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. This particular variant, the Regular Cab configuration powered by the 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 385 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system, occupied a middle ground in the F-150 lineup, offering a balance of capability, performance, and affordability. It catered to buyers needing a robust work truck without the added expense of higher trim levels or the larger cab configurations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 V8 (385 Hp) 4×4 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) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 188 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 256.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 525 Nm @ 3850 rpm (387.22 lb.-ft. @ 3850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 4949 cm3 (302.01 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.2 mm (3.63 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.7 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 15 l (15.85 US qt | 13.2 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2048-2092 kg (4515.07 – 4612.07 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 | 1953 mm (76.89 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) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Approach angle | 24.8-25.7° |
| Departure angle | 26.8-27.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22.1-24.7° |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the “Coyote” 5.0-liter V8 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant, designated internally as the 5.0L Ti-VCT, utilizes a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust valves. This technology optimizes engine performance across the rev range. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 5.0L V8 produces 385 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 387 lb-ft of torque at 3850 rpm. This power is then channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission (6R80E) known for its durability and smooth shifting. The 6R80E features a wide gear ratio spread, providing both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The four-wheel-drive system utilizes an electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case, allowing the driver to seamlessly switch between 2H (two-wheel drive), 4H (four-wheel drive high), and 4L (four-wheel drive low) depending on road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0L V8 and six-speed automatic combination in the F-150 Regular Cab delivers a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base 3.5L EcoBoost or the 3.7L V6 options. Acceleration is brisk, and the engine provides ample power for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and predictable shifts. While not as fuel-efficient as the EcoBoost engines, the 5.0L V8 offers a more traditional V8 sound and feel. The Regular Cab configuration, combined with the 4×4 system, provides a comfortable ride on paved roads, while still offering excellent off-road capability. The gear ratios in the 6R80E are optimized for both towing and everyday driving, providing a good balance of power and efficiency. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic offers convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic, but may slightly reduce fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.0L V8 engine was typically offered in the XLT and Lariat trim levels of the F-150. The XLT trim included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and steel wheels. Optional packages for the XLT could add features like alloy wheels, a trailer tow package, and an upgraded infotainment system. The Lariat trim added more luxurious features, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, and chrome exterior trim. Both trims offered a range of optional extras, including a navigation system, a sunroof, and various driver-assistance technologies.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s chassis features a fully boxed steel frame designed for strength and durability. The front suspension utilizes an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination provides a comfortable ride and good load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system is adequately sized for the truck’s weight and provides confident stopping power. The 4×4 system contributes to enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.0L V8-equipped F-150 was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It offered a compelling alternative to the EcoBoost engines, providing a more traditional V8 experience. Fuel economy was generally considered acceptable for a full-size pickup truck, although it lagged behind the EcoBoost models. Reliability was generally good, with the 5.0L V8 proving to be a durable and dependable engine. Compared to the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 5.0L V8 offered a simpler, more straightforward powertrain with fewer potential points of failure. However, the EcoBoost engines offered superior fuel economy and, in some cases, comparable or even slightly better performance.
Legacy
The 2015-2017 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 and six-speed automatic remains a popular choice in the used truck market. The “Coyote” V8 engine has earned a reputation for reliability and longevity, and parts availability is excellent. These trucks offer a good balance of capability, comfort, and affordability, making them a practical choice for both work and personal use. While newer F-150 models offer more advanced technology and features, the thirteenth-generation F-150 continues to be a capable and dependable workhorse.
