The 2018 Ford F-150 was announced earlier this year, and it offers some new and interesting tech and features. Here�s a look at five of the most attention-grabbing features on the new truck.
Under the Hood
The whole engine range is interesting, but the biggest news is that Ford is now offering a diesel in the F-150 for the first time. The all-new 3.0-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel V-6 will join the new standard 3.3-liter V-6 that replaces last year�s 3.5 and is expected to make similar power (282 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque), a 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine and a naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V-8. A 10-speed automatic transmission will mate to each engine, and start/stop will be standard across the board. While not all power numbers have been finalized yet, the addition of a torquey diesel engine will be helpful in both off-road and towing situations.
360-Degree Camera
The availability of a 360-degree camera will help in parking situations as well as when hooking up a trailer, but it could also come in handing when off-roading in slow-speed situations (particularly when backing up), as it will help drivers see flora and fauna they may not be otherwise able to.
Blind-Spot Monitoring with Trailer-Tow
For those who use their rigs for trailering, the blind-spot monitoring system will now be able to detect blind spots created by trailers that are up to 33 feet long. While this may be more of an on-road feature, it will come handy for those who use their trucks to tow off-road craft such as ATVs. After all, one must get to and from the off-road trail safely.
Connectivity Everywhere
It�s not the first vehicle on the market to offer an in-car 4G LTE wireless hotspot � it�s just the latest. Up to 10 mobile devices can be connected, meaning you�ll never be out of touch while on the trail again. Other available tech includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Tough Framework
The new F-150 will use a fully boxed ladder frame made of high-strength steel and a body of high-strength �military grade� aluminum. According to Ford, this will allow the truck to offer more capability � especially when it comes to payload and towing � while saving weight and not sacrificing strength. That last bit should be of special note to off-roaders, as lighter weight and a stronger body/frame are useful attributes on the trail.
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