How many generations of F-Series are there?

The Ford F-Series is one of the most iconic and long-running truck lines in automotive history. With over 70 years of continuous production, the F-Series has evolved through numerous generations, each bringing new features, capabilities, and design elements to the table. In this article, we'll explore the various generations of the Ford F-Series and provide a comprehensive overview of this legendary truck line.

The Generations of the Ford F-Series

The Ford F-Series has a rich history, with the first generation debuting in 1948. Since then, the truck line has undergone a total of 14 distinct generations, each building upon the success of its predecessor. Here's a breakdown of the F-Series generations:

• First Generation (1948-1952): The original F-Series trucks, featuring a classic, boxy design and a range of payload capacities.


• Second Generation (1953-1956): Introduced a more modern, streamlined appearance and increased payload capabilities.


• Third Generation (1957-1960): Saw the introduction of the iconic "Styleside" body style, which became a hallmark of the F-Series.


• Fourth Generation (1961-1966): Brought a more angular, squared-off design and continued improvements in payload and towing capacity.


• Fifth Generation (1967-1972): Marked a significant redesign, with a more rounded, aerodynamic appearance and increased engine options.


• Sixth Generation (1973-1979): Introduced the first diesel engine option for the F-Series and featured a more modern, boxy design.


• Seventh Generation (1980-1986): Saw the introduction of the F-150 model, which became the most popular variant of the F-Series.


• Eighth Generation (1987-1991): Brought a more aerodynamic design and improved fuel efficiency, as well as the first four-door SuperCab option.


• Ninth Generation (1992-1996): Introduced a more rounded, "aero" design and offered the first four-door SuperCrew cab configuration.


• Tenth Generation (1997-2003): Saw a significant redesign, with a more muscular, aggressive appearance and increased payload and towing capacities.


• Eleventh Generation (2004-2008): Brought a more modern, sculpted design and continued improvements in performance and capability.


• Twelfth Generation (2009-2014): Introduced a more aerodynamic, fuel-efficient design and offered the first EcoBoost turbocharged engine option.


• Thirteenth Generation (2015-2020): Saw a significant weight reduction through the use of aluminum body panels, as well as increased towing and payload capacities.


• Fourteenth Generation (2021-present): The latest iteration of the F-Series, featuring a bold, modern design and a range of advanced technology and safety features.

Each generation of the Ford F-Series has built upon the success of its predecessor, introducing new innovations, design elements, and capabilities to meet the evolving needs of truck buyers. The F-Series has remained a consistent leader in the full-size truck market, thanks to its combination of power, versatility, and enduring popularity.

How many generations of Ford F-Series are there?

fourteenth generation
The most popular version of the model line is the F-150 pickup truck, currently in its fourteenth generation (introduced for the 2021 model year). From 1953 to 1983, the entry-level F-Series pickup was the 1⁄2 ton F-100.

What year is the 14th gen F-150?

The 14th generation Ford F-150 includes the model years 2021 to the present. This generation introduced a redesign, a hybrid powertrain option, and new technology like the Pro Power Onboard generator and advanced driver-assist features.
 

• 2021-Present: The current 14th generation F-150 has been in production since the 2021 model year. 
• Key features introduced: This generation is notable for its hybrid (PowerBoost) powertrain option, available Pro Power Onboard generator, redesigned interior with a larger infotainment screen, and enhanced connectivity and driver-assist technologies. 
• Mid-generation refresh: The 2024 model year brought a significant mid-cycle refresh with a new exterior design, a new Pro Access Tailgate, and the introduction of the Blue Cruise hands-free driving system as an option, notes Autolist. 

Is there a Ford F850?

Yes, the Ford F-850 exists as a heavy-duty commercial truck, and there are also older models and custom-built versions of the F-850. While the modern Ford Super Duty lineup stops at the F-750, the F-850 is a real, albeit less common, heavy-duty model that is available for sale, says Gator Ford.
 
This video explains the power and capabilities of the 2026 Ford F-850 concept: 44sAuto mobileYouTube · Oct 14, 2025

• Modern F-850s: New Ford F-850 Super Duty trucks are available as commercial vehicles for tasks like towing, and they are distinct from the F-650 and F-750 which are part of the standard Ford Super Duty lineup. 
• Older and custom models: Many F-850s that are seen are classic or heavily modified versions. For example, there are custom-built 1960s F-850s with features like crew cabs and powerful engines. 
• Distinct from other models: The F-850 is not the same as the Ford F-250, F-350, or other trucks in the F-Series lineup. It is a heavy-duty commercial vehicle, often used for commercial purposes rather than as a typical pickup truck. 

This video shows a custom-built 1960 Ford F-850 crew cab: 54sFord EraYouTube · Jul 28, 2024

Which F-150 years are worth avoiding?

2004-2008
We recommend avoiding 2004-2008 F150 models due to spark plug ejection issues with the 5.4L V8 engine. The 2015-2016 models, while not bad, had some early aluminum body production quirks that Ford resolved in later years. Always research specific model years and have any used truck inspected before purchase.