The Ford F-Series F-150 XII SuperCab, equipped with the 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 292 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive system and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of America’s best-selling vehicle. Produced from 2008 through 2010, this variant occupied a middle ground within the twelfth generation (2009-2014) F-150 lineup, offering a balance between capability, comfort, and affordability. The SuperCab configuration provided extended passenger space compared to the standard cab, making it a popular choice for families and those needing occasional rear-seat access. This model year marked a transition period for the F-150, incorporating updated styling and features while retaining the proven mechanical foundation of its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII SuperCab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.6 V8 (292 Hp) 4×4 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 | 292 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 434 Nm @ 4000 rpm (320.1 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 | 90.17 mm (3.55 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3152 kg (6948.97 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%) | 4264 kg (9400.51 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 | 1928-1938 mm (75.91 – 76.3 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3366-3670 mm (132.52 – 144.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 221-249 mm (8.7 – 9.8 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3-14.3 m (43.64 – 46.92 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 23.7-25° |
| Departure angle | 20.4-20.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18-19.8° |
| 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 and type of gearbox | 6 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 | 255/70 R17; 275/65 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine, specifically the version designated as the 2V. This engine, part of Ford’s long-running Modular engine family, features a cast-iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The 2V designation refers to the two valves per cylinder. 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, simplifying valvetrain complexity while maintaining adequate performance. The 4R75E four-speed automatic transmission is paired with the engine, chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s torque output. This transmission features electronic control for smoother shifting and improved fuel efficiency compared to earlier designs. The 4×4 system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to seamlessly switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.6-liter V8 and four-speed automatic combination delivered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically took around 7.5-8.5 seconds, depending on vehicle weight and configuration. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, resulting in a relatively conservative shift pattern. While the engine provided sufficient low-end torque for everyday driving and work tasks, it lacked the responsiveness of the larger 5.4-liter V8 or the turbocharged EcoBoost engines that would arrive in later F-150 models. The four-speed automatic, while reliable, felt dated compared to the six- and eight-speed transmissions becoming increasingly common in the industry. Fuel economy was typical for a full-size pickup of this era, averaging around 15 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 SuperCab 4.6L 4×4 Automatic was typically offered in XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels. The base XL trim provided essential features such as air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The mid-range XLT added features like power windows and locks, keyless entry, and upgraded interior trim. The top-of-the-line Lariat trim included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and chrome exterior accents. Optional extras included a power moonroof, navigation system, and a 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 comfort and off-road durability. 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 between ride quality 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 equipment, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-150 SuperCab 4.6L 4×4 Automatic was a popular choice for buyers seeking a versatile and capable pickup truck. Critics generally praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong towing capacity. However, some reviewers noted that the 4.6-liter V8 felt underpowered compared to the larger engine options. Compared to the 5.4-liter V8, the 4.6L offered better fuel economy but sacrificed performance. The 4.6L was also a more affordable option, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. Compared to diesel-powered F-150s, the 4.6L offered a quieter and smoother driving experience but lacked the diesel’s superior torque and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant, with many examples still on the road today. While not known for exceptional fuel economy, the engine’s simplicity and robust construction contribute to its longevity. The 4R75E automatic transmission is also generally considered to be a reliable unit, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure its continued operation. In the used car market, these F-150s represent a relatively affordable entry point into full-size pickup ownership, offering a good balance of capability and value. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues such as spark plug breakage (a common problem with the Modular V8) and corrosion in areas prone to rust.
