Monday 06 / May / 2024
Ever since the trucks moved more from utility to raw fashion statement, they have been getting more and more refined and stylish. The realm entirely dominated by the American biggies, the pick-ups, while retaining their rough and tough creed have acquired sophistication and style as well, especially over the previous two generations.
Leading the mean macho pack is Ford F 150. The best selling truck of America which made Ford famous as the ‘King of the mountain’, the F 150 has always been on the cutting edge – from striking looks to advanced technology. The next-generation F 150 dominates with awesome style and an imposing stance highlighted by its unique fenders, signature front grille, new LED lighting, 360-degree camera and an imposing tailgate.
We recently got a chance to test the new F 150 Lariat; the top end variant sporting a powerful 5.0ltr V8 engine. And lucky I’d say we were, because there is no other way we could drive it (or any other pick up for that matter) here in this country. No expatriate can; it’s the law. Only the locals have the privilege of laying their hands on the mean rides (or a certain few exceptions, like the PDO employees).
Anyways, hopping in, first thing you feel like a dominator, subduing all others on the road, rolling in the behemoth. A brutish sense of pride grips you, as you make your way, looking down on the other elements around you.
Second, it’s powerful and it’s huge – not only on the outside, but inside too. This was the only four wheeled vehicle so far in my automotive years that I could fit in the driver’s seat comfortably without the annoyance of having to move the seat backwards and tilt the steering upwards, with my 114 kilo frame.
There is oodles of space; forget front, even the rear seats have so much of leg space that it could put many of the big cars’ front section to shame. The design of the interior is a lot more modern than the truck it replaces. The accent trim looks nice and feels high-quality, as does the leather upholstery on the seats and dashboard. Though some of the interior plastics are shiny, and the hard door panel is not that comfortable on a longer ride.
There is lots of storage space as well for things like files and even laptop in the large centre armrest console. The rear seats fold up as well, leaving a big expanse of handy flat floor, to carry all that extra gear on your adventure trips.
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Driving the f 150 is a delight. It’s easy to get swayed being behind the wheel of the gigantic 4x4. Though the balance is awesome with evenly distributed weight, and the truck feels grounded at all times, it still requires the caution that comes from being behind the wheel of 2,000 kilo plus vehicle. The over-confidence could lend you into tricky or embarrassing situations, like getting stuck among cars on a sharp turn (exactly what happened to us).
Though Ford claims the new F 150 to be almost 350 kilos lighter than the previous gen with the new aluminium alloy construction, it is still by no means light.
The F 150 features some real smart bits of technology like the ‘Curve Control’ which helps if you take a corner too quickly, by automatically reducing engine torque and applying the brakes to reduce speed and maintain control.
Tucked into the tail-light housings, the ‘Blind-Spot Information System’ comes quite handy on the giant while on the highway, or to sense crossing traffic while backing out of driveways or parking lots. The ‘Lane-Keep Assist’ system vibrates the steering wheel to alert the driver if the vehicle starts to drift off its lane, and even applies steering torque to help guide the vehicle back.
The standard torque-on-demand transfer case manages optimal power distribution between the front and rear wheels, resulting in better grip and traction in adverse conditions, and the standard new Terrain Management System allows easy adjustment of the driving dynamics according to environmental conditions, making matters more delightful in off road conditions.
Even the tow module has smart capabilities, and can sense problems with trailer lights or issues with the trailer’s battery or connection to the vehicle. The F 150 has an amazing 5,035 kilo towing capacity.
The creature comforts I enjoyed on the F 150 were the 10-way adjustable front seats with heating function (I seriously doubt that would be of any use here in Oman), adjustable pedals, and tilt/telescoping steering column. The combination of features makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position, and the seats remain supportive and comfortable for long stretches behind the wheel. Too many small buttons are cluttered on the centre stack, which sometimes makes it a confusing affair, trying to make out which is for what, especially while driving.
However, one thing I couldn’t grow too fond of in the F 150 was the cabin quietness. Most of the external sounds leaked into the cabin, and whistling mirrors are a common phenomenon, and could in fact bother you much if you are out on a long drive.
Being a pickup, the functionality extends to the bed, and Ford has made thoughtful updates. The F 150 features the latest version of Ford’s tailgate step, which tucks inside the tailgate, folding out from the top of the tailgate and offering a grab handle.
The truck offers the most of its shorter 5.5-foot bed, with a maximum payload capacity of 1,500 kilos, also makes it easier to navigate tight situations like crowded parking lots. Within the bed, the BoxLink system adds locking cleats that add tie-down points for securing loads, and there are also handy D-rings and new LED lighting.
From its performance-tuned suspension system to advanced off-road technology, the F 150 is made for the toughest trails. We are definitely excited about the bigger F; the 2017 F 150 Raptor – even badder. If only we all could have the pleasure of buying one.
Tech Specs
Ford F 150 LARIAT 4X4 SuperCab 164
Power 385bhp@5,750rpm, 525Nm@5,750rpm torque
Engine 5.0L Ti-VCT DOHC V8
Transmission 6 Speed SelectShift auto with tow/haul mode
Fuel Capacity 87L
Towing capacity 5035 kilo
Payload capacity 1500 kilo
Authorised Dealer
Arabian Car Marketing Co. LLC
+968 2457 9719/23/25, +968 9926 4193
