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- Highs Powerful diesel-engine option, class-leading torque and tow ratings, available tech and luxury features.
- Lows Unsettled steering at highway speeds, harsh ride over bumpy surfaces, pricey top trims.
- Verdict The aptly named Super Duty pickups will suit buyers who need to haul or tow the biggest loads.
Overview
Ford’s F-series Super Duty trio—the F-250, F-350, and F-450—are a heroic team of the biggest, strongest, and most technologically advanced heavy-duty pickups around. Like the F-150, the Super Duty trucks’ body panels are now stamped from aluminum, and they can be mixed and matched among three cab sizes and two bed lengths. The monster Power Stroke turbo-diesel pumps out 925 pound-feet of torque that can tow up to 32,500 pounds in the mammoth F-450. Together, the Super Duty trucks form Earth’s mightiest pickup-truck lineup.
What's New for 2017?
The Super Duty pickups are all new, with an aluminum body and a boxed steel frame that is lighter and stronger. The revised Power Stroke turbo-diesel has horsepower and torque figures boosted to all-time highs. New driver assist features include adaptive cruise control, collision warning with brake support, and blind-spot monitors. Towing is easier than ever with innovative options such as an in-cab trailer-tire-pressure monitor and a trailer reverse guidance system.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- XL: $33,830
- XLT: $38,035
- Lariat: $46,600
- King Ranch: $55,755
- Platinum: $63,605
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In the never-ending quest for power supremacy, the Super Duty currently wears the torque crown with 925 pound-feet from its 440-hp 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel. Ford improved the Power Stroke’s fuel-delivery system, turbocharger, and electronic controls to make a quieter and more responsive engine. Its trusty sidekick is a stout six-speed automatic transmission, and together this dynamic duo can tow up to a class-leading 32,500 pounds. The standard powerplant—excluding the F-450—is a 385-hp 6.2-liter V-8 that produces a best-in-class 430 pound-feet of torque. Super Duty models without the diesel drive through a new six-speed automatic transmission. Despite their hefty dimensions, the Super Duty pickups feel as quick as crossovers, and handling and control are elevated to levels once inconceivable for vehicles this big and strong. However, they’re hampered by unsettled steering at highway speeds, and the harshest roads will elicit shudders from all of these pickups—shocks this stiff do have a comfort ceiling.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Fashion and function live in harmony inside the Super Duty, which has a handsome dash design and a practical layout. Top-tier trims reach heights of luxury previously reserved for presidents and tyrants. Even stripped-down Super Duty interiors are ergonomically sound environments that are blessed with straightforward controls and materials fully prepared to get messy. Proceedings become more attractive beginning with the Lariat trim, which introduces leather appointments, power-adjustable equipment, and upgraded tech. Ante up for the premium King Ranch and Platinum models to unlock features no other rival has, such as massaging seats. Buyers have the choice of two bed sizes on the Super Duty: a 6.75-footer and an 8.0-foot box, both of which boast the most available volume in their class.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Super Duty’s optional Sync 3 infotainment system is user-friendly and packed with a wealth of features including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Lackadaisical response to user inputs is all that separates the system from greatness. Ford sticks its 8.0-inch touchscreen Sync 3 unit in every model from the Lariat on up; it’s optional in the XL and XLT trims. Larger cabs can be fitted with enough accessory outlets to provide sufficient juice for a Guns N’ Roses concert, including up to two 110-volt power points.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Ford F-series Super Duty’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
