2015 Ford F-150

Ford F-150 continues to impress.

The F-150 has been the top-selling truck, and the top-selling vehicle for that matter, for decades. It has won awards too numerous to mention here. It is perennially one of the most searched vehicles on CarSoup.com and other sites.

For 2015, the Ford F-150 continues to make news. It is the first full-size pickup to be built almost entirely of aluminum.

There are chunks of high-strength steel in the box frame and the firewall between the engine and passenger compartments, but the body and the cargo bed are crafted of what Ford describes as “military grade” aluminum.

In pickup terms, it is revolutionary. Ford says it has wrung 700 pounds out of the F-150, which has been the best-selling vehicle of any kind for 32 years and the best-selling pickup for 37 years.

Because truckers classify their trucks by Gross Vehicle Weight, that weight loss has translated directly into a weight gain: additional cargo carrying capability, to as much as 3,300 pounds. That’s an eye opener considering the F-150 is classified as a half-ton, or 1,000 pounds.

Gross Vehicle Weight is the total of the truck’s curb weight and its cargo capacity, or payload. Lose pounds out of the curb weight and you can add it to the payload and stick to a target GVW. For example, the 2015 F-150 XLT SuperCrew 4×4 model, which we drove, had a curb weight of 4,806 pounds and a maximum payload of 2,160 pounds, or more than a ton.

So, in a sense, the truck both gained and lost weight to become a stronger and more efficient vehicle.

Beyond the aluminum issue, the F-150 delivers an impressive combination of power, capability and efficiency—from advanced materials that improve durability and inhibit corrosion, to faster processors that enhance driving performance, to breakthrough cargo management and towing solutions.

A new 2.7-liter EcoBoost with standard Auto Start-Stop and a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with twin independent variable camshaft timing join the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine features a lightweight, compact design to deliver the same power as some mid-range V-8s.

The all-new Ford F-150 continues the tradition of offering the broadest selection of trim levels in the full-size pickup segment. Five primary trims are available: XL, XLT, Lariat, Platinum and King Ranch. Chrome appearance packages are available with XL, XLT, Lariat and King Ranch. Monochromatic sport appearance packages are available with XL, XLT and Lariat. The exterior is characterized by a new shape that suggests capability, with a wider stance, prominent wheel arches and chiseled grille. Comfort, utility and refinement define the truck’s interior. Ergonomically optimized seating for the front row positions enhances comfort, while extending legroom for rear passengers. Buttons and controls are optimized so they can be operated while wearing work gloves. Storage options include laptop stowage in the center console, as well as quick storage solutions for cellphones, drinks, pens and business cards. Base model estimated miles per gallon: TBD. Additionally, with 40 different styles, prices vary. Learn more here.

Compiled by Motor Matters