The Ford SuperDuty
Ford’s heavy-duty trucks were updated for the 2017 model year, which means they all have aluminum alloy bodies. The switch enabled Ford to cut up to 350 pounds from some of its beefiest trucks. The lighter body is paired with a new and more powerful diesel V8. The 6.7-liter turbodiesel makes 440 horsepower and up to 925 lb-ft of torque. The other engine option is a flex fuel V8 — it can also run on E85 — that makes 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.
Ford’s SuperDuty trucks come in three flavors – the F-250, F-350, and F-450. Between those three models, there are 15 trims to choose from. Prices range from $32,255 for the entry-level F-250 to $77,325 for the F-450 Platinum. The F-250 offers a max tow and payload ratings of 18,600 pounds and 4,150, respectively. Stepping up to the F-350 increases your max tow rating to 32,000 pounds and your maximum payload capacity to a staggering 7,630 pounds. The F-450 can tow a whopping 32,500 pounds, but it has less payload capacity than the F-350 at just 5,320 pounds.
Image via Ford Motor Company
How They Stack Up
When it comes to heavy duty trucks, there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, “max” capacities usually come with caveats. For example, the only way you’ll ever hit a truck’s max payload capacity is if you opt for a regular cab model. Once you start adding more cabin space you reduce the amount of stuff you can haul in the bed. This is true across all makes and models. Also, when it comes to max towing capacity you’re talking about a gooseneck trailer, as in a trailer that is attached to a ball hitch mounted in the bed. At least, that’s the case when Ford talks about hauling limits.
Another thing to consider is whether or not you really need a heavy-duty truck. If you’re a weekend warrior who goes camping occasionally, you’re probably better off with a standard pickup. Due to their size, heavy duty trucks get bad mileage and are a lot harder to negotiate in cities, especially the models with dual rear wheels. Heavy duty trucks are also more expensive. If you’re going to pay extra, you should ensure that you’re actually going to use all those capabilities. Those big diesel engines don’t come cheap after all.
If cost is a concern, it’s hard not to recommend the Ram heavy-duty trucks. That being said, those models are all a bit older, and comparable offerings from Chevrolet and Ford aren’t all that more expensive. In terms of luxury, you can’t beat the heavy-duty Sierras, which are famed for the quietness of their cabins.
Overall. the best bets are Ford’s SuperDuty trucks. They’re newer, lighter, and more powerful than the competition. Ford’s advantage won’t last forever, though. Out of all the American automakers, it was the one that most recently introduced new heavy-duty models. Both Ram and GM should have newer heavy-duty models out soon.
Image via Ford Motor Company
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