Here’s a little food for thought. What attributes do you look for when purchasing a truck? No two drivers are exactly the same, and different people utilize trucks for very different reasons. For some, the appeal of a powerful engine that can conquer the road or any job that life throws their way is what they want and need. For others, towing prowess and the capability to carry a larger than average payload is the top priority. Or perhaps you don’t need a workhorse. Maybe you just want a comfortable vehicle that emphasizes safety or style in ways that you can’t get from a sedan or SUV. Whatever the reasons may be, there are many factors that go into purchasing the perfect pickup. While your reasons might be different than the ones we mentioned, a 2021 Ford F-150 will cater to a variety of whims. While you might only need one reason to get an F-150, we’ve compiled five.
A Pedigree Like None Other
There are certain brands that need little to no introduction and seem to thrive with a reputation that precedes them. The Ford F-150 has certainly amassed a notable reputation and sits proudly in the cultural lexicon of Americana. This proud pickup traces its lineage back to 1975, when Ford first introduced it. Since those humble beginnings, the F-150 has gone on to become the most popular pickup on the road today. And you can rest assured that such an achievement doesn’t come from resting on your laurels. If this is any indication of its quality, then maybe it’s time you join the winners’ circle.
More Engine Options Than Anyone Else
While the F-150 exemplifies the rugged individualism of the American working class, it also knows that there is no be-all-end-all when it comes to finding the perfect engine. To this end, Ford champions the individuality of its customers by offering a variety of engines that work for every type of driver.
- 3.3L V6: With 290 ponies and 265 lb-ft of torque, you’ll never hear the phrase “firing on all six cylinders” and not think of the F-150. For those who are looking to save some money on fuel costs, a combined 21 MPG will do the trick just fine.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: A Ford F-150 is an investment, and this engine will make sure you get the most for your money. A life span of over 200,000 miles means it will go the distance for you, and with a 325 horsepower rating, you’ll have plenty to brag about (400 lb-ft of torque and a towing capacity of up to 10,100 lbs isn’t too shabby, either).
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: The big brother of the 2.7L EcoBoost, you can be assured that this engine is pulling its weight. Up to 13,000 lbs can be towed with relative ease, and a max payload of 3,325 lbs means you’ll have enough capacity to carry that extra cargo. When it comes to performance, 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque will make the earth move for you.
- 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel: One of the most surprising developments in recent years has been the resurgence of the diesel engine. Known for being incredibly effective at low RPMs, Ford’s turbocharged offering not only has a combined 23 MPG, but it also generates 440 lb-ft of torque. With the capability of towing up to 12,100 lbs, you’ll have all the bases covered.
- 5.0L V8: While some swear by the newer turbocharged V6 and diesel options, there are some who will always rely on eight cylinders to deliver the goods. For those who do, Ford won’t let you down. With an unbridled 400 ponies and an astounding 410 lb-ft of torque, this engine will whet the appetite of anyone who desires a good old-fashioned V8.
Staying Safe for Additional Peace of Mind
While earth-shaking engines and large towing capacities are certainly appealing, they will always pale in comparison to staying safe. You have enough on your plate to worry about, so shouldn’t you have complete peace of mind in knowing you’re in a safe vehicle? Well, now you can. Today’s vehicles have a wide variety of driver-assist technology to afford you more protection than ever before. While these will never replace responsible driving, Ford includes a few that will certainly help. Available adaptive cruise control will provide much-needed assistance during those long road trips, and standard emergency braking and pedestrian detection keep you safe when you’re driving within the city limits. The 2021 Ford F-150 also received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Tests don’t lie, and neither do agencies whose job it is to look after the public’s best interests.
Going Electric
When journalists and writers in the automotive industry talk about various makes and models, the first goal is finding out what’s new for that model year. We tend to look at new features or additions that set one apart from the competition and report to consumers the advantages contained therein. For Ford, 2021 was the year of a major innovation that changed the public understanding of not just the F-150, but of the pickup in general.
For the first time ever, the F-150 came in a hybrid edition. A 3.5L turbocharged V6 was partnered with a 1.5 kWh lithium-ion battery and electric motors to lend incredible performance to a vehicle that was already guaranteed to turn heads. The 430 ponies of hybrid horsepower and an unrelenting 570 lb-ft of torque make the ground shake in intimidation. This entry into the storied history of the F-150 travels from 0-60 mpg in an astonishing 5.3 seconds yet still boasts a fuel economy of 25 MPG combined. The future is here, and the hybrid F-150 is now.
Interior Motive
Along with performance and safety, having a comfortable ride is of great importance. While a 10-speed transmission will certainly make for smooth acceleration, the real treat for the senses will be the interior that Ford has given special care to. An 8″ infotainment center is standard, while an available 12″ screen will make items more visible than they’ve ever been on previous models. An updated version of Ford’s software creates a Wi-Fi hotspot and is Apple and Android compatible.
The cabin of the F-150 is more comfortable and inviting than it’s ever been, with an array of storage areas and workplace options, as well as a 7.2 KW generator to give you that little bit of extra convenience when it’s needed most. The amenities that Ford has designed this time around are the perfect counterpoint to its workhorse performance and blanket of safety. You could say it’s the perfect trifecta.
Final Thoughts on the 2021 Ford F-150
While we’re sure that any of these five reasons (or all of them, for that matter) could encourage you to buy a 2021 Ford F-150, in the end, the choice is yours. With so much to offer and a trusted and time-honored legacy, owning an F-150 is an investment that pays off in spades. When we compile lists such as these, we look at the attributes that cannot be ignored. The auto industry is a place where one often has to read the fine print to notice the differences between makes and models. However, the 2021 Ford F-150 is truly a workhorse of a different color. After all, reputation does a good job at speaking for itself.
