2019 Ford F-150 Test Drive Review: The Champion For A Reason
There's not much to say about the Ford F-150 that the mention of a few key facts cannot convey. That includes the F-150's status as not only the best-selling truck in America for decades but the best selling vehicle in all of the United States for 40 years, the 4,147,200 possible combinations in which it can be had, and the way it can make crucial changes to its ingredients without bucking customers from the brand. Whatever it is about the F-150, whether its Ford's mastery of a mass-produced body-on-frame vehicle that it's harnessed since the Model T or its reputation as simply one of the best trucks around, it's been a smash-hit pretty much since the F-Series variant was unveiled in 1975.
What's the Price of the 2019 Ford F-150?
The 2019 Ford F-150 offers a vehicle at every competitive price point, starting with the base XL which retails for an MSRP of $28,155 in Regular Cab spec. Regular Cab prices are the lowest across the entire range: the XLT starts at $34,160 and climbs to $41,700 for the higher spec Lariat. The King Ranch is the first model to reach the $50k mark and is priced at $52,390. The Platinum is slightly dearer at $54,920 and the range-topping Limited F-150 will cost you $67,135. Expect to pay around $3,000 extra to move the XL and XLT up to a SuperCab, and another $3,000 for SuperCrew status.
Best Deals on 2019 Ford F-150
2019 F-150 Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width |
---|---|---|---|
209.3 in | 122.0 in | 75.5 in | 79.9 in |
Exterior Colors
2019 F-150 Performance
Engine and Transmission
Handling and Driving Impressions
And because Ford offers the F-150 in such a large variety of configurations, the aluminum-bodied truck handles differently depending on how it's optioned. The 3.0-liter Duramax Diesel, for example, exhibits exemplary truck handling behavior, remaining as stable as a body-on-frame vehicle should and being highly controllable, ensuring that confidence on the freeways is high. The F-150 Limited, on the other hand, feels like a long-wheelbase sedan on the road rather than a truck. With large wheels and a suspension system that's both comfortable yet not so pliable that it encourages vast amounts of body roll, the drive is more dynamic and connected in the corners. The Limited's center of gravity feels lower, too, but the aforementioned wheels and the buttoned-down suspension also transmit more bumps and road imperfections into the cabin. The steering also feels lighter, helping the Limited better make its way around parking lots and tighter city roads, but not being too loose as to make keeping the rig steady on the freeway a chore.
The F-150 Limited, essentially, comes off as a pickup that's geared towards luxury buyers who want a capable truck but will spend most if not all of their time on surface streets. But being an F-150, capability can be added one way or another.
2019 F-150 Interior
Seating and Interior Space
2019 F-150 Trunk and Cargo Space
2019 F-150 Safety and Reliability
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|
3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
---|---|
4/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2019 Ford F-150 A Good truck?
The Ford F-150 is not just a good car (or truck), it's a fantastic one. Though Chevrolet, GMC, and Ram all have newer entrants in the segment, the F-150 remains far ahead of its General Motors counterparts despite the 13th generation's somewhat apparent age. Dynamically and visually, it outperforms the Silverado while also feeling more upscale. The Ram gives the F-150 serious competition, especially in the handling department, and it's more upscale Limited model is the luxury truck to seek out over the Limited F-150. But the F-150 Limited is still the superior luxury truck when compared with the GMC Sierra Denali and the 3.0-liter diesel F-150 we drove is by far one of the most satisfying drives we've had behind the wheel of a rig.
What Ford F-150 Model Should I Buy?
Recommending one particular F-150 is not really possible because so much depends on what a user's needs are. However, if looking for an upscale truck with all the latest technology, a luxurious, comfortable, yet capable ride, and a powertrain made of dreams, the 3.0-liter Duramax-equipped F-150 is the place to go. While the F-150 Limited certainly has the exterior looks, toys, and interior materials (though not fit and finish) to play the luxury truck part, it feels out of place, like Clint Eastwood trying to play James Bond. Something about it just feels like it's not quite finished being developed. That will probably change when Ford debuts a newly-refreshed F-150 in 2020 or 2021, but for now, it's best to stick with the F-150 that the Blue Oval knows how to make best.
2019 Ford F-150 Comparisons
2019 Ford F-150 vs Ram 1500
The F-150 and Ram 1500 aren't good selling trucks, they're the best selling trucks, and are actually some of the best selling vehicles in America, period. The hard-fought contest for best pickup has been raging for decades, and for 2019, both Ford and Dodge have delivered the goods. One thing the Dodge offers more of is trim levels. At ten trim models, the Dodge Ram offers almost twice the amount of options as Ford's six, but the F-150 does come with a boatload of optional packages. Top level engines are quite different: The Ford's Ecoboost V6 offers big power, but the Dodge's big diesel brings back better gas mileage. The Ram beats the F-150 in terms of interior tech and features, but both have come a long way in terms of interior quality. Base models start off on a relatively equal footing. For most, the choice will come down to brand loyalty.
2019 Ford F-150 vs Chevrolet Silverado 1500
The Silverado falls short when it comes to engine choices, but that will soon change, as Chevy is planning to bring in a few more power plants, including a turbo diesel. The F-150 can't quite match the Silverado for interior options, the latter of which boasts niche tech such as active noise cancellation and power-adjustable pedals. Both start at an MSRP in the mid 30k range, but the Ford manages to beat the Chevy by a few hundred bucks, and the base model Ford XL beats the Silverado The higher spec F-150's make use of a smooth ten-speed auto, while the Silverado shifts through an eight-speed auto. The Ford tends to be slightly more fuel efficient across the range.