In the world of pickup trucks, Ford's F-Series stands as an iconic and dominant force. The F-Series lineup includes a wide array of models, but today we're focusing on the heavyweight contenders: the 2021 Ford F-150 and the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty. These trucks cater to different needs and preferences, so let's dive into the details to help you make an informed choice.
2021 Ford F-150 vs 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty: Pickup Truck Comparison
Look and Feel
The 2021 Ford F-150 maintains a design continuity with its predecessor, featuring the classic Ford truck styling cues. However, it introduces updates for this model year, including a new front fascia with larger headlights and a redesigned grille for enhanced aerodynamics.
Inside the F-150, you'll find a familiar design theme with angular air vents and a high center console. The material quality varies across trim levels, with top-tier options like the King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited offering luxurious touches like leather upholstery and wood trim.
When it comes to appearance, the F-250 Super Duty takes on a larger-than-life persona. Its design exudes a rugged, heavy-duty vibe that means business. It's bigger, bolder, and more muscular than its sibling, the F-150. The Super Duty boasts a massive grille, robust bumpers, and bodywork built to withstand the rigors of demanding work environments.
Inside, the cabin can range from spartan to plush, depending on the trim level. The base XL offers practicality, while higher trims like the Super Duty Limited elevate the interior to luxurious levels with leather and upscale finishes.
Performance
The F-150 offers a wide range of powertrain options, including a naturally-aspirated 3.3-liter V6, a 5.0-liter V8, and two twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engines (2.7-liter and 3.5-liter). There's also a 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V6. The showstopper is the new PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, combining a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor and battery pack for a total of 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque.
In terms of full-size, non-heavy-duty pickups, the F-150 leads the pack in payload and towing capacity, boasting a maximum towing capacity of 14,000 pounds with the non-hybrid 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6.
As a heavy duty pickup, the F-250 lives in a different class than the F-150. Under the hood, the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offers three potent powertrains. The base 6.2-liter V8 delivers 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, while an optional 7.3-liter V8 cranks out 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. For the utmost in towing capability, there's the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine, churning out a staggering 475 horsepower and a jaw-dropping 1,050 pound-feet of torque. All engines come paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
With impressive payload and towing capacities, the F-250 Super Duty is a workhorse designed for demanding tasks. It's also available in dual-rear-wheel (DRW or "Dually") configurations for even more capability.
Form and Function
Ford has taken note of how people use their trucks as mobile offices, and it shows in the F-150's thoughtful design. Features like a folding shifter that creates a laptop-sized work surface and available Max Recline Seats for resting on the job site demonstrate this attention to detail.
The F-150's interior provides ample storage and spacious seating options. It offers various cab sizes and bed lengths to suit different needs. The available in-bed power outlets are a unique feature, making it a versatile tool for various tasks.
While the Super Duty trucks are primarily built for hardcore utility, Ford has made strides in enhancing creature comforts. The cabin offers a variety of configurations, from a basic work truck setup to plush interiors with leather and high-quality finishes. It's spacious and comfortable, especially in Crew Cab and Super Cab models.
Driving the F-250 Super Duty can be a bit challenging in tight city spaces due to its size, but it excels in rugged environments. It offers practical features like a tailgate with optional steps for easy bed access.
Technology
The 2021 F-150 steps up the tech game with Ford's new Sync 4 infotainment system. It features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and it's capable of over-the-air updates, keeping your truck current with the latest software. The base model comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, but the King Ranch test truck sampled for our full review showcased the optional 12-inch touchscreen, accompanied by a 12-inch digital instrument cluster. This system rivals the Ram 1500's Uconnect touchscreen in size.
The F-150's touchscreen menus are sensibly arranged, and the digital instrument cluster prominently displays crucial information like engine RPM and speed. Physical buttons and knobs for essential functions like temperature, audio volume, and seat heaters add to the user-friendly experience. However, it's worth noting that even with Sync 4's improved processing power, some menus might take a moment to load upon startup.
The 2021 F-150 also boasts the Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature, which simplifies trailer backing. If you prefer manual control, Trailer Reverse Guidance provides guidance to prevent mishaps. Dynamic Hitch Assist enhances visibility when aligning with a trailer.
Although it's an older technology, Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system shines in the F-250 Super Duty, earning praise for its intuitiveness and ease of use. The menus are straightforward, reducing distractions while driving. While the base XL trim starts with a non-touch display, higher trims offer a larger touchscreen. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. Furthermore, higher trim levels get upgraded audio systems for a better audio experience.
The F-250 Super Duty also offers various tech options, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, heated and ventilated seats, and adjustable upfitter switches for accessories and powered gear. For those in colder climates, there's a rapid heating unit for diesel-equipped trucks to warm the cabin quickly.
Safety
While full crash-test ratings for the 2021 F-150 weren't available at the time of its launch, the IIHS did carry over the top "good" rating for roof strength from the previous-generation model, indicating a strong safety record.
Standard safety features in the F-150, under the Ford Co-Pilot360 banner, include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beams. For added safety, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, hill-descent control, and intersection assist (which detects oncoming traffic during left turns) are available at an extra cost.
The F-150's new Active Drive Assist system is capable of handling acceleration, braking, and steering on designated divided highways. This system enhances driver convenience and safety. Worth noting, it was not available at launch but was made available as an optional feature later in the model year.
Safety features can vary on trucks, often requiring additional costs or higher trim levels. On the F-250 Super Duty, Ford offers packages and options to cater to different safety needs. Notably, a trailer tow package enhances safety when towing with special camera views and the Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature.
Additional safety options include blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision alerts. However, it's essential to remember that Super Duty trucks, being classified as commercial vehicles, don't undergo the same crash testing as light-duty trucks like the F-150. As a result, organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) haven't issued safety ratings for these trucks.
Cost Effectiveness
The Ford F-150 offers a more cost-effective proposition for a broader range of consumers than the F-250 Super Duty. Its pricing starts at a lower point, making it accessible to a wider audience. However, prices can rise quickly with various options and trim levels.
One standout in terms of cost-effectiveness is the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain, which delivers impressive gas mileage, especially for a full-size pickup. With up to 25 mpg combined, it's a notable choice for those conscious of fuel costs. However, it's worth considering whether the added expense of the hybrid system aligns with your specific needs and driving habits.
In general, the F-150 provides a more budget-friendly option without compromising on performance and capabilities. Ford's warranty coverage includes a three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Super Duty trucks like the F-250 are built for work, and their pricing reflects their robust capabilities. Adding trim levels and packages can significantly increase the cost. For instance, the Tremor Off-Road Package alone costs nearly $4,000.
While these prices are competitive within their class, potential buyers should consider whether they genuinely need the Super Duty's capabilities over the more cost-effective F-150. Additionally, the larger Super Duty trucks can incur higher fuel costs, making them less budget-friendly for daily driving.
Ford backs the Super Duty with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Verdict
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty is 6.3 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10.
Choose the 2021 Ford F-150 if:
- You need a versatile pickup with a wide range of tech features.
- Cost-effectiveness and better fuel economy are priorities.
- You want a full-size truck that balances work and everyday driving needs.
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Choose the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty if:
- You require heavy-duty towing and payload capabilities for demanding work.
- Rugged design and larger size are essential for your tasks.
- You're willing to invest in a robust workhorse and are less concerned about daily driving costs.
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In summary, while the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty excels in heavy-duty tasks and offers a robust tech suite, the 2021 Ford F-150's versatility, cost-effectiveness, and well-rounded tech features make it a compelling choice for a broader range of consumers.
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