2021 Ford F-150
- Best-in-class towing and payload
- Hybrid powertrain offers more than 700 miles of range
- Pro Power Onboard makes the truck a mobile generator
- Pricing starts at $28,940 (plus $1,695 destination) | Price yours
- On sale now | See Autotrader listings right here on KBB.com
Kelley Blue Book has named the all-new Ford F-150 as the Best Buy Award winner in the full-size truck category for 2021. This marks the seventh time Ford’s popular truck has earned this award, and it is the only vehicle that has won every year in which the Best Buy Awards have been in existence. How has it managed to stay at the top of this highly competitive segment, year after year?
With every new generation of the Ford F-150 comes innovation that advances the entire pickup truck segment. Just look at recent history. The 12th generation brought the twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, which proved that a V6 engine could easily manage tough truck duty. With the 13th generation, Ford started using military-grade aluminum in most of the body instead of steel, added a diesel engine, and included cool features like a tailgate-mounted step. And in 2021, the first year of the 14th generation, the F-150 adds a hybrid powertrain and Pro Power Onboard, which allows the truck to be used as a mobile generator. There’s also an all-electric F-150 arriving for the 2022 model year.
Using innovation for work
When it comes to the use of tech in full-size pickups, one of the biggest concerns has long been that it would limit a truck’s work capability. The Ford F-150 consistently proves this is not the case. In fact, it’s exactly the opposite: the use of the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain gives the F-150 more than 700 miles of range while providing 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. That’s more power than the Raptor, Ford’s high-performance off-road pickup. The F-150 Hybrid can also tow an impressive 12,400 pounds.
Ford continues its focus on work duty with its Pro Power Onboard mobile generator system. It’s an available option with three of the F-150’s gas engines and standard with the hybrid, and there are three different versions available that offer different levels of power. The most powerful system, available only with the hybrid, can power several tools – such as a plasma cutter, TiG welder, and air compressor – at the same time, with power to spare. We tested Pro Power Onboard and it’s effortless to use, with the center screen in the cab displaying the amount of power the generator is using.
These new-for-2021 features are added onto a slate of smart tech that includes a blind-spot monitor that accounts for a vehicle that might be on either side of your trailer. Pro Trailer Backup Assist lets you turn a knob and follow guidance on a screen to back up your truck and trailer. Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced safety systems returns for 2021. It runs through the all-new Sync 4 infotainment system and adds even more driver-assistance and safety features.
Power and performance
The 2021 Ford F-150 is still available with a choice of four gas engines, one turbodiesel, and the PowerBoost hybrid. There were some changes to the non-hybrid lineup for 2021, namely the addition of horsepower, active grille shutters, and some transmission changes. We are impressed by the entire powertrain lineup, and all the choices are strong. If you want the maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds – the most you can tow with any full-size pickup – you’ll achieve that with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost. There are so many cab, engine, and model choices that you can find one that will suit your specific needs. We still like the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine as a midrange option; team that with Pro Power onboard, and the combination gets better yet.
Our most recent drive with this truck was in the 2021 F-150 powered by the PowerBoost hybrid. The exterior of the F-150 looks similar to the previous model with some noticeable differences around the grille, and the interior has been totally redesigned. The 12-inch screen is a terrific size for monitoring the Pro Power Onboard while running power equipment. The Work Surface, which essentially turns the center console into a desk, is a snap to use.
Once we headed out on the road, the first thing that we noticed is how quiet and well-insulated the interior is, which was highlighted even more when the hybrid was running in electric mode. The transitions between gas and electric drive modes are smooth, and acceleration is quick and mighty. While brake feel could use some refinement, Ford’s new hybrid powertrain is a great option for truck buyers. The ride is comfortable without feeling mushy. The F-150 has a suspension setup that’s nicely tuned for everything from off-road duty to a cross-country trip.
Value
It’s no secret that full-size trucks are getting pricey, but there is value in what a truck can do. In the case of the 2021 Ford F-150, its value is that this new generation of the pickup has become, in essence, a portable workstation. You can tow a huge trailer or carry heavy gear in the bed. If you need or want to go off-road, the F-150 is built for it. The tailgate step makes it easy to access everything you’ve brought to the job site. You can use the Work Surface in the cab to set up your laptop, and can monitor Pro Power Onboard as the generator powers your tools on site.
Better yet, when the workday is done, this truck is comfortable and roomy, and the Crew Cab’s spacious second row with a flat floor easily accommodates three people. With comfortable seats, a roomy interior, luxury options, and plenty of connectivity features, the 2021 F-150 is just as ready for a trip or as a family’s main vehicle as it is for the job. That generator can go to good use powering an air compressor and e-bikes while camping, and can help power small appliances in case of a power outage at home.
The 2021 Ford F-150 is ready for anything. All you have to do is choose the right model and engine for your needs and your budget.
Photo Tour: 2021 Ford F-150
More 2021 Ford F-150
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