The Ford F-150 continues its ongoing evolution, with a styling update, new 3.0-liter diesel engine, and more advanced safety features for 2018. A hybrid variant is on the horizon. The F-150 gains a new base 282-hp, 3.3-liter direct-injection V6. The updated 2.7-liter V6 and the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 will be teamed with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 is updated, as well, with more horsepower and torque. Automatic start/stop is standard across the range. The F-150 gains pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, 4G LTE WiFi, and an uplevel B&O Play audio system.

Ford's big-selling pickup truck has an all-aluminum body, which saves about 700 pounds over steel. Engine choices include a 3.5-liter V6, 2.7- and 3.5-liter turbo V6s, and a 5.0-liter V8. For 2017 the 3.5-liter turbo gets an optional 10-speed automatic; other models use a six-speed automatic. We tested the 2.7- and 3.5-liter turbo engines, and each delivered abundant power. In our tests the 2.7 got 17 mpg overall, 1 mpg better than the turbo 3.5. The 2.7 is also surprisingly quicker from 0 to 60 mph. The cabin is very quiet, but the ride is jittery and handling is rather ponderous. Safety offerings include forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Other notable features include a 360-degree-view camera and integrated loading ramps. Reliability has dropped to below average.

A redesigned F-150 arrived for 2015 with an aluminum body that saved 700 pounds for better fuel economy. Our tested crew-cab models were cavernously proportioned front and rear. Both were almost tomb-silent as well. The driving position is comfy and roomy, while the standard tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and optional power-adjustable pedals accommodate truckers of all shapes and sizes. While large windows and relatively narrow pillars provide good visibility, a rearview camera was an option. The towing package adds an integrated trailer brake controller, towing mirrors, and a revised rear axle ratio. We'd get the XLT or higher trim, as the basic XL work-truck version limits the availability of desirable comfort and safety features.

Freshened in 2009, the F-150 gained standard stability control. A revised six-speed automatic transmission also produced better fuel economy. Handling was secure and braking performance was also vastly improved, though some testers complained about poor feel from the pedal. A spacious interior and a deep cargo bed are also pluses. On the other hand, the ride is stiff and the engine sounds unrefined when pressed. However, road noise is held to a whisper and wind rush barely exceeds background levels. Crash-test results and cabin storage are impressive, while Ford's Sync system provides voice control for phone calls and music players.

The 2004 redesign endowed the Ford F-150 with ride and handling improvements, including a tight (for a full-size pickup truck) 47 ft. turning circle. Crash-test results also improved significantly. However, braking performance was just adequate in our tests and the powertrain isn't very smooth. On the other hand, offroad performance is commendable, interior comfort is also good and outward visibility is too. The spring assisted tailgate makes loading cargo easier. This version of the Ford F-150 also demonstrates better noise isolation, as well as fit and finish, than its predecessor.

The F-150 is the half-ton version of Ford's best-selling F-Series pickup line. Like most pickups, it offers multiple configurations and powertrains. During our tests, the boxy pre-1997 F-150 rode well and quietly on most roads. Its ride and braking improved with a full load. We found the seats erect, but roomy. Ford completely redesigned the F-150 for 1998, improving comfort, handling, and refinement. An optional third door on extended-cab models became available in 1998, and a fourth door was offered in 1999. The supercharged SVT Lightning serves up sports-car-quality acceleration. A four-door crew-cab was introduced for 2001.