The Ford F-150 XIV SuperCab, produced from 2020 to 2023, represented a significant iteration of America’s best-selling vehicle. This generation, the fourteenth for the F-Series, introduced a new 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 turbodiesel engine option, aimed at buyers seeking a balance of capability, fuel efficiency, and refinement. The 3.0 Power Stroke in the SuperCab configuration, paired with a 4×4 drivetrain and a 10-speed automatic transmission, occupied a middle ground in the F-150 lineup, offering a compelling alternative to the gasoline engines and the larger, more expensive diesel options. It was positioned as a workhorse capable of towing and hauling, while also providing a more comfortable daily driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.0 Power Stroke V6 (250 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 250 Hp @ 3250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 597 Nm @ 1750 rpm (440.32 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3000 cm3 (183.07 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.07 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.92 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 13 l (13.74 US qt | 11.44 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2362 kg (5207.32 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3198 kg (7050.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 836 kg (1843.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1764 l (62.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5488 kg (12098.97 lbs.) |
| Length | 5885 mm (231.69 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 | 1961 mm (77.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3693 mm (145.39 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) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.6 m (47.9 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 24.6° |
| Departure angle | 25.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.2° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| 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 |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford F-150 XIV SuperCab, launched in late 2020, marked a significant step forward for the iconic pickup truck. The introduction of the 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel engine was a key feature, offering a new option for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and torque. The SuperCab body style, with its extended rear passenger area, provided increased versatility compared to the standard cab configuration. Built on the F-150 platform (1HX0), this variant aimed to bridge the gap between the gasoline-powered engines and the more powerful, but also more expensive, 3.5L EcoBoost and larger diesel options. Production continued through the 2023 model year, with the engine undergoing minor refinements during its lifespan.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 diesel, internally designated as the third-generation “Lion” engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The engine features a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler to enhance power and efficiency. The valvetrain employs four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and performance. The 10-speed automatic transmission, co-developed with General Motors, is a crucial component of this powertrain. Its wide gear ratio spread allows the engine to operate in its most efficient range more often, maximizing fuel economy and providing smooth, responsive shifts. The transmission’s SelectShift functionality allows for manual gear selection when desired.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 in the F-150 SuperCab delivers a distinct driving experience. While not as overtly powerful as the gasoline EcoBoost engines, it provides ample torque – 440 lb-ft – readily available from low RPMs. This makes it well-suited for towing and hauling, providing confident acceleration even with a load. The 10-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth and timely shifts. Compared to the gasoline engines, the diesel offers a more relaxed and refined driving experience, with less engine noise and vibration. Compared to the larger 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, this 3.0L engine prioritizes fuel efficiency and everyday usability over outright power. The gear ratios in the 10-speed transmission are optimized for both on-road cruising and off-road capability, providing a versatile driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.0 Power Stroke V6 was available across several F-150 trim levels, including XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum. Standard equipment on the XLT included features like a SYNC 4 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, FordPass Connect, and basic safety features. Higher trims, such as the Lariat, added leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a larger touchscreen, and more advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, and various off-road packages. The SuperCab configuration offered a split-folding rear bench seat, providing flexible seating and cargo-carrying options. Interior materials and finishes varied depending on the trim level, with higher trims featuring more luxurious appointments.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XIV SuperCab utilizes a high-strength steel frame and an aluminum-alloy body, contributing to its overall durability and reduced weight. The front suspension features an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a 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, with the front discs measuring 350x34mm and the rear discs measuring 336x20mm. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The 4×4 drivetrain features an electronically controlled transfer case, allowing the driver to easily switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 F-150 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, smooth power delivery, and refined driving experience. Compared to the gasoline engines, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, particularly during highway driving. Compared to the larger 6.7L Power Stroke diesel, the 3.0L engine was seen as a more practical choice for buyers who didn’t require maximum towing capacity. Some critics noted that the 3.0L engine could feel slightly underpowered when fully loaded or when climbing steep grades. However, the overall consensus was that it provided a compelling balance of performance, efficiency, and capability.
Legacy
The 3.0-liter Power Stroke V6 in the F-150 has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While some early models experienced issues with the fuel injection system, these were addressed through software updates and hardware revisions. On the used car market, these F-150s are generally well-regarded, offering a good value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and fuel-efficient pickup truck. The engine’s longevity and relatively low maintenance costs contribute to its appeal. The introduction of this engine demonstrated Ford’s commitment to offering a diverse range of powertrain options to meet the varying needs of its customers, and it remains a popular choice for those seeking a diesel-powered F-150.
