The Ford F-150 XIV Regular Cab, equipped with the 3.5 EcoBoost V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running F-Series lineup. Produced from October 2020 through 2023, this configuration aimed to deliver a blend of substantial power and reasonable efficiency within the full-size pickup truck segment. Positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level offering, it catered to buyers needing robust capability without necessarily opting for the highest luxury appointments found in Limited or Platinum models. This variant was a key component of the fourteenth generation (XIV) F-150, which introduced substantial aluminum bodywork and updated technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIV Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 EcoBoost V6 (400 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| 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) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5 kg/Hp, 199.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 337.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 114.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 678 Nm @ 3100 rpm (500.07 lb.-ft. @ 3100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3 (213.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.46 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.61 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2009 kg (4429.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3561 kg (7850.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1552 kg (3421.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2192 l (77.41 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87-136 l (22.98 – 35.93 US gal | 19.14 – 29.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5897 kg (13000.66 lbs.) |
| Length | 5784 mm (227.72 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2123 mm (83.58 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2431 mm (95.71 in.) |
| Height | 1910 mm (75.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3594 mm (141.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Front overhang | 955 mm (37.6 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1234 mm (48.58 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 211 mm (8.31 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.1 m (46.26 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21° |
| Departure angle | 23.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive. Internal Combustion engine. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 336×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17 110T; 265/70 R17 115T; 265/60 R18 110T; 275/65 R18 116T; 275/60 R20 115T; 275/50 R22 115T |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8.5J x 20; 9J x 22 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford F-150 XIV Regular Cab 3.5 EcoBoost V6 Automatic, launched in late 2020, represented a significant step forward in pickup truck technology. Built on the 1HX0 platform, this F-150 generation prioritized weight reduction through extensive use of high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy in the body panels. This, combined with the potent 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, aimed to deliver improved fuel economy and performance compared to previous steel-bodied models. The Regular Cab configuration, with its two doors and three-passenger seating, catered to buyers prioritizing functionality and affordability over passenger space. It served as a workhorse option within the broader F-150 lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this F-150 variant lies the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, internally designated as the third-generation “Narro” engine. This engine utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration with a single scroll turbocharger for quicker spool-up and reduced turbo lag. Direct fuel injection, combined with port fuel injection, optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 400 horsepower at 6000 rpm and a substantial 500 lb-ft of torque at 3100 rpm. The 10-speed automatic transmission, dubbed “SelectShift,” is a crucial component of this powertrain. It features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing for both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The transmission’s sophisticated control algorithms adapt to driving conditions and driver input, optimizing shift points for performance or fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to lower-powered F-150 configurations, such as those with the 3.3L V6. Acceleration is brisk, and the engine provides ample torque for towing and hauling. The 10-speed transmission contributes to smooth and responsive shifts, minimizing disruptions in power delivery. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the F-150 offers a comfortable and capable ride. The wide gear ratios allow the engine to operate within its optimal power band more frequently, resulting in strong performance even when fully loaded. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic offers convenience and ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 XIV Regular Cab 3.5 EcoBoost typically came standard with features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and power windows and locks. Higher trim levels, such as XLT and Lariat, added features like upgraded upholstery, a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and advanced safety technologies. Optional extras included a tow package, off-road packages with skid plates and upgraded suspension, and premium sound systems. Interior materials varied depending on the trim level, ranging from durable cloth to leather-trimmed surfaces.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XIV utilizes a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel. The front suspension features an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration provides a balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The rear axle ratios varied depending on the specific configuration and optional equipment, influencing both towing capacity and fuel economy.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.5 EcoBoost V6-equipped F-150 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. The engine was praised for its strong performance and relatively good fuel economy for a full-size pickup truck. The 10-speed automatic transmission was also well-received for its smooth operation and responsiveness. Compared to the naturally aspirated V8 engines offered in the F-150 lineup, the EcoBoost provided comparable power with improved fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the EcoBoost engine could be more complex and potentially more expensive to repair than a traditional V8. Fuel economy figures averaged around 19.9 US mpg combined, which was competitive within the segment.
Legacy
The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 engine has become a mainstay in the Ford F-150 lineup, and the XIV generation established its reputation for reliability and performance. While early EcoBoost engines experienced some teething issues, Ford has addressed these concerns through ongoing engineering improvements. In the used car market, these F-150s hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with well-maintained service records. The combination of power, capability, and technology makes the F-150 XIV Regular Cab 3.5 EcoBoost a desirable option for buyers seeking a versatile and capable pickup truck.
