Last fall Ford offered a first look at the all-new, aluminum-intensive 2017 F-Series Super Duty pickup family along with the promise that it would deliver more of what really mattered to those with a hankering for hard-core hauling. Today, the automaker announced hard numbers on the F-250, F-350 and F-450 models, and they are impressive. Among them are the highest horsepower and torque of any competitor as well as the greatest payload and towing capacity. “We listened to our customers and created the toughest, smartest and most capable Super Duty ever,” notes Doug Scott, Ford truck marketing manager. “This is the best heavy-duty truck we’ve ever made.”
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Beyond an all-new high-strength steel frame that’s 24 times stiffer than the current model and alloy body panels that help trim up to 350 pounds from its curb weight, the new Super Duty adds serious muscle. The 6.2-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel is now tuned to make a class-leading 440 horses and 925 lb-ft of torque while the 6.2-liter gasoline V8 develops a best-in-class 430 lb-ft.
Carry more, tow more, feel safer
The 2017 F-250’s 4,200-pound max payload is 600+ beyond its closest rival while the new F-350 earns its top marks with a 7,630-pound capability. Those who regularly tow will benefit from similar gains. Maximum conventional towing on single-rear-wheel F-250/F-350 models with the new trailer-tow package rises to a class-leading 18,000 pounds while the max combined truck/trailer number rises to a benchmark 41,800 pounds. The new F-450 takes things to another level, with the maximum fifth-wheel tow rating on a Super Crew 4×4 rising to 27,500 pounds – 2,500 pounds beyond its closest rival — while the gooseneck rating moves to 32,500 pounds, a 1,290-pound edge over the next closest competitor.
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To complement their enhanced functionality, the 2017 F-Series Super Duty trucks also introduce new safety-related tech starting with adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support for heavy trailers that makes it easier to maintain control — and speed — on steep grades even while hitched to a 32,500-pound trailer. There’s a 4-camera 360-degree surround-view package as well as Trailer Reverse Guidance system plus the first custom-positionable factory-available trailer camera that further helps the backing process. Ford also tweaked the Blind Spot Information System setup to accommodate hauling trailers up to 33 feet in length and these new Super Duty trucks feature a new, segment-first in-cab tire pressure monitoring system. The 2017 Ford F-Series Super Duty lineup hits the showrooms this fall and pricing will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
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Check out our Pickup Truck Buyer’s Guide for a look at what’s new and what’s next.
