Following the redesign of the light-duty pickup models for the 2019 model year, Ram and General Motors introduced recently the all-new, heavy-duty versions with more capability and sophistication than ever. But the leading brand in the truck industry answered also with the refreshed Ford Super Duty Series and the upgrades are introduced on all front. The three-quarter-ton F-250 and one-ton F-350 will provide more power and capability combined with the upgraded tech and materials and with tweaked styling. However, for the customer who wants to draw the most of the capability from the non-commercial fleet, the largest 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty should be the choice.
The refreshed Ford Super Series comes with the familiar duo of the engine options including the turbocharged diesel unit but to split the difference between them, Ford expanded the range with the new naturally aspirated 7.3-L, V-8 unit. The powertrain range introduced also the new 10-speed automatic transmission and Ford upgraded also the list of the active safety and trailering systems. The new engine and transmission debuts also with the refreshed styling and models gained also new materials inside the cabin. Unfortunately, Ford still keeps the specs of the engine range and towing capability from the public but the improvements of the all-new rivals won’t surely stay unanswered.
2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty: Powertrains
The big news for the Ford Super Duty range is the introduction of the new, V-8 petrol engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford upgraded also the Power Stroke V-8 diesel engine and the proven 6.2-liter V-8 engine will also return. The brand hasn’t yet disclosed the performance of the upgraded powertrain range.
A new 7.3L V-8 petrol:
The Super Duty models get the new, naturally aspirated 7.3-liter V-8 petrol engine which Ford promises to be the most powerful gas-sipping V-8 in the class. The Blue Oval Brand wasn’t specific about the power and torque numbers but the engine should split the capability between the familiar gasoline and diesel V-8 units. The engine has cast iron block and forged steel crankshaft for improved durability and combined with overhead valve setup. The unit employs also port injection and variable valve timing while the oil jets keep the pistons at the optimal temperature. The current F-450 is available with the turbodiesel engine only and it’s not clear yet would the new V-8 petrol be available with the 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty.
Upgraded Power Stroke V-8 Diesel:
However, Ford also reworked the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine which should respond on Ram’s 1000 lb-ft of torque with the upgraded Cummins inline -6. Ford’s diesel unit benefits from the new variable geometry turbocharger for better throttle response and improved injectors which should provide quieter operation. The new model has also the improved strength of engine’s block, heads, pistons, bearing and rods. All should lead to improved performance from the current 450 horsepower and 935 lb-ft of torque.
The turbocharged diesel and new V-8 petrol will also be in the combination with the new 10-speed automatic transmission. The reworked gearbox version from the light-duty F-150 for the heavy-duty jobs should also provide some performance benefits and smoother operation.
2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty: Design
The Super Duty models switched to the high-strength steel underpinning and aluminum-intensive body for the recent 2017 model year redesign and the 2020 model year brings refreshed styling. Ford mentioned also some chassis upgrades for the new model year but hasn’t said the details yet.
The 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty and other versions get the refreshed front-end design with the focus to provide better cooling and lighting performance under heavy work. The dual-rear-wheel setup models get the unique grille design for the increased airflow and better cooling. Ford claims also that the reworked headlights provide better lighting performance.
The Super Duty models come also with the reworked front and rear bumpers and utility hooks. The changes include also new signature daytime running lights, three new taillight designs and seven new wheel styles.
Interior, Equipment:
Inside the cabin of the refreshed Ford Super Series, there are also several novelties and Ford equipped also the new version with the modern tech features.
The Platinum trim gets the new Onyx Argento wood trim while the Limited trim comes with the black coarse ash wood.
The Super Duty Series has also received the Pro Trailer Backup Assist system which makes maneuvering of the large trailers in tight locations easier. The truck uses also autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring. Available are also 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging. The Sync 3 infotainment platform with smartphone compatibility continues from the current version.
2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty: Release, Price
The 2020 Ford F-450 Super Duty will reach the showrooms this fall. Closer to the that, Ford will reveal the engine range specs, towing and price. The new version should lift the price slightly considering extensive upgrades. The base F-450 version should start just below $50, 000.