2018 Ford F150 review

Ford redesigned the F-150 for the 2015 model year, ushering in the 13th generation of the F-Series. This was the first full-size pickup truck to use aluminum body panels. That change, along with a few other updates, made the truck lighter and faster than previous-generation trucks. With less inherent weight, the F-150 could also tow and haul more than before. All of those improvements are serious advantages in the full-size truck segment.

In 2018, the F-150 received a midcycle refresh that introduced a variety of updates. From a side profile, the truck looked mostly the same, but the headlights, front bumper, and front grille were all-new. Engines and transmissions were also on the list; Ford added a new 3.3-liter V6 as the base engine and an optional turbodiesel V6. A 10-speed automatic, previously available on just one engine, was now made standard on two optional engines: the 2.7-liter V6 and the 5.0-liter V8.

The 2018 F-150 offers six powertrain choices. The base engine is a 3.3-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It produces 290 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.

Up next is the 2.7-liter turbocharged V6. It's paired to the previously mentioned 10-speed automatic transmission and makes 325 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque―an increase of 25 lb-ft of torque over the previous year's engine.

Ford's 5.0-liter V8 is also available. It comes with the 10-speed automatic transmission too. The V8 produces 395 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 10 horsepower and 13 lb-ft of torque from the previous year.

The next engine in the F-150's lineup is the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 paired to the 10-speed automatic. The 3.5-liter engine is available with two output ratings. Most F-150s with this engine produce 375 hp and 470 lb-ft. But for the F-150's off-road trim, the Raptor, Ford drops in a high-output version that produces 450 hp and 510 lb-ft.

Finally, the new engine for 2018 is an optional turbodiesel 3.0-liter V6. It's also paired with a 10-speed automatic. It produces 250 hp and 440 lb-ft and gets the best EPA-estimated fuel economy for the F-150.

While there are some minor changes to the 2018 F-150's looks and some more significant additions under the hood, the interior remains mostly the same.

The F-150’s controls are easy to use. The volume and temperature control knobs, for example, are large and easy to find without taking your eyes off the road. Even the smaller buttons, located on the steering wheel, are labeled with a large, easy-to-read font so you'll be able to identify them with a quick glance. Visibility is good too. There's an expansive view out the front, and the large windows have a signature drop-down cutout design that helps you better see nearby objects, such as when you're parking.

In the city, the F-150's suspension soaks up most bumps. On the highway, the ride can feel a bit stiff and larger bumps make their way into the cabin, but it's not a deal-breaker. The front seats are supportive and provide all-day comfort. If you opt for one of the mid-level or top trims, the heated and ventilated seats are a worthwhile addition.

The F-150's chief rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and the Ram 1500. The Silverado is an impressive full-size truck with stout V8 power. The Silverado 1500 received a full redesign in 2019, so, depending on your needs, you may want to search for an updated model with Chevy's new styling. If you don't like the Silverado's styling, or you want a bit more of a luxury vibe in your truck, the Silverado has a fraternal twin brother, the GMC Sierra 1500 (which was also redesigned in 2019). The Ram 1500 was redesigned in 2019 and it offers class-leading interior refinement and ride quality - the 2019 model is Edmunds' Top Rated full-size pickup.

Other full-size competitors include the Nissan Titan and the Toyota Tundra. They might be worth a look but know that generally they are not as highly rated by Edmunds as the F-150, Silverado 1500 and Ram 1500.