Ford Motor Co.'s most popular vehicle, the F-150 full-size pickup, has undergone a total redesign for 2004. Highlights for commercial truck users include two rear panels for access to behind-the-seat storage, a more powerful and efficient 5.4L V8, a fully boxed frame, payload capacities up to 2,900 lb. and a 9,500-lb. towing capacity.
The new F-150 is offered with three distinct cabs — a regular two-door cab with rear-opening access panels, a SuperCab with a second row of seats and rear-opening doors, and a SuperCrew with two rows of seats and four full-size doors. Further configurations choices include 8-, 6.5-, and 5.5-ft. cargo beds and five trim levels, all available with either 4×2 or 4×4 drivetrains.
The F-150's base 4.6L Triton V8 is a carry-over from the previous model, producing 231 hp. and 293 lb.-ft. torque. The new 5.4L Triton includes a number of new technologies, including a 3-valve head, variable cam timing, coil-on-plug ignition, and charge-motion control valves. It's also smaller than the 5.4L V8 it replaces, but more powerful, producing 300 hp. and 365 lb.-ft. of peak torque. It's mated to a new 4-sp. automatic transmission designed to handle the additional torque.
Among the most notable interior changes for fleet applications are increased storage room behind the seats and an overhead rail system with integrated power point in the headliner that allows snap-in overhead mounting for a wide variety of modules such as communications systems, display screens, and tool boxes.
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