The Ford F-150 XI SuperCab, equipped with the 5.4-liter V8 Triton engine producing 300 horsepower and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, was a popular configuration within the eleventh generation of the Ford F-Series, manufactured from 2004 to 2008. This variant occupied a mid-to-upper position in the F-150 lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and features for buyers needing a robust pickup truck for work and personal use. The SuperCab body style provided extended passenger space compared to the standard cab, making it suitable for families or crews. This model played a significant role in maintaining the F-Series’ dominance in the full-size pickup truck segment in North America.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XI SuperCab |
| 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 | 5-6 |
| 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 | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 200.2 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 | 2473-2653 kg (5452.03 – 5848.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3719 kg (8198.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1066-1246 kg (2350.13 – 2746.96 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%) | 4218 kg (9299.1 lbs.) |
| Length | 5532-6309 mm (217.8 – 248.39 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Height | 1867-1920 mm (73.5 – 75.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3366-4140 mm (132.52 – 162.99 in.) |
| Front track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 13.3-15.6 m (43.64 – 51.18 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 Steering |
| 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 is the 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine. This engine, designated as the 3V due to its three valves per cylinder, represented a significant upgrade over earlier two-valve Triton designs. The engine block is constructed from cast iron, while the cylinder heads are aluminum alloy, contributing to a relatively lightweight design for its size. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with variable valve timing (VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, enhancing both low-end torque and high-rpm power. The 4R75E four-speed automatic transmission is a robust unit designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. It features electronic control for smooth and precise shifting, and is known for its durability.
Driving Characteristics
The 300-horsepower 5.4-liter V8, coupled with the four-speed automatic, provided a respectable level of performance for the F-150. While not as quick as the higher-output engines like the 5.4L SuperCab, it offered ample power for everyday driving, towing, and hauling. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both fuel efficiency and towing capability. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically took around 7.5-8.5 seconds, depending on the vehicle’s weight and configuration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in city traffic. However, the manual transmission generally provided slightly better fuel economy and a more direct connection to the engine.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 XI SuperCab 5.4L 4×4 Automatic was typically offered in the XLT and Lariat trim levels. The XLT trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player, and cloth upholstery. The Lariat trim added features like leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a premium sound system, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a power sunroof, navigation system, and a trailer towing package. The SuperCab configuration offered a split bench seat in the rear, providing seating for up to three passengers, or optional captain’s chairs for a more comfortable experience.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s chassis featured a fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for both on-road and off-road driving. The front suspension utilized an independent double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-150 XI SuperCab 5.4L 4×4 Automatic was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. Fuel economy, however, was a common criticism, averaging around 14-16 mpg in mixed driving conditions. Compared to the 4.6-liter V8 F-150, the 5.4-liter offered significantly more power and torque, making it a better choice for those who frequently towed or hauled heavy loads. The 5.4L also offered a more refined driving experience. Compared to diesel-powered F-150s, the 5.4L offered lower initial cost but higher fuel consumption.
Legacy
The 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine, in this configuration, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although some issues with spark plug breakage and timing chain tensioner failure have been reported. Properly maintained examples continue to provide years of service. In the used car market, the F-150 XI SuperCab 5.4L 4×4 Automatic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and affordable full-size pickup truck. Its combination of power, space, and features makes it a versatile vehicle for a wide range of applications.
