The Ford F-150 has been America’s best-selling truck for over 40 years and the 2023 model aims to continue that reign. The newest iteration of this iconic workhorse features updated powertrain options, advanced technology, and enhanced capability to cater to a wide range of truck buyers. Under the hood, the F-150 impresses with a range of engine choices including a powerful hybrid that churns out 570 lb-ft of torque. On the exterior, an aggressive, aerodynamic design turns heads while the interior offers a comfortable, tech-filled cabin.
And for truck owners who like to play as hard as they work, the off-road Raptor models provide extreme performance to tackle the toughest terrain. With its smart features, brawny engine options, and range of configurations to suit different needs, the 2023 Ford F-150 is ready to stay at the top of the truck market. This article will explore what’s new and notable about the latest version of Ford’s perennial best-seller.
A Range of Capable, Advanced Powertrains
The 2023 Ford F-150 offers several powertrain options to suit different needs, with impressive horsepower, torque, and towing capacity. Here are some details on the truck’s available motors:
The 2023 Ford F-150 offers several powertrain options to suit different needs, with impressive horsepower, torque, and towing capacity.
The star of the lineup is the 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid V6, which produces an incredible 430 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque. This twin-turbocharged motor combines a gas engine with an electric motor integrated into the transmission. Power and efficiency meet with this engine, providing max towing of 12,700 pounds.
For traditional gasoline power, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 puts out 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.0L V8 churns out 400 hp and 410 lb-ft. Both provide strong acceleration and solid towing capacity over 10,000 pounds.
At the high end, the Raptor performance models come equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost that’s been tuned to produce 450+ hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. This allows the Raptor to dominate off-road terrain.
No matter which engine you choose in the 2023 F-150 lineup, you’ll get an advanced powertrain designed for power and efficiency. From the max towing of the PowerBoost hybrid to the extreme off-road performance of the Raptor, F-150 engines offer impressive capability.
Portable Powerhouse: The F-150’s Electrical Outlets and Pro Power Onboard
Here are some key details about the electrical outlets and Pro Power Onboard system on the 2023 Ford F-150:
- The F-150 offers the Pro Power Onboard system, which provides exportable electricity to power tools, accessories, and electronics on the go.
- On the higher trims, Pro Power Onboard can deliver up to 7.2 kilowatts of power, making the F-150 a mobile generator.
- There are up to six 120V/20A outlets available with the 7.2 kW system, 4 in the cab and 2 in the bed.
- With the standard 2.0 kW system, there are two outlets in the bed to plug in worksite tools or lighting.
- The hybrid F-150s come standard with the more powerful 2.4 kW version, which has four outlets.
- You can monitor power output and usage on the SYNC 4 screen or FordPass app.
- The outlets are extremely useful for contractors, campers, tailgaters, and anyone needing portable power.
- With the Pro Power Onboard system, the F-150 can handle a wide range of electrical needs on the go.
Payloads:
Here are some key details about payload capacity on the 2023 Ford F-150 pickup:
- Payload refers to how much weight the truck can carry in both the cab and bed when properly equipped.
- The F-150 has impressive maximum payload capacities ranging from 1,685 lbs to 3,325 lbs depending on configuration.
- Higher payload capacities allow you to haul and transport more gear, tools, materials, etc.
- To achieve max payload, the F-150 needs to be properly equipped with considerations like cab size, bed length, drive type (2WD vs 4WD), and engine.
- For example, a regular cab F-150 with the 8′ bed, 2WD, and 3.5L V6 can haul up to 3,325 lbs.
- Payload is important for customers using their truck for work, like in construction, farming, and contracting fields.
- The F-150 can haul plenty of weight when set up correctly. Payload labels on the truck outline the carry capacities based on configuration.
Styling:
The 2023 Ford F-150 features muscular new exterior styling with a bold grille, sleek headlights, and sharply creased body panels. Aerodynamic enhancements help improve efficiency while aluminum body parts reduce weight. The Raptor models flaunt an especially aggressive off-road look. Inside, the cabin offers a modern, tech-focused environment with the Sync 4 infotainment system displayed on a large 12-inch touchscreen on higher trims. Customers can also opt for a 12-inch digital gauge cluster to provide essential information front and center. Over-the-air software updates keep the technology current. Front row passengers can enjoy the available Max Recline Seats that fold nearly flat for resting between jobs.
When it comes to capability, the 2023 F-150 stands out with advanced 4WD systems utilizing electronic locking rear differentials and up to 11.6 inches of ground clearance on the Raptor models. Rigorous testing ensures the trucks are ready for rugged use. Multiple drive modes allow customers to tailor the performance for different driving conditions and terrain. With the enhancements made both inside and out for 2023, the Ford F-150 continues to be a versatile, technologically-advanced pickup truck with the power to get the job done.
New Features:
For 2023, Ford has updated the F-150 with some nice features now coming standard across the lineup. One change is that all models now come with Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0, which includes key driver assist technologies. These include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and an alert if the truck is about to back up into something. Having these safety features standard makes the F-150 an even more compelling option.
Another upgrade for 2023 is that the popular 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility now comes on all F-150 trim levels. Previously it was only standard on the mid XLT and above. Having smartphone integration standard makes it easier for drivers to access apps, music, and navigation. A wireless charging pad is also now standard to help keep devices powered up.
In terms of exterior design, the 2023 F-150 sports some revised styling cues like new LED headlamps and taillights. The trucks look sleeker and more modern compared to last year. You’ll also now find the tailgate designed with an integrated bottle opener, perfect for cracking open a cold one at a tailgate party.
Under the hood, the engines carry over from 2022 but are tuned for additional horsepower and torque. For example, the 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid V6 now produces 430 hp, up 10 from last year. Fuel economy has also been improved by 1 mpg across several powertrains.
The interior of the 2023 F-150 hasn’t changed dramatically, but new color and material options provide more customization. Convenience has also improved thanks to standard proximity entry on XLT and higher trims. Overall, the 2023 F-150 brings meaningful upgrades to design, tech, capability and efficiency.
Pricing:
Here are some key details about pricing for the 2023 Ford F-150 lineup:
- The F-150 has a starting MSRP of $33,200 for the base XL trim with rear-wheel drive and the 3.3L V6 engine.
- The best-selling XLT trim begins at $38,955 with the same powertrain configuration.
- Stepping up to the Lariat, one of the most popular trims, starts at $45,995.
- The range-topping Limited model has an MSRP of $76,330 before any options are added.
- Available powertrains like the PowerBoost hybrid ($2,595 premium) and the Raptor’s high-output EcoBoost V6 ($4,950 premium) increase cost.
- 4WD is a $3,975 upgrade over rear-wheel drive configurations.
- Popular options like the PowerBoost hybrid add around $3,000 typically. The full luxury interior pushes the Limited close to $80,000.
- Incentives and dealer discounts can drop real-world prices 1-2% below MSRP typically. There are lease, financing, and cash back offers as well.
Pricing ranges from the low $30Ks for basic work trucks to the high $70Ks for luxury models. There are lots of configuration options to custom tailor an F-150.
IMPORTANT: These prices are from what I was able to gather. They are subject to change and always check with your dealer to verify.
Conclusion:
The 2023 F-150 raises the bar with new standard features like advanced driver aids, an 8-inch touchscreen, and wireless charging. Subtle styling changes modernize the exterior, while added horsepower boosts performance. It keeps everything that made the 2022 F-150 a hit but adds value and improvements.