Introduction
The Ford-F-150 made a splash when it rolled off Ford’s assembly line in 1975, and it’s been a favorite of consumers ever since.Let’s take a look at its different generations of this iconic truck and how each has added to its storied reputation.
First Generation Ford F-150 (1975-1979)
The Ford F-150 was sandwiched between the F-100 and the F-250 in terms of size and came with regular and super cab options. It had three engine options—an inline six-cylinder engine generating 113 horsepower. Two optional V8’s were also available—– a 5.0 liter and 5.8 liter— generating 134 and 160 horsepower, respectively. The truck's round headlights and large rectangular grille became its signature and are still very much part of its identity today.
Second Generation Ford F-150 (1980-1986)
Less weight and improved styling were the name of the game in this 1980s iteration. Consumers had the option of a regular or super cab. The inline six-cylinder engine was still very much standard, as were the V8 engine options. In 1981, Ford introduced a four-speed manual transmission and four-speed automatic transmission.
Third Generation Ford F-150 (1987-1991)
The truck’s remained the same as the second, but the four-speed manual transmission became standard. In 1988, a five-speed manual transmission was the norm with options for a three or four-speed automatic transmission. The F-150’s body became more rounded.
Fourth Generation Ford F-150 (1992-1996)
The base inline six-cylinder remained, as did the V8 options. However, they could now be paired with the following transmissions: three-speed automatic, four-speed manual, four-speed automatic, or five-speed manual.
In 1991 a Nite package was introduced for XLT Lariat trim. This appearance-only option gave the truck a black on black look with, black paint blacked-out exterior trim, and alloy wheels, set off by multi-color side stripes and decals. The Nite package was replaced by the SVT Lighting package in 1993. The inline six-cylinder engine was a thing of the past by the end of this generation.
Fifth Generation Ford F-150 (1997-2003)
In 1997, the Ford-F150 was redesigned. It had a 4.2-liter V6 as standard; the former V8 options became 4.6 and 5.4-liter engines generating 200 horsepower. Passengers were also considered with this run.
In 1999, the 5.4-liter V8 delivered 250 horsepower, and the SVT Lightning was re-introduced to the public as a performance pickup. The King Ranch trim, Super Crew Cab and four-door cab layout made their debuts.
Sixth Generation Ford F-150 (2004-2008)
The Ford F-150’s exterior became, once again more square than round in its headlights, taillights and other design elements. The regular cab and super crew cabs now featured four doors, and the Ford solidified its identity as a family vehicle.
Seventh Generation Ford F-150 (2009-2014)
A fully boxed frame, longer crew cab, and luxury features became the identifying changes in the seventh generation F-150. Engine options were now the 3.5-liter EcoBoost, 3.7-liter V6s, 5.0 and 6.2-liter V8s. HID headlights and heated seats made the F-150 more of a family vehicle with a touch of elegance. The current top trim, Platinum, also made its debut.
Eighth Generation Ford F-150 (2015-2020)
Say hello to a larger F-150 without the weight thanks to aluminum on its body panels reducing weight. Consumers have their choice of a base V6, a 2.7-liter or 3.5-liter Ecoboost turbocharged V6, or a 5.0-liter V8 engines. The F-150 starts to really cement its towing reputation in this generation with a capability of 12,200 pounds and a top payload of 3,300 pounds.
Features include LED headlights, automatic start-stop and a 10-speed automatic transmission and an advanced safety system. In 2017, the 5.0-liter V8 became available with a compressed natural gas/Propane Prep package. That same year, a new turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 became available, as did a redesigned 10-speed automatic transmission. By 2019, there are six engines to choose from, a six- or ten-speed automatic transmission, and rear- or four-wheel drive.
Ford’s Sync 3 multimedia system was introduced in 2016, as was Pro Trailer Backup Assist. The Raptor trim (suited for off-roading) was introduced. A few years later, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection became standard features.
Ninth Generation Ford F-150 (2021-Present)
Gone in 2024 is the 3.3-liter V6 (it said its goodbyes the year previously.) Today, the Ford-F150’s base engine is a turbocharged 2.7-liter V6. The F-150's other trim models still include the combo twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 with an electric motor, the 3.5-liter Ecoboost, and the 5-liter V8. Its maximum payload and towing capacities have ever so slightly decreased in comparison to last year’s model, but the automaker can still claim best-in-class figures.
In 2024, notable new interior features include a 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with SYNC 4 infotainment software, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto,and a fully digital instrument cluster. New tech like SVS (Stolen Vehicle Services) and updates to BlueCruise with automatic lane changes and repositioning are also now in play.
All F-150 trim models now include standard LED lighting, and Ford’s patented Pro Access feature, which allows the tailgate to open in two directions. The F-150 can easily haul loads of up to 13,500 pounds when properly equipped and has a payload capacity of up to 2,455 pounds.
Summary
Despite all its changes, the Ford F-150 has proven itself time and time again to be a powerful work truck worthy of its legendary reputation. If you’re interested in this legendary pickup, stop by Banner Ford to experience it for yourself!