2021 Ford F-150

Pros: Powerful and economical PowerBoost hybrid powertrain; broad array of body/trim configurations and engines; long list of innovative available convenience and technology features

Cons: Top trim levels get very pricey; interior materials a step behind comparable Ram 1500 models

CG Says: Ford’s best-selling F-150 pickup is redesigned for 2021, gaining many newly available features, including a full-hybrid powertrain and a high-capacity onboard electricity generator. A redesigned version of the high-performance Raptor off-road model returns as a midyear addition to the line. The PowerBoost hybrid powertrain combines a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor for a total of 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. The Pro Power Onboard integrated generator is designed to eliminate the need for a separate electric generator at worksites, campsites, and the like. The top version of Pro Power Onboard generator, which is offered only with the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, can put out 7.2 kilowatts of power, enough for 240-volt, 30-amp outlets. Highlights of the redesigned Raptor model include a muscular twin-turbo 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6, an off-road-fortified chassis with Fox-brand shocks and a five-link rear suspension, and available 37-inch off-road tires. An even-hotter Raptor R model, with a V8 engine, is slated to arrive as a 2022 model. Less extreme than the Raptor is a new F-150 Tremor model with off-road suspension and all-terrain tires. The F-150’s new-generation SYNC 4 infotainment system includes a digital owner’s manual and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and can receive over-the-air software updates for additional capabilities in the future. Other available new features include a power tailgate, Active Park Assist self-parking system, “Max Recline” front seats that can tilt back almost 180 degrees, and Active Drive Assist—a semi-autonomous driving aid that allows hands-free driving on select freeways, provided the driver pays attention to the road ahead. Available safety features include pre-collision automatic braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, intersection assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and automatic high-beam headlights. In addition to the new PowerBoost hybrid, there are five other engines available: a 290-hp 3.3-liter V6, 325-hp turbocharged 2.7-liter V6, 400-hp 5.0-liter V8, 400-hp turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, and 250-hp turbodiesel 3.0-liter V6. All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and 4-wheel drive is available on all. The redesigned F-150 is a technological tour de force that offers a broad array of powertrains and trim levels, as well as thoughtful features for both work and play that are unmatched by any class rivals. The F-150 has long been the best-selling truck in America, and the new version is especially well positioned to continue that tradition.