spirotours.com spirit of car news and automotive blog
2023 Ford F-150. When you think of a pickup truck, the Ford F-150 probably comes to mind. The perennial best-seller has been modernized with an aluminum body, turbocharged powertrains, a hybrid option, an all-electric variant (reviewed separately), and Ford‘s most advanced technology. If you’re looking for a work truck, the entry-level XL has everything you need and nothing you don’t. However, as you move up the trim ladder, you’ll find a growing list of desirable features, along with correspondingly higher prices.
For those who want to explore the wilderness, the Tremor model is available, whereas the Platinum and Limited trims provide Lincoln-level luxury. The F-150 does not ride as well as the Ram 1500 or handle as precisely as the Chevrolet Silverado, but it is extremely capable, highly configurable, and fiercely competitive. In other words, it is sufficiently accomplished to inspire the kind of devotion that has kept it at the top of the sales charts year after year.
exterior
For 2023, Ford has added the off-road-focused Rattler trim to the F-150 lineup. The Rattler is based on the XL FX4 and features unique 18-inch wheels, a dual-exhaust system, hill-descent control, a locking rear differential, and an off-road suspension system, along with logos inspired by rattlesnakes. The Rattler’s position in the F-150 lineup provides a more affordable option for buyers who desire enhanced off-road capability but do not wish to invest in the pricier Tremor or Raptor models.
The 2023 Ford F-150 is offered in a variety of body styles and bed lengths. While the XLT model is a step up from the XL work truck, we prefer the Lariat due to its additional amenities. It costs nearly $10,000 more than the XLT, which may make it unaffordable to some buyers, but it offers the best combination of features and affordability.
2023 Ford F-150 Powertrain, Engine, and Performance
A 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6, a 400-hp 5.0-liter V-8, a 325-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6, a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, and a 250-hp 3.0-liter diesel V-6 are available for the 2023 F-150. Regardless of which engine you choose, the F-150 comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The F-150 is offered for the first time ever with a hybrid powertrain. Ford asserts that the new 400-hp hybrid powertrain, which consists of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6, a 35 kW electric motor, and a 10-speed automatic transmission, will provide up to 700 miles of driving range per tank and can also power an onboard generator to keep power flowing on job sites or during power outages.
With any of the F-150’s available powertrains, buyers will be able to select between rear- and four-wheel drive. On our test track, a four-wheel drive Lariat equipped with a hybrid drivetrain reached 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. During our test drive, we observed a comfortable ride and agreeable handling; high-end models, such as the King Ranch, are equipped with a variable-assist steering system that sharpens responses at low speeds for a more nimble feel. The Tremor model features 33-inch all-terrain tires, an upgraded suspension, a locking rear differential, and a four-wheel drive transfer case from the formidable F-150 Raptor. On our test track, the Tremor accelerated to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds, 0.1 seconds behind the more powerful Raptor.
Also Read: 2022 Ford F350 Super Duty Full Review
2023 Ford F-150 Towing Capacity and Payload
The maximum towing capacity of the standard 3.3-liter V-6 engine is 8,200 pounds, while the 400-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 can tow up to 14,000 pounds. Choosing the venerable 5.0-liter V-8 reduces the maximum towing capacity to 13,000 pounds, while the diesel V-6 and hybrid models are capable of 12,100 and 12,700 pounds, respectively. The payload capacity varies between 1,840 and 3,250 pounds. These towing and payload capacities keep the new 2023 Ford F-150 competitive with key competitors such as the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the GMC Sierra 1500, and the Ram 1500.
Energy Efficiency and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates that the F-150’s turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 will achieve up to 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine achieves up to 18 city and 24 highway mpg. The hybrid model is estimated to achieve up to 25 city mpg and 26 highway mpg. The Tremor model with the 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine returned 19 mpg on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which was part of our extensive testing procedure. Once the F-150 hybrid is operational, we can evaluate its real-world mpg. Visit the EPA website for more information about the F-150’s fuel economy.
Cargo, Comfort, and Interior
Especially in the Ford‘s top-tier King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited models, the F-150’s interior appointments rival those of the Ram 1500’s luxurious cabin. The cabin features an abundance of storage compartments and premium materials throughout. Additional convenience features are designed to aid those who use the F-150 as a mobile office. For instance, the shift lever of a 10-speed automatic can be folded flat along with the center console to create a large, flat workspace. Similarly, the F-150 can be ordered with front seats that can be folded down into a bed. The four-door crew-cab body style is the most spacious and family-friendly of the available configurations. In the rear of the F-150 is a bed. Optional onboard generator provides up to 7.2 kW of electrical power for job sites and tailgating parties.
Informational Entertainment and Connectivity
Standard is an 8.0-inch infotainment display that runs an enhanced version of Ford‘s Sync 4 software, while a 12.0-inch display is available as an option. This is comparable to the Ram 1500’s optional 12.0-inch vertically oriented display, but the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra offer larger 13.4-inch displays. Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are standard; navigation, SiriusXM radio, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system are optional. The new software of Sync 4 provides over-the-air updates for future software releases, traffic and weather updates via the optional navigation system, and onboard telematics for fleet customers to track vehicle location and utilization.
2023 Ford F-150 Diesel
The 2023 Ford F-150 Diesel will be one of the most capable trucks in its class. In addition, the new generation of pickups will make it more comfortable, convenient, attractive and safe. Pulling force is reached to the maximum with the Powerstroke unit. Ford produces the oil burner itself and does not share the truck manufacturer for third party power.
When it comes to towing, the pickup truck will be the best in its class. But expect a lot of promotions from the competition. The Ram 1500 diesel came close, while General Motors made a fatal mistake by capping the Silverado at just £9,500. It won’t take long. The good thing is that Japanese truck manufacturers have abandoned such units. Nissan has discontinued the 5.0 turbo diesel for the Titan XD, while the Tundra diesel is officially out. Toyota may add another small oil burner to the Tacoma.
Engineers won’t reset the 3.0-liter turbo diesel under the hood of the F-150. Oil burners are running out of time because the entire industry is getting greener. However, truck manufacturers will use the remaining years to maximize the performance of their vehicles. The 2023 Ford F-150 Diesel will be able to tow up to 12,500 lbs. Good coordination is essential, of course.
2023 Ford F-150 Diesel Specifications
Under the hood of the 2023 Ford F-150 Diesel is a 3.0-liter Powerstroke engine. The turbocharged V6 diesel engine can produce 250 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. The Ram 1500 and Silverado 1500 could offer more, but the F-150 pulls more than 12,500 pounds. A ten-speed automatic transmission sends power to all wheels. The 2023 YM can add RWD as an optional engine to improve fuel economy. The all-wheel drive system puts in 20/27 mpg, which is better than most gasoline engines can do.
2023 Ford F-150 Diesel Changes
Updates to the 2023 Ford F-150 Diesel will be cosmetic, as will the rest of the lineup. Blue Oval is about to introduce a new generation of pickup truck with many changes. But designers won’t go far in experimentation. The front grille has been reworked, giving a completely new view of the car. However, more attention is paid to the powertrain. The Powerstroke unit has not yet been reset. We’ll move on to the rest of the lineup later. Now let’s focus on the redesign.
The working mule becomes more durable and reliable thanks to several upgrades. The company rearranged trim levels and made the interior more comfortable. Three different cab configurations are available. You can also combine it with a short or long bed and different trim levels. The Launch Edition offers only an oil burner with the XLT package. We’ll see more options for powertrain configuration in the future.
Also Read: 2023 Ford Ranger Full Review
Hybrid vs Diesel
Evolution begins with the next generation F-Class truck. The first hybrid engine is here. We expected the configuration to deliver at least 30 mpg for the gasoline engine. Instead, engineers use the hybrid version of the high-performance V6 mill just for the high performance. We’re used to seeing a 3.5-liter twin-turbo engine making 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft for the Raptor. Now a lighter version called the Tremor produces 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft, while the new Raptor R arrives in numbers that make it competitive with the Ram 1500 TRX Hellcat.
Anyway, the question is – how will the hybrid engine affect a 2023 Ford F-150 Diesell? Well, we have been hearing rumors about this type of engine for a long time. Plus, it’s one step closer to being fully electric. Ford has had to speed up development since Tesla actually launched the Cybertruck. General Motors is also building a new Hummer. Blue Oval wants to be competitive in all sectors. Response to the powerful Hellcat was quick and we’d expect the same from the electric version. Cleaner engines are the future. Oil burners are more environmentally friendly than ever, but their emissions are very high and standards are becoming more stringent around the world.
2023 Ford F-150 Diesel Other engines
We have already mentioned quite a few power plants for the F-150. The base truck uses a 3.3-liter V6 with 290 horsepower and 265 pound-feet. This can be carried over to the midrange, as one of the Ranger’s options. A 2.7-liter V6 could replace it with 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft. However, truck drivers may complain about the turbo sluggishness.
The real deal comes with the V8. The 5.0-liter engine is good with 400 horsepower, which is still not the leading power in the lineup. The 3.5-liter V6 engine comes with a twin-turbo system. The maximum output truck drivers can get is 450 horsepower. The hybrid lowers power to 430 horsepower, but increases torque from 510 to 570 lb-ft. The base configuration is now available with 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R
According to reliable sources, Ford will start production of the high-performance 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R next year, and the latest spy photos indicate that the upcoming variant will be more aggressive than the current Raptor. Additionally, the Ford Predator will likely use a 5.2-liter supercharged V8.
If you’re not familiar with this engine, it powers the Shelby GT500 Mustang. This engine produces 760 hp. According to some rumors, the new R model will be around 750 hp. Without further ado, let’s take a look at everything we currently know about this all-new model.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R offers amazing performances
Despite the visual and interior improvements, the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R’s engine is a standout feature. The expected high-performance pickup will almost certainly be powered by the Mustang Shelby GT500 engine. As you no doubt know, this engine is among the most powerful in its class, producing 760 horsepower. On the other hand, this Raptor R version will make a little less.
Many reliable sources expect power between 720 and 750 horsepower. In addition to the mechanical upgrades over the regular model, the R One will have reinforced suspension and larger wishbones. The latest Raptor is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, well below the 700 horsepower of the Ram TRX. However, it looks like the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R will compete directly with the legendary Rebel TRX truck.
Also Read: 2022 Ford F-250 Super Duty
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R Interior Details
The interior of the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R will be sportier than the standard Raptor. Notably, it will be spacious and contemporary, with orange accents reminiscent of the Shelby GT500 Mustang. It also gets a lot of carbon fiber and has new shift paddles.
We think the powerful Raptor will have a new infotainment system and significantly more supportive seats. Additionally, we expect an increase in safety ratings and the addition of more standard features.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R Exterior Design
We don’t expect any major design differences between the regular Raptor and the R variant. There are a few spyshots available and the 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R is very similar to the Raptor. For starters, the upgraded model was equipped with a five-link rear suspension, larger wishbones and a new rail. This makes it more impact resistant than the standard version. Moreover, it is equipped with Fox shock absorbers with new coil springs.
According to the manufacturer Blue Oval, the setup has 14 inches of front travel and 15 inches of rear travel. Compared to the regular Raptor, the Model R has a much larger hood, front hood and slightly modified tailgate. The overall design is clearly very aggressive and modern.
2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R Price and release date
The 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor R will be a high-performance car with a more aggressive look than the standard Raptor. Unfortunately, this remarkable model is still shrouded in mystery. As already mentioned, production of the new model will begin early next year. While pricing information isn’t provided at this time, we think the R version will cost around $60,000 or a little more.
source : http://ford.com
