Ford has done an impressive job on its Super Duty series of trucks for the 2017 model year. With improvements in all aspects, the redesign has brought substantial upgrade over the previous generation of these trucks. New models are tougher, more powerful and refined and thanks to newly installed technology smarter than ever. Much improved chassis and underpinning combined with more powerful engines guarantee impressive towing capabilities unmatched by the rivals and in the case, that you need to handle absolutely massive towing the Ford F-450 should be your choice. This one and a half truck version will come soon as the 2018 Ford F-450 but mostly unchanged.
2018 Ford F-450: Design, Structure
If you are waiting for the new 2018 Ford F-450 version, you should know that this model won’t bring any significant upgrade to the game since this model came new from the ground up for the 2017 MY. Another important fact is that this truck comes only in the crew cab form and with standard four-wheel drive, dual rear wheels and 8-foot cargo bed.
On the other hand, like the other versions from the Super Duty series, this mighty machine boasts fully boxed frame built from the 95 percent military-grade steel and beefed running gear. The rigidity of the chassis is 24 times improved over the previous generation maximizing in that way torsional strength and payload rating. What’s also the known fact the aluminum used for the body panels saves the weight up to 350 lbs in some versions.
Stylingwise, this version will adopt the design language also seen on the F-250 and F-350 models. The two-bar grille will dominate on model’s front end flanked by C-shaped headlights. The grille will come in different variants depending on the trim level and the same will be with the exterior elements.
Interior, Trims:
inside the cabin will be plenty of space as this model comes with the crew cab only which this model shares with the best-selling F-150. The cabin adds 3 additional inches to the previous version and the level of the equipment and luxury depends on the trim level. The model will be available in the familiar trim range. There will be XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and top Platinum.
The base version means the black grille and bumpers, 19.5-inch commercial tires, automatic headlights, running boards, etc. Inside it gets the vinyl upholstery, air-conditioning, six speakers, driver information display, etc.
The XLT will add chrome grille and bumpers, keyless entry, cloth carpeting and upholstery, a 4.2-inch display, Sync infotainment system, etc.
The things will become more interesting on the Lariat models. You will enjoy in the leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, power pedals, 10-way power seats, Sync 3 infotainment system with voice commands and 8-inch display and more.
Two top trims will feature unique exterior and trim themes. They will also get upgraded leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, navigation, power and heated steering wheel, multi-contour front seats, etc.
The model will also be available with more than a few advanced safety systems. Driving will be easier thanks to the adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, tire pressure monitoring, etc.
2018 Ford F-450: Powertrains
Ford has upgraded the turbo diesel engine for the last model year and the 2018 Ford F-450 will likely remain the torque leader. The 6.7-liter V-8 diesel engine can produce 440 horsepower and more than impressive 925 pound-feet of torque. In the combination with this engine, Ford will equip a six-speed TorqShift auto gearbox. The four-wheel drive will be standard and the same is with the dual rear wheel setup.
The max payload capacity will be 5, 320 pounds which beats the crew cab F-350 versions but F-350 regular cabs can load more than only available F-450 crew cab. On the other hand, the towing limit will reach class-leading 35, 500 pounds with the gooseneck trailers. The fifth-wheel trailers will allow up to 27, 500 pounds. The towing limit with the conventional trailer will be 21, 000 pounds.
2018 Ford F-450: Release, Price
Ford hasn’t confirmed the price and release date of the 2018 Ford F-450. Slight increase in the price range is possible. However, it should start from around $54, 000 and the Platinum version will exceed $77, 000. We expect model’s arrival late this year.
Gteat information I am a longtime GM owner . The new F- 450 has almost won me over to try a Ford product after so many years with GM.