The Ford F-Series Super Duty has been refreshed for
the new model year with a series of upgrades, the most important being the
addition of a new 7.3-liter V8 engine, which joins the standard 6.2-liter V8
gasoline unit.
Ford’s still holding on to the performance specs,
but they did say that it’s “the most powerful gasoline V8 in its class”, and
that it uses a new cam-in-block, overhead valve architecture with cast iron
block and forged crankshaft. The company added that the V8 will offer sufficient towing and
payload capabilities.
Along with the introduction of the new V8 engine,
Ford has also launched a new 10-speed automatic transmission. It fits in the
same space as the 6-speed, weighs 1.6 kg more and features selectable
driving modes such as Normal, Tow/Haul, Eco, Slippery and Deep Sand and Snow.
The gearbox can be coupled to the 7.3-liter mill and
the third-gen 6.7-liter V8 diesel. The latter has been upgraded with new
injection system, redesigned turbo geometry and others, which results in more
power and torque.
The revised front end design optimizes cooling.
There are new LED headlights, reworked front and rear bumpers, tailgate and
taillights, as well as several trim updates inside. For the 2020MY, the Super Duty
gets the new Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which helps drivers maneuver large
trailers into tight spaces easier than before. Moreover, all new Super Duties
come with a 4G LTE modem with Wi-Fi access for up to 10 devices, and can be
specced with a wireless charging pad, in addition to other optional extras.
Making the driving part safer are the Lane-Keeping
Alert, Blind Spot Information with trailer coverage monitors, Pre-Collision
Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Pedestrian Detection. These are
standard on the XLT and above.
Ford’s new 2020 F-Series Super Duty will arrive at
North American dealers this fall, with a possible introduction at the Chicago
Auto Show.
