The Ford F-150 XIV SuperCab, specifically equipped with the 3.3 Ti-VCT V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the highly competitive full-size pickup truck segment. Produced from October 2020 through 2023, this variant occupied a key position in the F-150 lineup, serving as a balance between affordability, capability, and fuel efficiency. It falls within the fourteenth generation (F-150 XIV) of the iconic F-Series, known for its robust construction and continuous innovation. This configuration was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile truck for both work and personal use, without the higher price tag associated with the more powerful engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-100/F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.3 Ti-VCT V6 (290 Hp) FFV 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) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.8 kg/Hp, 147.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 359 Nm @ 4000 rpm (264.78 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3340 cm3 (203.82 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 90.42 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.61 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1971 kg (4345.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2939 kg (6479.39 lbs.) |
| Max load | 968 kg (2134.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1764 l (62.3 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%) | 3719 kg (8198.99 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 | 1918 mm (75.51 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) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.6 m (47.9 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.5° |
| Departure angle | 23.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.6° |
| 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 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford F-150 XIV SuperCab 3.3L is a full-size pickup truck manufactured by Ford from 2021 to 2023. It is part of the fourteenth generation of the F-Series, which began production in 2015. The SuperCab configuration offers extended rear seating, providing more passenger space than the standard cab models. This particular variant, powered by the 3.3-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, was positioned as the entry-level engine option for the F-150, offering a balance of affordability and capability. It was designed to appeal to customers who didn’t require the higher towing and hauling capacities of the larger engines, but still wanted the versatility of a full-size pickup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 3.3-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine. This engine, internally designated as the third generation of the Cyclone family, features dual independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) for optimized performance and efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection combined with multi-port fuel injection, maximizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine produces 290 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 264.78 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, co-developed with General Motors, provides a wide range of gear ratios for improved acceleration, towing, and fuel economy. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and responsiveness. The engine is designed to run on regular gasoline, but is also flexible fuel capable (FFV), meaning it can operate on blends of gasoline and ethanol, up to E85.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.3L V6 and 10-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as powerful as the turbocharged EcoBoost engines or the larger V8 options, the 3.3L provides adequate power for everyday driving and light to moderate towing. The 10-speed transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. The gear ratios are well-spaced, allowing for smooth and efficient cruising on the highway. Compared to the manual transmission options available on other F-150 trims, the automatic offers greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, it does sacrifice some driver engagement and control. The weight distribution is typical for a body-on-frame pickup truck, resulting in a stable and predictable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-150 XIV SuperCab 3.3L typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. 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 features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a tow package, a premium sound system, and various appearance packages. The SuperCab configuration offered a split-folding rear seat, providing flexible cargo and passenger space. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the truck’s work-oriented nature.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XIV 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 disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The size of the front discs is 350×34 mm, and the rear discs are 336×20 mm. The braking system is adequate for the truck’s weight and intended use, providing confident stopping power in most conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-150 XIV SuperCab 3.3L was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency, especially compared to the larger engine options. However, some reviewers noted that the 3.3L engine could feel underpowered when towing heavy loads or driving uphill. Compared to the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, the 3.3L offered a lower price point but less overall performance. The 5.0L V8 provided significantly more power but came with a higher fuel consumption. The 3.3L’s fuel economy averaged around 21 mpg combined, making it a relatively efficient option in the full-size pickup segment.
Legacy
The 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission combination proved to be a reliable powertrain in the F-150. While not as sought-after as the EcoBoost engines, the 3.3L variant remains a viable option in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking an affordable and dependable truck for everyday use. Its relatively simple design and proven reliability contribute to lower maintenance costs compared to the more complex turbocharged engines. As of today, these F-150s continue to be a popular choice for those needing a capable and versatile pickup truck without the premium price tag.
