The Ford F-150, consistently the best-selling full-size pickup truck in the United States, underwent a significant facelift for the 2018 model year, representing the thirteenth generation (F-150 XIII). This refresh brought updated styling, new technology, and powertrain enhancements. Among the engine options available, the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost producing 375 horsepower and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a four-wheel-drive system, was a popular choice, positioned as a strong mid-range offering balancing power, capability, and fuel efficiency. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2018 through October 2020.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII SuperCab (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (375 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 375 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 637 Nm @ 3500 rpm (469.83 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3490 cm3 (212.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| 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 capacity | 14.35 l (15.16 US qt | 12.63 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 1764 l (62.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l (22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 5890-6363 mm (231.89 – 250.51 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 | 1956-1961 mm (77.01 – 77.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3683-4158 mm (145 – 163.7 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 236-239 mm (9.29 – 9.41 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| 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 | 275/45 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 22 |
Introduction
The 2018-2020 Ford F-150 facelift built upon the success of the aluminum-bodied thirteenth generation, introduced in 2015. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with 375 horsepower and the 10-speed automatic transmission represented a significant step up in performance and refinement compared to the base engine options. Available in SuperCab (extended cab) and SuperCrew (crew cab) configurations, this variant aimed to appeal to buyers needing a capable work truck with a comfortable interior and modern features. It slotted into the middle of the F-150 lineup, offering more power and towing capacity than the base 3.3L V6, but at a lower price point than the high-output 3.5L EcoBoost or the 5.0L V8.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine (Ford engine code: GTDI) is a 24-valve, twin-turbocharged V6. It utilizes direct fuel injection, a split-port design, and variable valve timing to optimize performance and efficiency. The twin turbochargers, featuring cast stainless steel turbines, provide significant boost across a wide RPM range, minimizing turbo lag. The 10-speed automatic transmission (Ford 10R80) is a crucial component of this powertrain. Its wide gear ratio spread allows for both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The transmission features fully electronic control and is designed for durability and smooth shifting. The 4×4 system employs an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to seamlessly switch between 2WD, 4WD Auto, 4WD High, and 4WD Low.
Driving Characteristics
The 375-horsepower 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 delivers a noticeably more responsive driving experience than the base V6. The twin turbos provide ample torque from low RPMs, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in quick acceleration. While not as raw or visceral as the 5.0L V8, the EcoBoost offers a refined and capable driving experience. The gear ratios in the 10-speed transmission are closely spaced, contributing to smooth and efficient power delivery. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic provides ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic and when towing. The 4×4 system provides excellent traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-road vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5L EcoBoost engine was available on a variety of F-150 trim levels, including XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. Standard equipment on the XLT trim typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. Higher trims like the Lariat added leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and more advanced safety features. The King Ranch and Platinum trims offered even more luxurious appointments, such as premium leather, wood trim, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, and various towing packages.
Chassis & Braking
The 2018-2020 F-150 utilizes a high-strength steel frame with an aluminum alloy body. The front suspension features independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employs leaf springs. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The specific brake rotor size and caliper design varied depending on the trim level and optional equipment. The SuperCab configuration generally had slightly smaller brakes than the SuperCrew models. Stabilizer bars were standard on most trims, contributing to improved handling and reduced body roll.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with the 10-speed automatic was widely praised by automotive critics for its combination of power, efficiency, and refinement. It consistently outperformed the base V6 in acceleration and towing tests. Fuel economy was competitive for a full-size pickup truck, although still relatively low compared to smaller vehicles. Compared to the 5.0L V8, the EcoBoost offered similar performance with slightly better fuel economy, but some reviewers preferred the V8’s traditional engine sound. The 3.5L EcoBoost was also seen as a more compelling alternative to the diesel-powered F-150 for buyers who didn’t require the diesel’s ultimate towing capacity.
Legacy
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain in the F-150. While early EcoBoost engines (prior to 2015) experienced some issues with timing chain tensioners, the later versions, including the 2018-2020 models, have demonstrated improved reliability. On the used car market, F-150s equipped with this engine and transmission combination hold their value well, due to their strong performance and reputation for dependability. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and spark plug replacements, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of this powertrain. The 3.5L EcoBoost continues to be a popular engine choice in the F-150, demonstrating its enduring appeal to truck buyers.
