2018 Ford F150 4WD Pros vs Cons

The Ford F-150 has been consistently ranked as one of the best full-size pickups you can buy. This year, the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd has an array of new features and upgrades that should give it a much-deserved spot at the top of your list if you're shopping for a large truck.

What's New for 2018?

First, the exterior has been refreshed with a new two-bar front grille that's inspired by that of the Super Duty lineup. Headlights and taillights have a slightly updated shape along with new LED accent lights. Wheel designs are also new for 2018, with sizes ranging from 17 to 22 inches depending on the trim you choose.

Ford is also adding a diesel engine to the F-150 lineup for the first time ever, and last year's engines have been improved to provide both increased power and torque.

New features available for the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd include a premium Bang and Olafson sound system and a wireless hotspot. Some of the truck's active safety features have also been enhanced.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Ford F150 4WD – The Pros

1. Best in Class Towing and Hauling Capacity

If it's powerful utility you're looking for in a truck, there's no better choice than the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd. It provides a class-leading 13,200 pounds and has a maximum payload of 3,270 pounds.

2. Versatile Cabin

Depending on the trim you choose, the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd can accommodate between three and six passengers. Cloth upholstery is standard, but drivers can upgrade to either vinyl or leather. Front seats can be upgraded with power-adjustable functionality, heating and cooling, bucket seats, and even massage capability. The rear seats and steering wheel can also be heated. All seating is comfortable and supportive, and it's easy to add child safety seats to six-seater models.

3. Expansive Driver Assistance Features

The 2018 Ford F-150 4wd is well-equipped with high-tech safety features, including several upgrades for the new model year: stop-and-go technology has been added to adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection. Also available are a 360-degree camera system, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and active parking assistance.

4. Impressive Array of Engines

Ford F-150 drivers have their choice of several powerful engines. The base model is equipped with a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The combo provides 290 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. You can upgrade to a turbocharged, 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine offering 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, a 5.0-liter engine with 395 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, or a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that offers 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Drivers who opt for the Raptor trim will enjoy the off-roading prowess of the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, providing a ground-shaking 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. The upgraded engines all come with 10-speed automatic transmissions.

5. Off-Roading Capability

Drivers who want to take their truck on the trail can customize with a locking rear differential, an off-road-tuned suspension, and hill-descent control. If you opt for the Raptor, you can switch between several driving modes based on terrain and take advantage of the non-skid beadlock rear wheels.

6. Outstanding Safety Ratings

The 2018 Ford F-150 4wd is a Top Safety Pick of the Insurance Institute on Highway Safety. While it has not yet been crash tested by the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration, it is expected to meet or exceed the 2017 model's five-star overall safety rating.

7. Flexible Bed Lengths

The 2018 Ford F-150 4wd comes in three different bed lengths, depending on model: 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8-foot. Regardless of the size you choose, you can take advantage of many features that make hauling easier, such as loading ramps that can easily be stowed, movable tie-downs, LED lighting, and a tailgate step.

8. Innovative, Responsive Infotainment System

Ford's proprietary Sync3 system is easy to learn and provides plenty of functionality. It comes with the ability to connect your smartphone using either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, as well as a new wireless hotspot for up to 10 devices, Bluetooth, navigation, and Siri Eyes Free, all on a 4.2-inch or 8-inch touchscreen.

9. Agile Handling

The Ford F-150 proves surprisingly nimble for a truck of its size. It takes the sharpest corners with ease and provides a smooth, composed ride. Reviewers also note the excellent visibility and the overall pleasant yet rugged feel of the truck.

10. Luxurious Cabin

Drivers who want the appointments of a luxury car with the power of a truck should consider the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd. While the base model is relatively austere, fully loaded models can be equipped with everything from a power moonroof to dual-zone automatic climate control and push-button start.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Ford F150 4WD – The Cons

1. Few Standard Features

Although the base model of the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd is affordable, its features are limited when compared with other trucks in this category. The entry level model includes only basic climate control and a radio.

2. Sometimes-Rough Ride

When you opt for an F-150 model with larger wheels, you might notice a bit of bounce when traveling more rugged roads, as well as some sliding in the rear wheels when the bed is empty. These effects are pronounced when you opt to add the off-roading package.

How it Stacks Up to the Competition

Few full-size pickup trucks are as outstanding as the 2018 Ford F-150 4wd. However, two come close: the Chevy Silverado and the Ram 1500. Both boast comfortable cabins packed with features and amenities, though they don't quite match the capabilities of the F-150.

Conclusion

Approximately 75,000 people buy the Ford F-150 in the United States every single month, making it an incredible best-seller as well as an industry favorite. In fact, it's named the best full-size pickup by U.S. News and World Report, the best truck of the year by New York Daily News, Autobytel's Choice Award for Best Truck, and countless other honors.