The F-Series has been America’s best-selling vehicle for 41 consecutive years and Ford wants to keep that record going, so they’re working on a refresh for the popular F-150. Spy photographers managed to snag two different prototypes and the lightly camouflaged truck sports an evolutionary design that doesn’t reveal much at first glance. However, the prototype has a lightly modified grille and a revised lower bumper with vertical supports. That being said, the front end is missing some trim so the final appearance may change.
The minor updates continue out back as we
can see new taillights peeking out from beneath the camouflage. They feature flowing lines and a three-dimensional
appearance, which is clearly inspired by the units found on the F-150
Lightning. Additional details are hard to make out, but there’s been
speculation that Ford will finally introduce a trick tailgate of their
own. While that remains to be seen, the
competition has been having a field day with multi-function tailgates and Ford
patented one of their own last year.
Spy photographers managed to get a glimpse
inside and it shows the truck will feature some significant changes. While the current model comes equipped with
8- and 12-inch infotainment systems featuring a landscape orientation, we can
see what appears to be an all-new display with a portrait setup. It’s also worth noting the display isn’t
yanked out of the F-150 Lightning as it’s fully integrated into the dashboard
and appears to eschew a circular knob.
While little is known about the system at
this point, Google recently used CES to remind us that Ford and Lincoln will
introduce Android-based infotainment systems with Google integration later this
year. The partnership was originally announced in 2021, when the automaker
revealed “millions of future Ford and Lincoln vehicles at all price points will
be powered by Android, with Google apps and services built-in” starting in
2023. This promises to improve the ownership
experience as users will find Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google
Play store.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but
Ford currently offers an assortment of choices including a 3.3-liter V6, 2.7-
and 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6s, and a 5.0-liter V8 with 400 hp and 555 Nm of torque. The
latter is certainly worth mentioning as Ford recently introduced the
fourth-generation 5.0-liter Coyote V8 in the 2024 Mustang GT. It features a
number of changes including structural improvements, an upgraded oil pan, a
dual throttle body induction system, and a dual intake. This enables the mill to produce 480 hp and 562 Nm of torque in the standard model, but the
Dark Horse boosts that figure to 500 hp and 566
Nm thanks to forged connecting rods, a uniquely balanced crankshaft, and
strengthened camshafts.