The Ford F-Series F-150 XII Regular Cab, equipped with the 4.6-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series line of pickup trucks. Produced from 2008 through 2010, this configuration occupied a middle ground within the F-150 lineup, offering a balance between capability, affordability, and everyday usability. It was part of the twelfth generation (2009-2014) of the F-Series, internally designated as the F-150 XII, and built on a fully boxed frame designed to improve strength and durability compared to previous generations. This particular variant catered to buyers who needed the versatility of a full-size pickup but didn’t require the higher performance or premium features of the larger engine options or higher trim levels.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 V8 (292 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 292 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 434 Nm @ 4000 rpm (320.1 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4606 cm3 (281.08 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.17 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.17 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3107 kg (6849.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2299 l (81.19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3810 kg (8399.61 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885 mm (231.69 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2123 mm (83.58 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2464 mm (97.01 in.) |
| Height | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3670 mm (144.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 251 mm (9.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 348 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Tires size | 255/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is Ford’s 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine, specifically the version designated for truck applications. This engine, part of the Triton family, utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports for optimized combustion. The 4.6L V8 produced 292 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission (likely the 6R80E), chosen for its smooth shifting and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of towing capability and fuel efficiency, though the latter remained a relative weakness for a vehicle of this size.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.6L V8 and six-speed automatic combination delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for everyday driving and moderate towing, but it lacked the punch of the 5.4L V8 or the diesel options. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, meaning the engine often operated at higher RPMs during highway cruising. Compared to the manual transmission equipped F-150s, this variant offered less driver engagement and slightly reduced fuel economy. However, it provided a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.6L V8 automatic configuration was typically offered in the XL, XLT, and STX trim levels. The base XL trim was fairly spartan, featuring vinyl upholstery, a basic audio system, and manual windows and locks. The XLT trim added features like cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. The STX trim, positioned as a sporty option, often included color-matched exterior trim, alloy wheels, and a more aggressive styling package. Optional extras included a towing package, upgraded audio systems, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII utilized a robust fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension consisted of an independent double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over outright handling precision. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the weight distribution of the vehicle. Steering was provided by an electric power steering system, offering a lighter steering feel compared to hydraulic systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 4.6L V8 automatic F-150 as a competent and reliable work truck. It wasn’t the fastest or most fuel-efficient option, but it offered a good balance of capability and affordability. Fuel economy was a common criticism, with the 4.6L V8 achieving around 15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Compared to the 5.4L V8, the 4.6L offered better fuel economy but significantly less power. The diesel options, while more expensive, provided superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency. The 4.6L automatic was often favored by buyers who prioritized ease of use and didn’t require the maximum towing or hauling capacity.
Legacy
The 4.6L V8 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While not without its quirks (such as potential spark plug issues in earlier versions), the engine generally held up well over time. Today, used F-150s equipped with the 4.6L V8 and automatic transmission are relatively affordable and readily available. They represent a good value for buyers seeking a capable and dependable pickup truck for light to moderate duty tasks. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is excellent. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s fuel consumption and the possibility of age-related wear and tear on components like the transmission and suspension.
