The Ford F-150 XI Regular Cab, equipped with the 4.6-liter V8 Triton engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Ford’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 2007 through mid-2008. Representing a transitional period in the F-150’s evolution, this configuration offered a balance between capability and affordability, targeting buyers who needed a robust work truck without the expense of higher trim levels or more powerful engines. It sat within the broader eleventh generation (2007-2014) of the F-Series, known for its significant redesign and increased focus on interior refinement and safety. This particular variant was positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option, appealing to individuals and small businesses requiring a dependable 4×4 pickup for everyday tasks and light-duty hauling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XI Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 V8 Triton (248 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | July, 2008 |
| 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 179.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 248 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 399 Nm @ 4000 rpm (294.29 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4605 cm3 (281.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.17 mm (3.55 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.92 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| 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 capacity | 19.4 l (20.5 US qt | 17.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2224-2287 kg (4903.08 – 5041.97 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3152 kg (6948.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 865-928 kg (1907 – 2045.89 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98-135 l (25.89 – 35.66 US gal | 21.56 – 29.7 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 5364-5837 mm (211.18 – 229.8 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Height | 1920 mm (75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200-3670 mm (125.98 – 144.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Rear track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.7-14.1 m (41.67 – 46.26 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| Gearbox type | 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 |
| Tires size | 235/70 R17; 275/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant was the 4.6-liter Triton V8 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s modular engine family, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design and a 9.4:1 compression ratio. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection to deliver fuel to the cylinders, optimizing combustion for both power and efficiency. The 4.6L Triton was known for its relatively simple design, contributing to its overall reliability. The four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 4R70W) was chosen for its durability and suitability for truck applications. While not offering the most advanced gear ratios, it provided adequate performance for typical hauling and towing duties. The transmission was electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on throttle position and vehicle load.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.6-liter V8, producing 248 horsepower and 399 lb-ft of torque, delivered adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was reasonable for a full-size pickup, but noticeably slower than the available 5.4-liter Triton V8 or the diesel options. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, lacked the responsiveness and fuel efficiency of more modern transmissions with additional gears. The gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, resulting in a lower first gear for increased pulling power but potentially sacrificing fuel economy at highway speeds. Compared to manual transmission F-150s, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, but at the cost of some driver control and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 XI Regular Cab with the 4.6L engine and automatic transmission typically came standard with features like air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and vinyl upholstery. Power windows and locks were often optional extras. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of work truck use. Higher trim levels, such as the XLT and Lariat, offered upgrades like cloth or leather upholstery, upgraded sound systems, and additional convenience features. The Regular Cab configuration featured a bench seat, accommodating three passengers, and a simple, no-frills interior layout.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XI Regular Cab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for heavy-duty use. The front suspension consisted of a double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability over ride comfort. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as a standard safety feature. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended use, but lacked the advanced features found on some competing trucks.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.6-liter F-150 Automatic was generally well-received as a practical and affordable work truck. Critics noted its adequate power and reliability, but also pointed out its relatively basic interior and lack of advanced features compared to some competitors. Fuel economy was typical for a full-size pickup of its era, averaging around 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. Compared to the 5.4-liter Triton V8, the 4.6L offered lower performance but better fuel economy. The diesel options provided superior towing capacity and fuel efficiency but came at a significantly higher price point.
Legacy
The 4.6-liter Triton V8, while eventually superseded by more modern engines, proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant. The 4R70W automatic transmission, while not the most technologically advanced, also demonstrated good longevity. Today, these F-150s are often found as affordable used trucks, prized for their simplicity and dependability. Common maintenance issues include timing chain wear and potential spark plug issues, but overall, the powertrain is considered relatively robust. The 2007-2008 F-150 XI Regular Cab 4.6L Automatic represents a solid, if unspectacular, entry in the long and storied history of the Ford F-Series, continuing to serve as a capable workhorse for many years after its production run ended.
