2018 Ford F-150 2WD Pros vs Cons

The F-150 has been America's best-selling truck for years. Ford's full-sized pickup truck has been a hit since it launched over forty years ago. The 2018 Ford F-150 has some serious improvements over previous models. If you are in the market for a pickup truck, you can't go wrong by choosing the F-150.

What's New For 2018

The 2018 Ford F-150 has made improvements in the transmission system and engine. The results are more overall power and a better gas mileage rating. Previous models had very similar styles between trim levels. That's not the case in 2018, with each trim getting distinctive looks and features.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Ford F-150 2WD – The Pros

1. Plenty of Power

The new base engine for 2018 is a 3.3 liter V-6. The engine produces 290 HP with 265 lb-ft of torque at 250 rpm. There is plenty of power for most hauling and work duties. It also provides nice acceleration for everyday commutes.

The EcoBoost twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 offers 375 HP. This engine is standard on the Limited and Raptor models of the 2018 Ford F-150. This truck can haul over 3,270 pounds and tow up to 12,000 pounds.

2. Great Driving Performance

Whether you pick a standard trim package or a 4X4 model, the F-150 is a pleasure to drive. Steering and handling is crisp and responsive. Acceleration is excellent with any engine choice. A 10-speed automatic transmission comes standard on all model. Shifting is smooth and very accurate. The ride quality is quiet and smooth.

3. Good Fuel Economy

The 2018 Ford F-150 has decent fuel economy for its class. The EcoBoost engine models achieve 20 mpg in the city, 26 MPG on the highway and a combined rating of 22 mpg. 4X4 models with the same engine rate as 18/23/20 mpg.

4. A Lot of Trim Options

There are a bunch of options when it comes to choosing an F-150. The Pricier Limited and Raptor models offer the most luxury features. They also come with some serious visual upgrades such as stylish grills with the model name emblazoned on them.

You can of course select a standard or 4X4 model if off-roading is a priority. Models come in regular and extended-cab versions. 10-speed and 6-speed automatic options are available. A V-8 engine is also an option, though it gets around the same horsepower as the turbocharged V-6.

5. Good Infotainment System

Ford's SYNC system is included in all trims, along with a 4.2" screen. An 8" touchscreen is also available. Most features can be accessed via voice commands. The F-150 has a 10-speaker sound system. All of the controls of the system are basic, but easy to figure out and use.

6. Good Safety Rating and Features

The 2018 Ford F-150 has a lot of high-tech safety features. Sensors can alert you to pedestrians and even brake for you if you get too close to an obstacle. A full 360 degree camera gives you a perfect view of your surroundings. Trailer-hitch assistance, lane assist and reverse assist all come standard.

The Ford F-150 crash ratings for 2018 are not yet available as of the time of this article's writing. Previous-year models rank highly in front, rear and side crash results.

7. Driver Assistance Technology

New for the 2018 model is Ford's enhanced, adaptive cruise-control. This system features stop-and-go functions and can assist the driver with towing trailers. Backing up with a trailer hitched to your vehicle has never been easier.

8. Nice Interior Fit and Finish

Everything inside of the F-150 cabin is made of high-quality materials. The style, fit and finish are all excellent. Standard models have cloth seating, but leather trim packages are available. Seats have ventilation and heating options. The location of the gauges, controls and infotainment system are all logical and easy to reach.

9. Plenty of Interior Space

The inside of the F-150 is spacious. The extended cabin models offer a comfortable ride for your backseat passengers. All models have good headroom and plenty of space to stretch out your legs.

The 2018 Ford F-150 is packed with inside storage areas and compartments. From the center console, to an array of cuby-holes, drink holders and pouches.

10. Good Reliability

While it is hard to remark on the reliability of a new model, the F-150 series of trucks has long been associated with quality, longevity and reliability. This is why they are so often used as fleet trucks. The vehicles can be used for heavy-work duty for years and still keep performing.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Ford F-150 2WD – The Cons

1. Higher End Trims Can Get Expensive

The price points of the various F-150 trim levels are very comparable to the competition. The F-150 can, however, start to get pricey when you keep adding various perks and features.

2. So Many Options Can Be Overwhelming

This might seem like a nitpicky issue, but many buyers can get option paralysis. With so many choices, it can be hard to decide what exactly best meets your needs. On the other hand, this many options also means that you can tailor the truck exactly to your own taste and style, if you know what you want.

3. No Traditional Manual Transmission Available

The lack of a regular, manual transmission may be a deal breaker for many drivers. The option to manually switch gears is invaluable when hauling a load or pulling a trailer. The automatic systems do, however, do a good job in this area.

How it Stacks up to the Competition

The main competition for the F-150 comes from Chevy's Silverado 1500, the Dodge Ram 1500, GMC 1500 and the Toyota Tundra. The F-150 is comparable in price to these models, coming in 2nd or 3rd cheapest for the base model, with the Tundra generally costing the most.

The F-150 beats out every model when it comes to performance, power and its ability to haul heavy loads. It also has the most options, meaning if you like something on a different model, you can likely get that feature on the F-150 as well.

Conclusion

The F-150 has been America's favorite pickup truck for a long while now, and for good reason. The price, options, performance and features make it a fantastic choice. If you are in the market for a new truck, the 2018 Ford F-150 is definitely worth a test drive.