The Ford F-Series F-150 XII Regular Cab, equipped with the 5.4-liter V8 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series line of pickup trucks. Produced from 2008 through 2010, this configuration occupied a middle ground within the F-150 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. It was part of the twelfth generation (2009-2014) of the F-Series, known internally as the F-150 XII, and built on a fully boxed frame designed to improve strength and durability. This particular variant catered to buyers needing substantial towing and hauling capacity without the premium price tag of higher trim levels or the fuel economy concerns associated with the smaller 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) 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) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 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 | 3198 kg (7050.38 lbs.) |
| 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%) | 4037 kg (8900.06 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885 mm (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 | 1935 mm (76.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3670 mm (144.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 251 mm (9.88 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3 m (46.92 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 348 mm |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Tires size | 255/65 R17; 265/60 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is Ford’s 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine. This engine, designated with various codes depending on the specific year and calibration, is a three-valve-per-cylinder design featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and variable valve timing (VCT). The multi-port fuel injection system delivers fuel directly to each cylinder, optimizing combustion. The 5.4L Triton was known for its robust construction and relatively smooth power delivery. Paired with this engine was a six-speed automatic transmission, a significant upgrade from the four-speed units found in earlier F-150s. This transmission offered improved shift quality and helped to maximize fuel efficiency, although it wasn’t a class leader in either regard. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration were standard for the F-150.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.4-liter V8, producing 310 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque, provided ample power for everyday driving and towing. While not as quick as the higher-output 6.2-liter V8, it offered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 4.6-liter engine or the smaller V6 options. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during downshifts. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing towing capability over outright speed. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic version offered greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, but at the expense of some driver control and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.4-liter V8 engine was typically offered on the XLT and Lariat trim levels of the F-150. Standard features on these trims included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. The Lariat trim added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a more advanced audio system. Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages. The Regular Cab configuration, as found in this variant, featured a bench seat and was primarily geared towards work and utility rather than passenger comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII Regular Cab utilized a robust fully boxed frame construction, providing a solid foundation for the truck. The front suspension consisted of an independent double wishbone setup, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring design. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard. The rear leaf spring setup, while effective for hauling, could sometimes result in a slightly harsher ride compared to coil-spring rear suspensions found on some competing trucks.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.4-liter V8/automatic combination was a popular choice among F-150 buyers who needed a capable truck for work and recreation. Critics generally praised the engine’s power and torque, but noted that its fuel economy was not particularly impressive. Compared to the 4.6-liter V8, the 5.4-liter offered a significant performance boost, but at a higher price point. The 6.2-liter V8, available on higher trim levels, provided even more power but came with a substantial premium. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with spark plug breakage, a common problem with the Triton V8 engine family.
Legacy
The 5.4-liter Triton V8 engine remained in production for many years, powering a wide range of Ford vehicles. While later iterations of the engine addressed some of the early reliability concerns, the 2008-2010 F-150 with this engine remains a relatively affordable and capable used truck. The six-speed automatic transmission proved to be a durable and reliable unit. Today, these trucks are often sought after by those looking for a workhorse pickup that can handle a variety of tasks. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, although preventative maintenance, such as regular oil changes and spark plug replacements, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. The 5.4L F-150 represents a sweet spot for many buyers, offering a good balance of power, capability, and value in the used truck market.
