Stepping inside the vehicle, either in the cab or in the bed, is easy, thanks to an integrated step in the corners of the rear bumpers, a retractable step on the side of the truck, and the aforementioned automatic running boards.

Once you’re inside the truck, perhaps one of the first things you’ll notice is the leather seats in the “Smoked Truffle” color. These seats feature diamond stitching, which is carried over on the doors, and can be adjusted in all sorts of ways, including lumbar support. Choose a heated or ventilated function in the seats, along with different massage modes that are easily accessed via the infotainment screen. Further, the massage function actually feels like a massage chair, unlike other vehicles I’ve driven that simply move the lumbar support in, out, up, and down and call it a “massage.” 

Right above the seats is a panoramic sunroof that spans the cab from front to back. Speaking of the back, backseat passengers also have the choice of heated seats, and the ample legroom is perfect for a hardworking crew. If there are no passengers, fold up the seats for increased storage space. 

The interior maximizes space to create the perfect mobile office. From a deep center console to a glove box, upper dash storage, and storage on the sides of the console, fleet owners can hide devices, paperwork, and more throughout the cab. 

The truck also offers multiple power outlets, including those designed for cigarette lighter adapters and standard outlet sockets. Charge devices with a USB connection, a USB-C connection, or with the truck’s wireless charging pad. From my count, drivers and occupants have about 10 different ways to charge their devices in the F-450 Platinum.

This particular truck was also upfitted with six auxiliary switches on the ceiling above the rearview mirror, making work functions seamless for fleet owners.

It wouldn’t be Ford’s premium trim without the latest technology. The F-450 Platinum is available with standard safety technology such as adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, and reverse brake assist. 

It also features a head-up display, which drivers can customize to show the speed limit, speedometer, time, temperature, navigation, and other metrics.  

My thoughts on the 2026 Ford F-450

While I loved the way I looked driving around in this big Hoss of a truck, actually driving the truck left much to be desired in terms of its suspension. As an editor at FleetOwner, I drive trucks of all sizes and all Classes. I know that trucks designed to haul heavy loads often run a bit rougher when they’re unloaded, as their suspensions are tuned to accommodate heavier loads. I expected this with the F-450.

However, what I expected compared to what I experienced was completely different. I expected to feel bumps and dips, but what I didn’t expect was to feel every single crack and pebble I drove over. I joked with a friend that this is not the type of vehicle you can apply your lipstick in, and while most of our readers won’t be affected by that statement, my warning to them is to carefully time their sips of coffee with a smooth stretch of road.

I reached out to Ford about why the F-450’s suspension felt nonexistent, but I wasn’t able to connect with an engineer to answer the question.

The truck’s suspension was my biggest complaint about the vehicle, and while the massage seats helped make up for it, they didn’t seem to close the deal. I took the truck across the state of Michigan from Detroit to Grand Rapids and back in one day. The discomfort felt by both my passenger and me was on a larger scale than what I believe should be felt by occupants of any Ford vehicle with the luxurious Platinum trim. 

Aside from the suspension, the truck performed well. I had no issues driving, maneuvering, getting it up to speed, or even parking. Its cameras, sensors, and radars made all the difference in that regard.

The truck achieved decent fuel mileage as well, averaging just over 15 mpg throughout the week I had it. This included significant highway miles on the one day, but mostly city miles throughout the week. 

Should you buy this vehicle for fleet operations? Of course that’s a decision you’ll have to make on your own; but if you’re a fleet owner who wants a new truck or you’re looking for an upgrade for one of your favorite drivers, and you also spend most of your time hauling equipment, I would say this truck should be a contender. If you’d use this truck for any significant amount of time without hauling equipment, my advice would be to save $50,000 and go for the base model of the F-450.

The most basic version of this same truck, the F-450 XL, starts at $63,840 and offers the same capability as the Platinum. While it doesn’t have the creature comforts, the fancy chrome, or the automatic running boards, at least you won’t be paying a premium for a bumpy ride.