The Ford F-150 XII SuperCab, produced from 2008 to 2010, represented the twelfth generation of Ford’s immensely popular F-Series pickup truck. This iteration continued the F-150’s legacy as a full-size pickup designed for both work and personal use, offering a range of configurations to suit diverse needs. The 4.6-liter V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission was a significant offering within the lineup, positioned as a balance between capability and affordability. It served as a step up from the base V6 models, providing increased towing capacity and horsepower for those requiring more than basic utility, while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance 5.4-liter V8 and diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII SuperCab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 V8 (248 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2008 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 248 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 53.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 399 Nm @ 4000 rpm (294.29 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4606 cm3 (281.08 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 | 15.5 l (16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3039 kg (6699.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1572 l (55.51 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1855 l (65.51 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2631 kg (5800.36 lbs.) |
| Length | 5585-5885 mm (219.88 – 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 | 1816-1890 mm (71.5 – 74.41 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3366-3670 mm (132.52 – 144.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208-213 mm (8.19 – 8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3-14.3 m (43.64 – 46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.1-22.2° |
| Departure angle | 18.3-18.8° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 15.7° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, 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 | 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 was the 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine, specifically the version designated within the Ford family as part of the Triton series. This engine, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, was known for its relatively simple construction and durability. The engine featured multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into each intake port for improved combustion efficiency. The 4.6L engine produced 248 horsepower at 4750 rpm and 399 Nm (294.29 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting allowed for a rear-wheel-drive configuration, standard for the F-150. Paired with the engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth shifting and adequate power delivery for everyday driving and towing. This transmission, while not as sophisticated as some of the newer automatic transmissions with more gears, was reliable and well-suited to the engine’s characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.6-liter V8 with the four-speed automatic offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for most situations, though not as brisk as the larger 5.4-liter V8. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance of fuel economy and towing performance. In real-world conditions, the 4.6L F-150 felt responsive enough for daily commuting and highway cruising. However, when heavily loaded or towing, the engine could feel strained, and the four-speed automatic lacked the flexibility of transmissions with more gears to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic sacrificed some responsiveness and fuel efficiency, but offered greater convenience, particularly for drivers who frequently encountered stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.6-liter V8 engine was available on several trim levels of the F-150 SuperCab, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The base XL trim offered a more utilitarian experience, with standard features like air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The XLT trim added features such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, and upgraded interior materials. The Lariat trim represented the more premium offering, with leather upholstery, woodgrain interior trim, and additional convenience features. Optional extras available for this trim included a towing package, upgraded audio systems, and a power sunroof. The SuperCab configuration provided extra passenger space behind the front seats, making it a practical choice for families or crews.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII SuperCab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured a double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs, a traditional setup for pickup trucks. This configuration offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The rear leaf spring suspension was tuned to handle the weight of typical payloads and towing scenarios.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.6-liter V8 F-150 was generally well-received by critics and consumers as a solid all-around performer. It offered a good compromise between power, fuel economy, and price. Compared to the 5.4-liter V8, the 4.6L provided slightly better fuel economy, but with a noticeable reduction in horsepower and towing capacity. The 4.6L also offered a more affordable entry point into the F-150 lineup. Reliability was generally good, with the 4.6L engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant. However, some owners reported issues with spark plug breakage, a common problem with the Triton V8 engines.
Legacy
The 4.6-liter V8 engine continued to be a popular choice in the F-150 for several years after the XII SuperCab generation. While later models saw the introduction of more advanced engines and transmissions, the 4.6L remains a relatively common sight on the used car market. Its simplicity and durability make it a relatively easy engine to maintain, and parts are readily available. Today, these F-150s are often sought after as affordable and capable work trucks or as classic pickups for enthusiasts. The 4.6L automatic combination represents a sweet spot for those seeking a reliable and practical full-size truck without the expense of the higher-end trims or the complexity of newer technologies.
