2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty Review: Dethroned, But Not Defeated
Ford has always prided itself on giving the USA the most rugged and capable trucks on the market, which is why the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty has a towing capacity that is only 100 pounds behind the Ram 3500HD. Thanks to its extremely durable underpinnings and a monstrous V8 diesel engine that develops 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, this full-size pickup is capable of pulling 37,000 lbs behind it. You can expect a slightly higher figure next year as Ford works to one-up the competition. Aside from this, the F-450 Super Duty pickup is a handsome monster that boasts some great off-road capabilities. Sadly, more effort was put into how it looks from the outside, and the interior takes a hit in terms of quality. This is just another area where the current generation Ram 3500 beats it. Other competent rivals include the Chevy Silverado 3500HD and the related GMC Sierra 3500HD. But, all things considered, there isn't really much to complain about with the Ford, as it definitely does the job it was designed to do.
F-450 Super Duty Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|
231.8 in | 142.0 in | 81.7 in | 96.0 in | 7,712.0 lbs |
F-450 Super Duty Performance
Engine and Transmission
There is only a single engine on offer for the 2021 F-450 Super Duty, but you really don't need anything else. The 6.7-liter turbo diesel 8-cylinder has an incredible amount of grunt, developing 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft. This is wrangled by a 10-speed automatic transmission and directed to the rear wheels, although a four-wheel drivetrain is available. However, these figures are not about endowing the truck with any degree of performance characteristics or off-the-line speed. Instead, it is utilized to haul enormous loads - up to 37,000 lbs in the case of the F-450 Super Duty pickup. Only the Ram 3500 beats this number, and that record likely won't stand for long, if Ford has anything to say about it. With conventional towing, the numbers are still impressive - 24,200 lbs.
F-450 Super Duty Interior
F-450 Super Duty Trunk and Cargo Space
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 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty A Good pickup truck?
When it comes to doing the heaviest menial labor on the planet, the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty is hard to beat, as proven by the fact that only one rival has managed to best its capabilities. However, this would never be enough to sway a true Ford fan away from the brand's most impressive pickup. This is despite the fact that the Ram 3500 also offers a more upscale cabin and more modern features. The differences between the two cars is not so extreme that a clear winner can be declared that easily.
The F-450 is rugged and has excellent reliability expectations, it can go off-road when needed without a fuss, and it handles well on the road, virtually flattening the tarmac beneath to ensure a comfortable ride. You won't find a safety rating or safety review for the 2021 Ford F-40 Super Duty, but don't let that stress you out - it's solidly built, has a full consignment of airbags, and Ford's Co-Pilot360 safety suite. Still, Ford's biggest truck is a great choice if you do a lot of towing, although there are better options out there if that isn't your primary concern.
What Ford F-450 Super Duty Model Should I Buy?
Despite being a highly customizable vehicle, the F-450 was designed to do one thing - tow massive loads. To get the most out of it, then, you need to stick to the basics. This means speccing on the 2-door Regular Cab and rear-wheel drivetrain for lower gross weight. This leaves room to get that 37,000-pound towing rating. Luckily, adding on options like dual-zone climate control or slightly more comfortable upholstery won't impact this one iota. And, since the starting price of the 2021 Ford F-450 Super Duty pickup is just $50,410, you should have the spare cash to gussy it up a little.