Official EPA numbers show the 2017 Ford F-150 pickup fitted with Ford’s new-generation 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and the industry’s first 10-speed automatic transmission have increased its mileage while improving acceleration in both rear- and 4-wheel drive configurations. With 375 horsepower and class-leading 470 lb-ft of torque – gains of 10 and 50 output units compared to the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 it replaced – the new engine earns 18 city/25 highway/21 combined ratings in rear-drive when teamed with the new 10-speed automatic. The story is equally impressive for the 4-wheel drive F-150, that boasts 17/23/20 mpg comparative numbers, one mpg better than before in town and on the road and two mpg up on the previous combined mark.
As reported previously, the Gen II 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 in the F-150 shares a good deal of mechanical and electronic technology that also will be found in the more potent 450-horse version of the engine fitted to the next-gen 2017 Raptor due later this year. Also backed by the firm’s new 10-speed automatic, Ford expects its upcoming supertruck also will better the EPA marks of the original Raptor.
Also: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards of 2016
Made from lightweight alloys, the 10-speed is an impressive piece. Fitted with closer ratios, adaptive shift algorithms and a high-speed one-way clutch that allows for non-sequential shifts, it’s designed to choose and maintain the best gear for any given driving load condition. The result is better off-the-line acceleration and a more confident feel – particularly when towing or hauling – as well as the bump in fuel efficiency.
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