Overview
Ford offers the 2021 F-150 with no fewer than six powertrains—including a hybrid for the first time—plus three cab configurations and both long and short bed lengths. Need something to impress the in-laws? Upscale models offer more than just a touch of luxury. Towing something heavy? We expect some of these half-ton trucks will boast a maximum towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds. An off-road focused Tremor model is available as well and don’t forget the bad-boy F-150 Raptor (reviewed separately), Ford’s performance powerhouse.
What’s New for 2021?
Though its styling may suggest otherwise, Ford’s best-selling vehicle is new from grille to tailgate for 2021. Rumor has it that an electric F-150 is also on the way, but we expect that one won’t debut for another year or two.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
XL$30,635XLT$36,745Lariat$46,390King Ranch$58,025Platinum$60,805Limited$72,5200$25k$50k$75k$100k$125k
The F-150 is available with multiple body styles and bed lengths. While the XLT model is a step up from the basic XL work truck, we prefer the additional luxuries on the Lariat. It costs over $10,000 more than the XLT, which may put it out of reach for some buyers, but it has the best mix of features and affordability.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Like the 2020 model, the 2021 F-150 is available with several engines—a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6; a 400-hp 5.0-liter V-8; a 325-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6; a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6; and a 250-hp 3.0-liter diesel V-6. No matter which engine you choose, the F-150 comes paired with a 10-speed automatic. For the first time ever, the F-150 is also offered with a hybrid powertrain. Ford claims that the new 400-hp hybrid powertrain—which consists of a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6, a 35 kW electric motor, and a 10-speed automatic transmission—will offer up to 700 miles of driving range per tank and can also power an onboard generator for keeping the power flowing at job sites or during power outages. Buyers will be able to choose between rear- and four-wheel drive with any of the F-150’s available powertrains. At our test track, a four-wheel drive Lariat with the hybrid powertrain galloped to 60 mph in a brisk 5.4 seconds. During our test drive, we noted a compliant ride and agreeable handling; high-spec models such as the King Range come with a variable-assist steering system that sharpens responses at low speeds for a more agile feeling. The rumored all-electric F-150 will likely be a joint venture with EV upstart Rivian, but Ford has yet to announce much about that.
