The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Ford Motor Company, and has been the best-selling vehicle in the United States for over four decades. The thirteenth generation, produced from 2015 to 2017, represented a significant shift in F-150 construction, utilizing a high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body on a fully boxed steel frame. Within this generation, the F-150 was offered with a variety of engine and transmission combinations, catering to a broad spectrum of buyers. This article focuses on the Regular Cab configuration equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 375 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission – a configuration positioned as a strong all-around performer within the F-150 lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (375 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 187 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 317.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 375 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 106.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 637 Nm @ 3500 rpm (469.83 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3514 cm3 (214.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.4 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87.6 mm (3.45 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.75 l (15.59 US qt | 12.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2005 kg (4420.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1495 l (52.8 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2200 l (77.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l (22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 5316-5789 mm (209.29 – 227.91 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2121 mm (83.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2459 mm (96.81 in.) |
| Height | 1908-1918 mm (75.12 – 75.51 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3109-3584 mm (122.4 – 141.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1247 mm (49.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-224 mm (8.58 – 8.82 in.) |
| Approach angle | 24.1-24.8° |
| Departure angle | 24.6-24.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.3-22.1° |
| 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 | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2015-2017 Ford F-150 Regular Cab 3.5L V6 Automatic represented a sweet spot in the F-150 range for buyers prioritizing capability and efficiency. Positioned between the base 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 and the more powerful 5.0L V8 and 3.5L EcoBoost options, this configuration offered a compelling blend of performance and fuel economy. The Regular Cab body style, with its two doors and three-person seating, catered to those needing a work truck or a more basic, affordable pickup. This variant was built on the 1HX0 platform, sharing its core structure with other F-150 models but distinguished by its specific powertrain and trim offerings.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this F-150 variant lies Ford’s 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine. This engine, designated with various internal codes depending on the specific year and calibration, utilizes direct fuel injection and twin-turbocharging to deliver a robust 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The twin-turbo setup employs two smaller turbochargers to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, flat torque curve. The engine features a 10.5:1 compression ratio and a four-valve-per-cylinder design, contributing to its efficiency and power output. Paired with this engine is Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, a significant advancement over the previous six-speed unit. This transmission offers a wider gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently, improving both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission’s sophisticated control logic also enables smoother shifting and quicker response times.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5L V6 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience for a full-size pickup. While not as overtly powerful as the larger V8 or EcoBoost engines, it provides ample power for everyday driving and hauling tasks. The twin-turbochargers provide strong low-end torque, making it easy to accelerate from a standstill or maintain speed on highway inclines. The 10-speed transmission is a key contributor to the driving experience, keeping the engine in its sweet spot and providing smooth, almost imperceptible shifts. Compared to the base naturally aspirated 3.5L V6, this turbocharged version offers a substantial performance upgrade. The manual transmission options, when available on other F-150 trims, offered a more direct connection to the engine, but the automatic provided greater convenience and ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 Regular Cab 3.5L V6 Automatic was typically offered in base XL, mid-range XLT, and higher-end Lariat trim levels. The XL trim provided a no-frills work truck experience, with standard features including air conditioning, a basic audio system, and vinyl upholstery. The XLT trim added features such as power windows and locks, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. The Lariat trim offered a more luxurious experience, with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced safety features. Optional extras included a trailer tow package, a navigation system, and a sunroof.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s chassis features a fully boxed steel frame, providing a strong and rigid foundation. The front suspension utilizes a double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a leaf spring setup. This combination provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The Regular Cab configuration, being lighter than extended cab or crew cab models, generally offered slightly more nimble handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2015-2017 F-150 with the 3.5L V6 and 10-speed automatic received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, smooth shifting transmission, and improved fuel economy compared to previous generations. Compared to the 5.0L V8, the 3.5L V6 offered comparable power with slightly better fuel efficiency. The EcoBoost engines provided even more power, but at a higher price point. The 3.5L V6 Automatic struck a balance between performance, efficiency, and affordability, making it a popular choice among buyers.
Legacy
The 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine, and the 10-speed automatic transmission, have become staples in the Ford F-150 lineup. The powertrain proved to be reliable, with few widespread issues reported. In the used car market, these F-150s continue to be sought after for their combination of capability, comfort, and value. The aluminum body construction, while initially met with some skepticism, has proven to be durable and has contributed to the F-150’s continued success as the best-selling pickup truck in America.
