The Ford F-Series F-150 XI Regular Cab, equipped with the 5.4-liter V8 Triton engine producing 300 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a mainstay of Ford’s full-size pickup truck lineup from 2004 through the 2008 model year. This configuration represented a mid-range offering within the F-150 series, positioned between the base V6 models and the higher-performance, larger displacement V8 options. It was a key component of the eleventh generation (2004-2008) of the F-Series, known for its significant styling and engineering updates compared to its predecessor. The “XI” designation denoted a specific trim level within the broader F-150 range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XI Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.4 V8 Triton (300 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | July, 2008 |
| 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) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.7 kg/Hp, 129.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 300 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 495 Nm @ 3750 rpm (365.09 lb.-ft. @ 3750 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 | 105.92 mm (4.17 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 | 19.8 l (20.92 US qt | 17.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2317-2455 kg (5108.11 – 5412.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3719 kg (8198.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1264-1402 kg (2786.64 – 3090.88 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%) | 4309 kg (9499.72 lbs.) |
| Length | 5364-5837 mm (211.18 – 229.8 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Height | 1875-1920 mm (73.82 – 75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3200-3670 mm (125.98 – 144.49 in.) |
| Front track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) 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. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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; 245/70 R17; 275/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant was 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 the 3V (three valves per cylinder) architecture introduced in 2004. The 3V design, incorporating two intake valves and one exhaust valve per cylinder, improved volumetric efficiency and contributed to the engine’s power output. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, and the engine utilized a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with variable valve timing (VCT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This VCT system optimized engine performance across a wider RPM range. The four-speed automatic transmission (typically the 4R75E) was chosen for its durability and suitability for towing and hauling. It provided relatively smooth shifts, but lacked the efficiency of more modern transmissions with higher gear counts.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.4-liter V8 with the four-speed automatic delivered adequate, but not exceptional, performance. Acceleration was reasonable for a full-size pickup, but noticeably slower than the F-150 models equipped with the larger 5.8-liter V8. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared more towards towing and hauling than outright speed. The 4R75E transmission, while robust, didn’t offer the tight ratios found in later transmissions, resulting in a wider gap between gears. In real-world driving, the 300 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque were sufficient for everyday tasks and moderate towing, but the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or climbing steep hills. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 XI Regular Cab with the 5.4-liter V8 and automatic transmission typically included standard features such as air conditioning, a basic AM/FM radio, and vinyl upholstery. The “XI” trim level generally offered a step up in features compared to the base XL trim, often including features like color-matched exterior trim, upgraded interior materials, and potentially a basic CD player. Optional extras included power windows and locks, cruise control, a towing package, and upgraded audio systems. Interior appointments were functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s chassis featured a fully boxed frame designed for strength and rigidity. The front suspension utilized an independent double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design. This combination provided a comfortable ride, but the leaf springs could sometimes result in a somewhat bouncy ride when unloaded. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system was adequate for the truck’s weight, but lacked the stopping power of more modern braking systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.4-liter V8/automatic combination was a popular choice for F-150 buyers who needed a capable truck for work and occasional towing. Critics generally praised the engine’s torque output and durability, but noted that its fuel economy was relatively poor compared to the V6 options. The four-speed automatic transmission was seen as a weakness, particularly as competitors began offering transmissions with more gears. Compared to the 5.8-liter V8, the 5.4-liter offered a lower price point but sacrificed some performance. Compared to the smaller V6 engines, the 5.4-liter provided significantly more power and towing capacity.
Legacy
The 5.4-liter Triton V8, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit some common issues over time, including spark plug ejection (early versions) and timing chain wear. However, with proper maintenance, these engines can remain serviceable for many years. In the used car market, F-150s equipped with this powertrain are generally considered to be good value, offering a balance of capability and affordability. The 4R75E transmission is also generally durable, but may require servicing or rebuilding at higher mileage. This particular F-150 configuration represents a transitional period in pickup truck design, bridging the gap between older, more basic trucks and the more sophisticated and fuel-efficient models that followed.
