Super Crew version of the F-150. It has four-door multiple-passenger cab and a shortened pickup box. To be honest, it’s just not possible to give an overview of all of the permutations and combinations proposed in the F Series. However, the short wheelbase version coupled with the V6 and manual transmission duo is certainly a lot of fun to drive. Put the same V6 in an extended cab version, and it starts to sweat under the strain. The two available V8s (a 4.6-liter and a 5.4-liter) have no apparent flaws, except for a tendency to guzzle gas like a growing teenager guzzles milk. A friendly tip: the 5.4-liter is still the most efficient in the 4×4 mode. Lastly, for thrill-seekers, Ford offers a limited edition F-150 Lightning SVT, a cross between a truck and a mustang with a pumped up 5.4-liter V8 engine of 380 HP!

PROS
Choice of models
Four doors standard on extended cab version
Good engines

CONS
Uncomfortable bench seats
High noise level (base model)