A prototype of the next-generation 2021 Ford F-150
has been spied during a recent round of testing in the United States. As testing of the all-new F-150
only recently commenced, limited details about the new model are known.
However, it is immediately apparent that this prototype has a number of visual
elements which distinguish it from the outgoing model. This likely includes a
newly-designed front grille, different headlights, and bespoke taillights.
The spy photographers suggest that the Crew Cab
prototype in question appeared to have slightly more space in the rear than the
current model. Interestingly, it has previously been suggested that the 2021 F-150,
while marketed as an all-new model, may in fact be more of a heavy refresh of
the current model. Ford has allegedly decided to do this as a way to make the
most of the massive investment it made in the existing F-150 due to its
aluminum-intensive construction.
Ford will certainly look to update the interior of
its most popular pickup truck and likely install it with a new infotainment
screen, a number of different materials, and different gauges. New seats are
also likely. From a mechanical standpoint, it is believed that the 5.0-liter V8
engine offered for the existing F-150 will be dropped in favor of a smaller and
more efficient 4.8-liter unit. A plug-in hybrid variant is also said to be on
the cards.
If the new F-150 does launch as a 2021 model as many
expect, it may actually arrive before the long-awaited Bronco. While we’d love to
see the Bronco first, the presence of these two models in Ford’s line-up will
almost certainly make up for the automaker’s lack of traditional cars moving
forward.
