The Ford F-150 XII SuperCrew, 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 dominance in the full-size pickup segment in North America, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and technology. The SuperCrew configuration, characterized by its four full-size doors and spacious rear seating, catered to families and those needing passenger capacity alongside truck functionality. Among the various engine and drivetrain options available, the 4.6-liter V8 paired with a four-speed automatic transmission occupied a significant position as a balance between affordability, power, and everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII SuperCrew |
| 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 | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 248 Hp @ 4750 rpm |
| 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 | 3084 kg (6799.06 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%) | 2585 kg (5698.95 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885-6190 mm (231.69 – 243.7 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 | 1887 mm (74.29 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3670-3975 mm (144.49 – 156.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 198-211 mm (7.8 – 8.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 14.3-15.4 m (46.92 – 50.52 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | 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 as the 2V. This engine, part of Ford’s long-running Modular engine family, featured a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. The “2V” designation indicated a two-valve per cylinder configuration, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-port fuel injection system, providing precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The 4.6L engine produced 248 horsepower at 4750 rpm and 294 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine was longitudinally mounted in the chassis, driving the rear wheels. Paired with this engine was a four-speed automatic transmission, a reliable but somewhat dated unit by the late 2000s. This transmission offered smooth shifts but lacked the efficiency and gear ratios of newer automatic transmissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 4.6-liter V8 and four-speed automatic combination delivered adequate performance for most everyday driving scenarios. Acceleration was respectable, though not particularly brisk, and the truck felt capable when towing lighter loads. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy and smooth cruising rather than outright acceleration. Compared to the available 5.4-liter V8, the 4.6L offered less power and towing capacity, but it also provided better fuel economy. Against the diesel options, the 4.6L lacked the low-end torque favored for heavy hauling, but it was quieter and less expensive to maintain. The ride quality, typical of a full-size pickup, was firm but generally comfortable, especially with the SuperCrew’s longer wheelbase.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 4.6-liter V8 engine was offered across several F-150 trim levels, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The base XL trim was typically spartan, featuring basic amenities like air conditioning, a CD player, 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 luxurious option, offering leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium sound system, and additional chrome exterior trim. Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS). Optional extras included a navigation system, a sunroof, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII SuperCrew utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension employed an independent double wishbone design, while the rear suspension featured a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration balanced ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the truck’s weight. ABS was standard, enhancing braking performance in slippery conditions. Steering was rack-and-pinion, with power assistance for ease of maneuverability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 4.6-liter V8-equipped F-150 was well-received by consumers seeking a balance of capability and affordability. Critics generally praised the engine’s smooth operation and adequate power, but noted that it lacked the refinement and fuel efficiency of some competitors. Compared to the 5.4-liter V8, the 4.6L offered a lower price point and slightly better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for buyers who didn’t require maximum towing capacity. The four-speed automatic transmission was seen as a weakness, as newer trucks were beginning to offer more advanced transmissions with more gears.
Legacy
The 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine proved to be a durable and reliable powerplant, with many examples still on the road today. While not known for exceptional fuel economy, the engine’s relatively simple design and readily available parts contribute to its longevity. The four-speed automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as later designs, is also generally reliable. In the used car market, the 4.6-liter F-150 SuperCrew represents a relatively affordable entry point into the full-size pickup segment, offering a capable and comfortable vehicle for everyday use. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
