By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating:
Claiming the title as America's best-selling full-size pickup for 35 years running is nothing to sneeze at, which is why the 2013 Ford F-150 strikes such awe in its owners and trepidation in its rivals. With a string of modern engines, including a turbocharged V6, and the latest in transmission and 4x4 mechanical componentry, the F-150 shows it isn't resting on its laurels. With an eye on the big jobs only a big truck can do, Ford builds an F-150 for just about every customer, satisfying needs from the dirtiest construction worker to the country-club set trailering their prize horses to show. Equally impressive are the F-150's class-leading capabilities, fuel economy and resale figures.
If you like variety and choice, the 2013 Ford F-150 offers the most comprehensive lineup in the industry. High-end interiors and cutting-edge infotainment and audio options further distance the F-150 from other trucks.
The F-150 is a big truck. If you just need a truck for light-duty jobs, a smaller mid-size will probably be less expensive and easier to maneuver and park.
What's New for 2013
The 2013 Ford F-150 receives a new grille, available MyFord Touch and a new Limited trim that includes navigation, rain-sensing wipers, HID headlights, red and black leather seating and polished 22-inch rims. The Raptor and SX4 models gain standard Hill Descent Control.
Driving Impressions Despite its impressive payload and towing ability, the 2013 Ford F-150 doesn't ride like a stiffly-sprung work truck. In fact, it rides more like a plush Lincoln SUV. Every version...
of the F-150 we tested was devoid of a rough ride, with no shudder or hopping over rough or unpaved roads and a level of quiet unheard of (no pun intended) in a full-size pickup. Each version also provided ample power, with the least-liked engine being the base V6 and the most appreciated being the new twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6. Thanks to the F-150's electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), we experienced a level of steering feel and control that belied the big Ford's size and heft. Perhaps most impressive was the towing demonstration in which we hauled 20-foot trailers with absolutely zero drama, thanks in large part to the pickup's trailer sway control, rearview camera and integrated trailer-brake controller.TAILGATE STEP
Designed to deal with the awkward and potentially dangerous chore of getting into the pickup truck's bed, the integrated tailgate step on the 2013 Ford F-150 scores big. It deploys easily and even offers a convenient hand-hold.
ROOMY SUPERCREW CAB
The cab in the 2013 F-150 SuperCrew is so roomy it out-measures some full-size sedans. In fact, the rear-seat legroom is absolutely limousine-like, and the mechanically-articulated second-row seat flips up and out of the way, delivering an ample 57.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats.
Interior
Knowing that the hands controlling the F-150 will often be clad in some type of glove, be it work or ski, the design team has created buttons, knobs and switches that are slightly oversized, widely spaced and easy to reach. A thoughtful center console design can swallow two or more laptops or tablets; there are even slotted ridges along the sides for holding hanging files in place. There are two 12-volt outlets, one on the dash and one in the console, and an available 110-volt outlet. As for overall comfort, we think the F-150's contoured front seats are among the most comfortable in the class.
Exterior
The 2013 Ford F-150 continues with its traditional boxy exterior but adds a healthy dose of oversized ornamentation (think grille, bumpers and mirrors) usually covered in chrome on upper trims. The 2013 F-150 features a strong new front end, powerful shoulders and a tall bed wall creating a nice, deep box. Those tall bed walls, however, can be a bit of a hindrance when trying to access a tool box or gear in the bed's center. Understanding this problem, Ford offers an extendable side step on most models. Other available features include a tailgate stepladder, extendable side mirrors and HID headlights.
Every 2013 Ford F-150 full-size truck shares a robust, hydro-formed, boxed-section chassis that offers superior torsional rigidity while actually being lighter than the old-fashioned ladder frames of the past. The level of standard safety equipment is truly outstanding, including AdvanceTrac with RSC traction and stability control, anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags with roll-fold technology for enhanced head protection in rollovers and side impacts. Safety is also enhanced by front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, "smart" airbags and seatbelts, a second-row center head restraint and integrated spotter mirrors.
For those who really use their pickup truck as a truck, the 2013 Ford F-150 offers some exclusive options that are right on the money. Our two favorites are the integral tailgate step that makes clambering into the box easy and the spring-out box side step that allows easy access to the deep cargo box. When it's kick-back time, Ford's SYNC, SIRIUS Travel Link and a high-powered Sony brand audio system help you while away the time. And when it's time to hit the road, the MyFord Touch will let you control navigation, music and cell phone all through the power of your voice.
Do you want a gasoline engine or a gasoline engine? The 2013 F-150 offers four of them – two V6s and two V8s – all with reasonable fuel economy, aided significantly by the addition of a 6-speed automatic transmission. A twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 is a first for this segment and an engine that promises both strong performance and good fuel economy. Both the 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8 are fitted with fuel-saving twin-independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) technology and, for towing needs, nothing can beat the two-valves-per-cylinder 6.2-liter V8's best-in-class 11,300-pound tow rating.
3.7-liter V6
302 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
278 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/23 mpg (2WD), 16/21 mpg (4WD), 12/17 mpg (2WD, E85), 11/15 mpg (4WD, E85)
3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
365 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm
420 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/22 mpg (2WD), 15/21 mpg (4WD)
5.0-liter V8
360 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 4,250
EPA city/high fuel economy: 15/21 mpg (2WD), 14/19 mpg (4WD), 11/15 mpg (2WD, E85), 10/14 mpg (4WD, E85)
6.2-liter V8
411 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
434 lb-ft of torque @ 4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/18 (2WD), 12/16 mpg (4WD), 11/16 mpg (Raptor)
With more than 30 different variants, the 2013 Ford F-150 pickup pricing covers a wide spread. Regular Cab XL models have a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) right around $24,600, while a fully-laden Limited SuperCrew can run well over $50,000. Somewhere in between those two extremes is where most buyers will find themselves. A look at the Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com shows the typical transaction price being paid for the 2013 Ford F-150 in your area, so be sure to check it out before you set out to buy. The F-150 is expected to retain a better-than-average residual value, with the SuperCrew models at the top of the chart, followed by the Regular Cab and then the SuperCab. Over a 5-year period, the F-150's projected residual value is expected to be nearly on par with the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra, better than the Ram 1500 and Nissan Titan, but slightly below the Toyota Tundra.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Ford F150 Regular Cab vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 478 Ratings for the 2009 - 2013 models.
Review this carBy Ray (IL) on Monday, June 17, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 32,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Horse power, MPG's and handeling"
Cons: "Breaks"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"I have waited to review the truck after owning/driving it. After 32000 and routine maintenance the truck is running great. I couldn't be happier with the ecoboost. I have pulled a 25' boat amny times and an 18' trailer loaded with rock and haven't had a problem. I have had a minor issue with the rotors warping prematurely, I believe that is due to improperly torqued tire rotations. This is a great truck for long distance MPG's if you not pulling anything, if you are they still are not bad but consider what your pulling and the weight will pull down the MPG's. After 32000 miles the truck is maintaining about 20.1 to 20.3 MPG on a 35 mile one way trip to work, this is city and highway driving."
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By JD Vern (AL) on Friday, June 07, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,400
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Above The Best! Going 4wheeling soon"
Cons: "6 spd auto manual shifter is useless on stalk"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"My new 2013 F-150 SCab w/all XLT packages, rearview camera, bucket seats, 4 X 4 w/ Offroad PKG, 2 tone paint, 3.5L V-6 Ecoboost twin turbos is awesome. Comfortable seats, nice interior, Chrome Rims/Wrangler tires. Nice ride, great milage for a 4 X 4, only wish it had the upgraded Sony stereo and power folding mirrors. I have about 1400 miles on it now. I traded my 2011 F-150 crewcab 2 wheel drive also with the ecoboost motor at 19,000 miles. Absolutely no problems whatsoever, nothing. Well built, tight, no rattles. I originally wanted a 4 X 4 in 2011, but could not find one with the equipment I wanted, is the only reason why I traded. I consistently got 23-24 mpg hwy with 2 wheel drive. I now with the 2013 4 X 4 get around 20-20.5 hwy. I love this truck. Chevy's V-8 and even Ram's 5.7L V-8 can't touch it in torgue and excelleration, even tho the Ram has 390 HP and 405 FT LB torque. The Ford Ecoboost 3.5L V-6 twin turbos has 365 HP and 420 FT LB torque. It has been said over the years that turbos don't like heat and humidity. Living in Southeast Alabama is just that, but no problems with turbo lag or power and torque. Ford got this Engine right. A Man and his truck (FORD) it's a beautiful thing!"
2 people out of 2 found this review helpful
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By Jadd on Monday, May 27, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 93,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Smooth ride, love the Ford Sync"
Cons: "There is a lag between throttle down and go."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"From the rugged exterior to the spacious interior, everything about this truck is top notch. I enjoy driving it around town and on long trips. Very comfortable and smooth. 93K miles and still going strong!"
3 people out of 3 found this review helpful
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By jasonc (CA) on Thursday, May 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 17,300
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "365 HP 450 torque tows 13000 lbs beats allthe comp"
Cons: "none so far"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"absolutely the best truck ive ever owned. V6 twin turbo, fully loaded and great gass milage compaired to the comp. Will keep this truck for years to come"
1 person out of 2 found this review helpful
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By J.L. (AZ) on Friday, May 10, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 700
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "Price, value, gas mileage for a truck this size"
Cons: "I'm not a fan of the Adobe colored seats....."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"After my 2005 ford ranger 4x4 moved on to truck heaven with over 220,000 miles on it. I decided to upgrade to a loaded 2013 F150 XLT reg cab 4x2 . This truck is getting almost all tens for my review however, I know it's a bit early to be judging its reliability. So far I've been averaging 18.9 mpg with combined freeway and city driving ( 3.7 v6 302hp). I'm sure I could get slightly better with less of a lead foot. The ford Synch and Bluetooth works great along with the voice activated USB and self check vehicle reports. Sticker price on this thing was 32k and some change but if you stick to your guns you can get a really live able price (22495) was my price before tax, title, license, and the BS doc fee. I did utilize every incentive I could find though and three hours of negotiating. Over all thus far I love this truck and am incredibly happy I chose it over a Jeep...... I'll live without the four wheel drive :)"
4 people out of 4 found this review helpful
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By teebee (FL) on Monday, May 06, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 13,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Terrific drivetrain, smooth ride, tows 9,000 lbs"
Cons: "Cup holders are inconvenient"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I mistakenly liquidated my 2003 F-150 Lariat a few years ago. I missed it greatly. Last year I needed another truck to haul my motorcycles, but a bare-bones vehicle with a livable sticker price. Picked up the silver STX SuperCrew 4X4. Good choice! This truck is so basic it doesn't even have carpet. Makes keeping it clean a breeze. No navigation, no backup camera, no driving lights, no automatic headlights, no leather anywhere, no heated seats. The new 5.0L powerplant would eat my Lariat's 5.4 for breakfast. And the 6-speed automatic with overdrive is smooth as 12-year-old Scotch. Ford provided EXACTLY the product I needed when I needed it. Haul/tow mode in the tranny pulls two big V-twins and the trailer without even breathing hard in the mountains. 11MPG with bikes, two XXL riders and all associated gear while doing 70-75 on I95. Looking at slide-in campers now and sadly the STX has insufficient payload for anything comfortable. Moving up to F350 with 6.7 turbo diesel. I'll miss the silver STX. A great, great pickup!"
2 people out of 2 found this review helpful
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