The Ford F-250 Super Duty, specifically the V Super Cab Long Box configuration with the 6.8-liter V8 engine producing 405 horsepower, represents Ford’s entry into the heavy-duty pickup truck segment. Introduced for the 2023 model year as part of the fifth generation (2023-present), this variant caters to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without opting for the more expensive and powerful diesel options. It occupies a middle ground within the F-250 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and cost. This configuration is primarily aimed at the North American market, where full-size pickup trucks are exceptionally popular for both commercial and personal use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-250 Super Duty |
| Generation | F-250 Super Duty V Super Cab Long box |
| Type (Engine) | 6.8 V8 (405 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.3 kg/Hp, 137.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 405 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 603 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 444.75 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 6801 cm3, 415.02 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 107.2 mm, 4.22 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 93.98 mm, 3.7 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.57 l, 8 US qt | 6.66 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2950 kg, 6503.64 lbs |
| Max. weight | 4763 kg, 10500.62 lbs |
| Max load | 1813 kg, 3996.98 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2223 l, 78.5 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 129 l, 34.08 US gal | 28.38 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 6396 kg, 14100.77 lbs |
| Length | 6462 mm, 254.41 in |
| Width | 2032 mm, 80 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2690 mm, 105.91 in |
| Height | 2070 mm, 81.5 in |
| Wheelbase | 4168 mm, 164.09 in |
| Front track | 1765 mm, 69.49 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1910 mm, 75.2 in |
| Front overhang | 973 mm, 38.31 in |
| Rear overhang | 1270 mm, 50 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 246 mm, 9.69 in |
| Approach angle | 27.6° |
| Departure angle | 20.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 21.9° |
| 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 | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Dependent spring suspension with anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 363 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 363 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17; 275/70 R18; 275/65 R20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this F-250 Super Duty variant lies Ford’s 6.8-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, internally designated as the 375 cubic inch V8, is a robust and relatively simple design, eschewing forced induction in favor of large displacement and traditional engine architecture. It features a cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its durability. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a two-valve per cylinder configuration. The 10-speed automatic transmission, a collaboration between Ford and General Motors, is a key component of this powertrain. This transmission offers a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both towing performance and fuel efficiency. The transmission’s electronic control system adapts to driving conditions and load, selecting the appropriate gear for optimal performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 6.8-liter V8 and 10-speed automatic combination delivers adequate, though not exceptional, performance. With 405 horsepower and 444.75 lb-ft of torque, the F-250 is capable of handling substantial loads and towing trailers up to 14,100 pounds. However, compared to the available 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8 or the Power Stroke diesel engines, acceleration is noticeably slower. The 10-speed transmission helps mitigate this by keeping the engine in its optimal power band, but the sheer weight of the truck is a limiting factor. The automatic transmission provides smooth shifts in normal driving conditions, but can sometimes hunt for the right gear when under heavy load. The 4×4 system provides excellent traction in various terrains, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road applications.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-250 Super Duty V Super Cab Long Box 6.8 V8 4×4 Automatic typically comes standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. The Super Cab configuration offers additional rear seating space compared to the standard cab, while the long box provides ample cargo capacity. Higher trim levels, such as XLT and Lariat, add features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras include a trailer tow package, a fifth-wheel hitch, and various off-road enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The F-250 Super Duty utilizes a heavy-duty chassis designed to withstand the stresses of towing and hauling. The front suspension features a robust independent suspension with coil springs and anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power even when heavily loaded. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 6.8-liter V8-equipped F-250 Super Duty has been generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It offers a compelling value proposition for buyers who need a capable heavy-duty truck but don’t want to pay the premium for a diesel engine. Fuel economy is reasonable for a truck of this size, though it lags behind the diesel options. Reliability has been generally good, with the 6.8-liter V8 proving to be a durable and dependable engine. Compared to the 7.3-liter V8, the 6.8-liter offers slightly less power and torque, but it is also more affordable. The diesel engines provide significantly more torque and better fuel economy, but they come with a higher purchase price and potentially higher maintenance costs.
Legacy
The 6.8-liter V8 engine has been a mainstay of the Ford Super Duty lineup for many years, earning a reputation for reliability and durability. While it may not offer the ultimate in performance or fuel efficiency, it remains a popular choice for buyers who prioritize simplicity and value. In the used car market, F-250 Super Duty trucks equipped with this engine hold their value reasonably well, particularly those that have been well-maintained. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be a reliable and efficient component, contributing to the overall longevity of these trucks. As Ford continues to innovate with its Super Duty lineup, the 6.8-liter V8 will likely remain a viable option for buyers seeking a capable and dependable heavy-duty pickup truck.
