The Ford F-Series F-150, specifically the twelfth generation produced from 2008 to 2010, represented a significant evolution in the full-size pickup truck segment. This generation, designated as the F-150 XII, continued the F-Series’ long-standing tradition of providing a robust and capable workhorse for American consumers. Within this generation, the Regular Cab configuration powered by the 5.4-liter V8 engine paired with a four-wheel drive system and automatic transmission occupied a middle ground in the lineup, offering a balance of power, capability, and affordability. It served as a popular choice for buyers prioritizing towing and hauling capacity without the added expense of higher trim levels or more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.4 V8 (310 Hp) 4×4 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) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 495 Nm @ 3500 rpm (365.09 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5408 cm3 (330.02 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.17 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 105.66 mm (4.16 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, VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 19.6 l (20.71 US qt | 17.25 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3266 kg (7200.3 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1685 l (59.51 cu. ft.) |
| 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%) | 3946 kg (8699.44 lbs.) |
| Length | 5413-5885 mm (213.11 – 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 | 1925-1930 mm (75.79 – 75.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200-3670 mm (125.98 – 144.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 224 mm (8.82 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.7-14.3 m (41.67 – 46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 23.4-24.3° |
| Departure angle | 21-21.6° |
| Ramp-over angle | 18.3-19.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 348 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 275/65 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s modular engine family, featured a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The engine code varied slightly depending on the specific year and calibration, but generally fell within the range of engines utilizing a three-valve per cylinder (3V) configuration. This 3V design, introduced in 2004, improved breathing and efficiency compared to earlier two-valve versions. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine employed a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with variable valve timing (VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, further enhancing performance and fuel economy. The 5.4L Triton was known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, making it a reliable powerplant. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving all four wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, a crucial component of the drivetrain, was designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output and provide smooth, responsive shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.4-liter V8, producing 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque, provided adequate power for most everyday driving situations and towing needs. However, compared to the higher-output 6.2-liter V8 or even the 4.6-liter V8, the 5.4L felt less responsive, particularly when accelerating from a standstill or passing on the highway. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, contributing to a slightly less engaging driving experience. The 4×4 system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather or off-road conditions, but the F-150’s substantial weight and relatively soft suspension tuning meant it wasn’t designed for serious off-roading. The gear ratios in the six-speed automatic were optimized for towing and fuel efficiency, rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Regular Cab F-150 with the 5.4-liter V8 and automatic transmission typically came standard with features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the XLT and Lariat, added features like power windows and locks, cruise control, upgraded audio systems, and cloth or leather upholstery. Optional extras included a trailer towing package, a navigation system, and various appearance upgrades. The Regular Cab configuration itself was the most basic and affordable option, prioritizing functionality over comfort and convenience. It was often chosen by buyers who primarily used their trucks for work and didn’t require the extra space or amenities of the SuperCab or SuperCrew models.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII utilized a fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for the truck’s substantial weight. The front suspension featured an independent double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination offered a reasonable balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for most situations. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard equipment, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking maneuvers. The rear brakes were slightly smaller in diameter than the front brakes, reflecting the truck’s weight distribution.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.4-liter V8-equipped F-150 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It offered a good balance of power, capability, and affordability. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the refinement and responsiveness of some of its competitors. Fuel economy was also a concern, particularly given the rising gas prices during this period. Compared to the 4.6-liter V8, the 5.4L offered more power and towing capacity, but at the expense of fuel efficiency. Compared to the 6.2-liter V8, the 5.4L was less powerful but more affordable. The automatic transmission was generally praised for its smoothness, but some drivers preferred the control and responsiveness of a manual transmission.
Legacy
The 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine, while eventually superseded by newer engine designs, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. Many examples of this engine are still on the road today, testament to its robust construction. However, some owners have reported issues with spark plug breakage and timing chain tensioner failure, particularly in earlier model years. The F-150 XII, as a whole, is considered a well-built and capable truck, and the Regular Cab configuration remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a no-frills workhorse. In the used car market, these trucks typically command reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
