The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Ford Motor Company, and has been consistently the best-selling vehicle in the United States for over four decades. The fourteenth generation, designated F-150 XIV, began production in 2021 and received a significant facelift for the 2023 model year. Among the various engine and drivetrain options offered, the 3.5 EcoBoost V6 paired with the SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission represents a popular and well-regarded configuration, delivering a balance of power, capability, and refinement. This variant, producing 400 horsepower, occupies a strong position in the F-150 lineup, appealing to buyers seeking substantial performance without the higher cost of the Raptor or Limited trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCrew (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 EcoBoost V6 (400 Hp) SelectShift |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 182.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 308.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 114.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 678 Nm @ 3100 rpm (500.07 lb.-ft. @ 3100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3 (213.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2197 kg (4843.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3084 kg (6799.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 887 kg (1955.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 1495 l (52.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l (35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5806 kg (12800.04 lbs.) |
| Length | 5893 mm (232.01 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2123 mm (83.58 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2431 mm (95.71 in.) |
| Height | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3693 mm (145.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 950 mm (37.4 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1250 mm (49.21 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.6 m (47.9 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21° |
| Departure angle | 18.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 17.1° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 10 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 336×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17; 265/70 R17; 265/60 R18; 265/70 R18; 275/65 R18; 275/60 R20; 275/50 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20; 22 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2023 Ford F-150 SuperCrew with the 3.5 EcoBoost V6 and SelectShift transmission represents a significant evolution of Ford’s best-selling pickup. Building upon the foundation of the fourteenth-generation F-150 (introduced in 2021), the 2023 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and refinements to the powertrain. This particular configuration is positioned as a strong all-around performer, offering ample power for towing and hauling, coupled with a comfortable ride and a relatively refined driving experience. It slots in above the base 3.3L V6 and the 2.7L EcoBoost in terms of performance and price, but below the more expensive and performance-oriented Raptor and Limited models.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this F-150 variant lies Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, part of the EcoBoost family, utilizes a combination of direct fuel injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine code is generally identified within Ford’s internal systems, but isn’t prominently displayed to consumers. It features a twin-turbocharger setup with an intercooler, which significantly boosts power output. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing efficiency and responsiveness. The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission is a crucial component, providing a wide range of gear ratios for optimal acceleration, towing, and fuel economy. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and intelligent shift programming, adapting to driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a compelling driving experience. The engine produces a robust 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and demanding tasks. Acceleration is brisk, and the engine feels responsive across a wide RPM range. The 10-speed transmission plays a key role in maximizing performance, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the base V6, the EcoBoost offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and towing capacity. While not as aggressively tuned as the Raptor’s engine, the 3.5 EcoBoost provides more than enough power for most drivers. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, contributing to a comfortable ride. The wide gear ratios also help to keep engine noise to a minimum during highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2023 F-150 SuperCrew 3.5 EcoBoost was available in a variety of trim levels, including XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited. Standard equipment on lower trims typically included features like a basic infotainment system, air conditioning, and cloth upholstery. Higher trims added more luxurious features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a bed liner, and various towing packages. The SuperCrew configuration provides a spacious cabin with seating for up to six passengers, making it a practical choice for families and work crews.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XIV utilizes a high-strength steel frame and an aluminum-alloy body, contributing to its impressive strength and reduced weight. The front suspension features an independent double wishbone design with coil springs, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The specific brake rotor sizes vary depending on the trim level and towing package selected, with heavier-duty brakes available for those who frequently tow or haul heavy loads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 has consistently been a popular choice among F-150 buyers, praised for its blend of power, efficiency, and refinement. Critics generally lauded the engine’s strong performance and the smooth operation of the 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy, while not exceptional for a full-size pickup, is respectable, averaging around 19.9 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost, the 3.5L offers more power and towing capacity, but at a slightly higher price point. Compared to the 5.0L V8, the 3.5L EcoBoost often delivers comparable performance with slightly better fuel economy. Reliability has generally been good, although some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The 3.5 EcoBoost engine has become a cornerstone of Ford’s truck lineup, and the combination with the 10-speed automatic has proven to be a durable and reliable powertrain. In the used car market, F-150s equipped with this engine and transmission hold their value well, due to their strong performance and reputation for dependability. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this powertrain. With proper care, these engines can easily exceed 200,000 miles, making them a solid choice for buyers seeking a capable and long-lasting full-size pickup truck.
