What year was the best Ford pickup truck?
Ford has been a leader in the pickup truck market for decades, producing some of the most reliable, powerful, and innovative trucks on the road. With so many great models over the years, it’s no surprise that enthusiasts often debate which year produced the best Ford pickup truck. Let’s dive into the history and highlight one of the standout years for Ford pickups.
The Contender: 2017 Ford F-150
While opinions may vary, many experts and truck enthusiasts agree that the 2017 Ford F-150 stands out as one of the best years for Ford pickup trucks. This model year brought together a perfect blend of innovation, performance, and practicality, making it a favorite among drivers and critics alike.
Why the 2017 Ford F-150 Stands Out
Here are some of the key reasons why the 2017 Ford F-150 is often considered one of the best Ford pickup trucks:
- Advanced Aluminum Body: The 2017 F-150 featured a military-grade aluminum alloy body, which significantly reduced the truck's weight without compromising durability. This innovation improved fuel efficiency and handling.
- Powerful Engine Options: The 2017 model offered a range of engines, including the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, which delivered an impressive 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission for smoother performance.
- Best-in-Class Towing and Payload: With a towing capacity of up to 12,200 pounds and a payload capacity of 3,270 pounds, the 2017 F-150 was a workhorse capable of handling heavy-duty tasks.
- Advanced Technology: The 2017 F-150 came equipped with cutting-edge features like adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, making it both functional and tech-savvy.
- Safety Features: This model earned a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and included features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
Honorable Mentions
While the 2017 Ford F-150 is a standout, other years have also left their mark on the pickup truck world. For example:
- 1997 Ford F-150: This year marked the debut of the 10th generation F-150, featuring a more aerodynamic design and improved ride quality.
- 2004 Ford F-150: The 11th generation brought a fully boxed frame and a more refined interior, setting new standards for comfort and durability.
- 2021 Ford F-150: With hybrid powertrain options and a host of modern tech features, this model year pushed the boundaries of innovation.
Conclusion
While every Ford pickup truck has its strengths, the 2017 Ford F-150 stands out as a pinnacle of design, performance, and innovation. Whether you’re looking for a reliable work truck or a versatile vehicle for everyday use, the 2017 F-150 offers a combination of features that are hard to beat. Of course, the best Ford pickup truck ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences, but the 2017 model is a strong contender for the title.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year was the best Ford truck made?
1974 Ford F-100: Greatest F-Series Truck of All-Time? The 1974 Ford F-100, in my (highly biased) opinion, is the greatest F-Series truck ever produced. Specifically, a 1974 F-100 with Custom (base level) trim, rubber floor mats, and the unloved 360 lump under the hood.
What is the most reliable Ford truck year?
2009-2014: The 12th Generation
The 12th generation of the Ford F-150, produced from 2009 to 2014, is often considered one of the best years to buy a used Ford F-150. These models feature robust construction, a variety of engine choices, and modern conveniences.
What was Ford's most reliable engine?
Reaching over 500,000 miles on average, the 6.7 Power Stroke engine is the best in reliability, with some Ford enthusiasts reporting the success of their diesel engines at 1.3 million miles.
What is Ford's number one truck?
The Ford F-Series® is the best-selling truck in America once again. 48 years and counting. * *Based on CY 1977-2024 total sales through Nov.
Which Ford F-150 engine is best?
For the best capability available, you'll want to go with the 3.5L EcoBoost Turbocharged V6 and the remarkable capacities it offers; just remember that you need to choose the right combination of options to take advantage of everything it can do.
What is the most sought after old Ford truck?
The 1965 Ford F-100 is a highly sought-after classic truck that boasts: A unique design. A range of robust engine options.
What year is the F-150 best to buy used?
2009-2014: The 12th Generation
- 2009: The 2009 model year marked the beginning of the 12th generation of the Ford F-150, and it came with significant improvements.
- 2012: The 2012 Ford F-150 is often highlighted as one of the best Ford F-150 years to buy used.
What year is F-150 to avoid?
If you want an F-150, but also want to avoid engine problems, then avoid model years 2004-2008, 2010, and 2015-2017.
What's the best Ford truck to buy?
When it comes to pickup trucks, the Ford F-150 stands tall as America's best-selling option. Its impressive combination of durability, power, and versatility makes it one of the top choices for everyone.
What are the best years for a Ford F250?
Best Ford F-250 Trucks to Buy Used
- 2009 Ford F-250 Super Duty. The 2009 Ford F-250 is one of the most reliable Ford F-250 trucks due to its upgraded interior panels, gauges, and lumbar adjustable seats.
- 2011 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
- 2015 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
- 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
- 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty.
