2025 Ford F-150: Delayed pickup to get new flagship
The Ford F-150 lineup is set to grow in Australia, with a new flagship trim level set to launch as part of a facelift for the American pickup truck.
The updated F-150 was first revealed in September 2023, but now CarExpert understands it won't be released here until the second half of 2025.
The refreshed pickup had previously been confirmed for local release in late 2024, before timing changed to the first quarter of this year and then mid-2025.
Government documents seen by CarExpert show the facelifted F-150 has been approved for Australian roads in carryover XLT and Lariat grades, as well as fancier Platinum trim.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
All trim levels are offered in both short- and long-wheelbase (SWB and LWB) configurations.
Ford Australia wouldn't confirm whether the Platinum will join the local lineup, however, CarExpert understands it's coming here to slot in above the Lariat.
The Lariat currently has a list price of $140,945 before on-roads in LWB guise, though it's now being offered for $133,000 drive-away.
That makes it pricier than GM Specialty Vehicles' flagship Chevrolet Silverado 1500, the ZR2 ($138,000 before on-roads), but more affordable than both of Ram Trucks Australia's facelifted six-cylinder Ram 1500s, the Laramie Sport (from $141,950) and Limited (from $159,950), as well as the Toyota Tundra Limited (from $155,990).
The new F-150 Platinum will likely be priced to compete with these full-size US pickups, rather than its Japanese namesake, the new Tundra Platinum ($172,990 plus on-roads). Supplied Credit: CarExpert
While the Lariat is the flagship F-150 grade in Australia, it sits below the King Ranch and Platinum in the US, both of which carry the same base price.
In addition to a unique grille and 20-inch wheel design, the Platinum includes over the Lariat power-deployable running boards, aluminium interior trim, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, massaging front seats, power tilt/telescopic steering column adjustment with memory, and a power-sliding rear window.
Options include a head-up display, 14-speaker B&O Unleashed sound system, adaptive suspension and a panoramic sunroof.
Some of these features, such as the heated rear seats and power-sliding rear window, are already standard in the Australian-market Lariat.
Given the local Lariat already has some option boxes ticked, CarExpert understands the local Platinum will also include some features that are optional in the US. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
The Platinum can even be had with a US$11,475 (~A$18,000) Platinum Plus package, bringing chrome and satin exterior trim, 22-inch wheels, quilted leather upholstery, and a 3.5-litre hybrid V6 powertrain, though we don't expect this exact configuration to appear locally.
Images within the approval documents show the Lariat and Platinum with the updated F-150's new Pro Access Tailgate, essentially a swing gate integrated into the regular fold-down tailgate that can open all the way out to 100 degrees.
The F-150's Pro Access Tailgate avoids hitting the tow bar when opening, and it also allows owners to access items in the tub more easily. There's also an available rear step to make getting up into the tub simpler.
The Platinum has the same base price in the US as the King Ranch, but ditches the chrome and bronze trim exterior trim of that variant while also losing out on a standard panoramic sunroof, wood trim and head-up display. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
As before, the only engine that will be offered in Australia in the updated F-150 lineup is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre petrol V6 producing 298kW of power and 678Nm of torque, mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission and either a part-time or full-time four-wheel drive system.
The SWB F-150 measures 5908mm long, 2089mm wide and 1982mm tall on a 3697mm wheelbase, while the LWB F-150 has a 300mm longer wheelbase.
Externally, the updated F-150 has a restyled grille, bumpers and lighting, including more three-dimensional tail-light elements. XLT Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
Inside, all F-150s feature a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard.
The current F-150 range in Australia opens with an 8.0-inch instrument cluster screen and 8.0-inch touchscreen.
It's understood RMA Automotive will continue to handle the remanufacturing process from left- to right-hand drive, despite a rocky rollout for the official F-150 in Australia, which saw multiple recalls, delivery pauses, and compensation offered to buyers.
There haven't been any recalls issued this year, nor have there been any stop-sales. Lariat Credit: CarExpert Supplied Credit: CarExpert
MORE: Everything Ford F-150
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Advertiser
40 minutes ago
- The Advertiser
Mahindra's AI is the "fastest in the automotive world"
Mahindra claims to have the most advanced in-vehicle artificial intelligence (AI) system, with its latest vehicle architecture taking a significant leap in using machine learning to transform how cars monitor drivers and interact with their environments. The Indian automaker, which is also the fifth largest IT provider in India, has introduced a new AI system called MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), which it claims is the 'fastest automotive mind in the world' and can process 51 trillion operations per second, enabling complex real-time analysis of driver behaviour. As a comparison, a current-generation iPhone 16 Pro Max's A180 Pro chip can complete 35 trillion operations per second. Maia uses a Snapdragon 8295 chip with embedded 5G capabilities. Its driver occupant monitoring system (DOMS) can detect mobile phone usage, track passenger movements, and recognise potential safety risks – reporting them both inside the vehicle and also to external sources. "We're learning how to use AI in practical ways," said the lead engineer. For example, the system utilises five radars and multiple cameras to continuously train its auto park assistant, thereby improving parking accuracy through machine learning algorithms. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Other system capabilities include detecting driver posture, monitoring passenger behaviour, and providing advanced diagnostic information. Interestingly, AI is also being used in the development process itself. Engineers are now utilising machine learning to generate test cases and verify algorithms, particularly in complex areas such as accent recognition in voice interfaces. CarExpert visited a lab in Chennai, India, where this development was taking place. Currently, the system focuses on monitoring and data collection rather than direct driving intervention. While not yet controlling the vehicle, the technology represents a significant step towards more adaptive automotive systems. The architecture enables software partners to integrate new applications more easily, suggesting a more flexible approach to vehicle development in the future. Mahindra's approach highlights a growing trend in automotive technology: transforming vehicles from simple transportation tools into intelligent, data-driven platforms that can learn and adapt. As with all other brands, the move toward more data and intelligent overlays opens the door to numerous privacy concerns with vehicles that can not only monitor and record their drivers but also dob on them. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: Mahindra claims to have the most advanced in-vehicle artificial intelligence (AI) system, with its latest vehicle architecture taking a significant leap in using machine learning to transform how cars monitor drivers and interact with their environments. The Indian automaker, which is also the fifth largest IT provider in India, has introduced a new AI system called MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), which it claims is the 'fastest automotive mind in the world' and can process 51 trillion operations per second, enabling complex real-time analysis of driver behaviour. As a comparison, a current-generation iPhone 16 Pro Max's A180 Pro chip can complete 35 trillion operations per second. Maia uses a Snapdragon 8295 chip with embedded 5G capabilities. Its driver occupant monitoring system (DOMS) can detect mobile phone usage, track passenger movements, and recognise potential safety risks – reporting them both inside the vehicle and also to external sources. "We're learning how to use AI in practical ways," said the lead engineer. For example, the system utilises five radars and multiple cameras to continuously train its auto park assistant, thereby improving parking accuracy through machine learning algorithms. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Other system capabilities include detecting driver posture, monitoring passenger behaviour, and providing advanced diagnostic information. Interestingly, AI is also being used in the development process itself. Engineers are now utilising machine learning to generate test cases and verify algorithms, particularly in complex areas such as accent recognition in voice interfaces. CarExpert visited a lab in Chennai, India, where this development was taking place. Currently, the system focuses on monitoring and data collection rather than direct driving intervention. While not yet controlling the vehicle, the technology represents a significant step towards more adaptive automotive systems. The architecture enables software partners to integrate new applications more easily, suggesting a more flexible approach to vehicle development in the future. Mahindra's approach highlights a growing trend in automotive technology: transforming vehicles from simple transportation tools into intelligent, data-driven platforms that can learn and adapt. As with all other brands, the move toward more data and intelligent overlays opens the door to numerous privacy concerns with vehicles that can not only monitor and record their drivers but also dob on them. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: Mahindra claims to have the most advanced in-vehicle artificial intelligence (AI) system, with its latest vehicle architecture taking a significant leap in using machine learning to transform how cars monitor drivers and interact with their environments. The Indian automaker, which is also the fifth largest IT provider in India, has introduced a new AI system called MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), which it claims is the 'fastest automotive mind in the world' and can process 51 trillion operations per second, enabling complex real-time analysis of driver behaviour. As a comparison, a current-generation iPhone 16 Pro Max's A180 Pro chip can complete 35 trillion operations per second. Maia uses a Snapdragon 8295 chip with embedded 5G capabilities. Its driver occupant monitoring system (DOMS) can detect mobile phone usage, track passenger movements, and recognise potential safety risks – reporting them both inside the vehicle and also to external sources. "We're learning how to use AI in practical ways," said the lead engineer. For example, the system utilises five radars and multiple cameras to continuously train its auto park assistant, thereby improving parking accuracy through machine learning algorithms. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Other system capabilities include detecting driver posture, monitoring passenger behaviour, and providing advanced diagnostic information. Interestingly, AI is also being used in the development process itself. Engineers are now utilising machine learning to generate test cases and verify algorithms, particularly in complex areas such as accent recognition in voice interfaces. CarExpert visited a lab in Chennai, India, where this development was taking place. Currently, the system focuses on monitoring and data collection rather than direct driving intervention. While not yet controlling the vehicle, the technology represents a significant step towards more adaptive automotive systems. The architecture enables software partners to integrate new applications more easily, suggesting a more flexible approach to vehicle development in the future. Mahindra's approach highlights a growing trend in automotive technology: transforming vehicles from simple transportation tools into intelligent, data-driven platforms that can learn and adapt. As with all other brands, the move toward more data and intelligent overlays opens the door to numerous privacy concerns with vehicles that can not only monitor and record their drivers but also dob on them. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from: Mahindra claims to have the most advanced in-vehicle artificial intelligence (AI) system, with its latest vehicle architecture taking a significant leap in using machine learning to transform how cars monitor drivers and interact with their environments. The Indian automaker, which is also the fifth largest IT provider in India, has introduced a new AI system called MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), which it claims is the 'fastest automotive mind in the world' and can process 51 trillion operations per second, enabling complex real-time analysis of driver behaviour. As a comparison, a current-generation iPhone 16 Pro Max's A180 Pro chip can complete 35 trillion operations per second. Maia uses a Snapdragon 8295 chip with embedded 5G capabilities. Its driver occupant monitoring system (DOMS) can detect mobile phone usage, track passenger movements, and recognise potential safety risks – reporting them both inside the vehicle and also to external sources. "We're learning how to use AI in practical ways," said the lead engineer. For example, the system utilises five radars and multiple cameras to continuously train its auto park assistant, thereby improving parking accuracy through machine learning algorithms. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Other system capabilities include detecting driver posture, monitoring passenger behaviour, and providing advanced diagnostic information. Interestingly, AI is also being used in the development process itself. Engineers are now utilising machine learning to generate test cases and verify algorithms, particularly in complex areas such as accent recognition in voice interfaces. CarExpert visited a lab in Chennai, India, where this development was taking place. Currently, the system focuses on monitoring and data collection rather than direct driving intervention. While not yet controlling the vehicle, the technology represents a significant step towards more adaptive automotive systems. The architecture enables software partners to integrate new applications more easily, suggesting a more flexible approach to vehicle development in the future. Mahindra's approach highlights a growing trend in automotive technology: transforming vehicles from simple transportation tools into intelligent, data-driven platforms that can learn and adapt. As with all other brands, the move toward more data and intelligent overlays opens the door to numerous privacy concerns with vehicles that can not only monitor and record their drivers but also dob on them. MORE: Everything Mahindra Content originally sourced from:
7NEWS
an hour ago
- 7NEWS
Price dip: Why now could be the time to buy a Tassie country gem
Property prices are rising across nearly every Australian region, with one exception: regional Tasmania. But rather than a sign of weakness, this dip could present a buying opportunity for those looking to get ahead of the next wave of growth. According to recent ANZ Research, house prices in regional Tasmania dropped by 1.1 per cent in May, making it the only region nationwide to post a monthly decline. While to some, that could seem concerning at first glance, economists say the drop is likely just a short-term fluctuation - and one that could open the door for savvy buyers. ANZ economist Madeline Dunk said the fall may well prove to be a one-off, pointing out that over the past year, prices in the region are still up 2.3 per cent, and over the most recent three-month average, values have continued to rise by 0.2 per cent. "It's possible the monthly decline was just a blip," Ms Dunk said, adding that Tasmania had already seen exceptional growth during the pandemic. "Tasmania has seen softer housing price growth compared to some other parts of the country in the last year - likely a bit of COVID catch-up after the strong growth seen in the pandemic period." Smaller market CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless said the slight drop in May could be reflective of the region's smaller market size. "The monthly change across a relatively small housing market like regional Tasmania can show some volatility," Mr Lawless said. He noted that the three-month trend has actually been stronger than that seen in Hobart and that these shorter-term declines are not uncommon in smaller markets. "It's worth keeping an eye on the trend, but I would put the month-on-month decline down to some noise across a small sample." In the broader context, Australia's housing market is regaining strength after a soft patch at the end of 2024. Price growth picked up in May, with every capital city now posting gains for the year to date. National auction clearance rates cracked 70 per cent in June, and both consumer sentiment and investor lending are rising. Ms Dunk said the recent rate cuts from the Reserve Bank had clearly helped restore confidence in the market. "Rate cuts appear to have boosted sentiment in the market," she said. "So far, we've seen 50 basis points of easing, and ANZ Research expects another 50 basis points of cuts in total - one in August and another in early 2026." What next? Mr Lawless agrees that the market is entering a new growth phase, pointing out that housing values are rising broadly across the country, and at a more consistent rate than seen in previous years due to a few handbrakes. "We expect housing values to continue recording a broad-based rise through the rest of 2025 and into 2026," he said. "Factors supporting further growth include lower interest rates and higher sentiment along with an ongoing undersupply of housing. "However there are a few factors that are likely to keep a lid on value growth including affordability constraints, high household debt levels, less population growth and the fact that the rate-cutting cycle is likely to be a gradual and cautious one." So, what does this mean for regional Tasmania? The softening in May could be the signal of buyer-friendly conditions before the next upswing. For those willing to act before the market regains momentum, it could be an ideal time to secure a country retreat, lifestyle property or long-term investment. In a market where most areas are set to continue their rise, the regional Tassie pause might be the edge buyers have been waiting for. Seven Tassie gems currently on the market A price drop and four separate income streams (a 7.43 per cent yield) are on offer with this charming 1938 Tudor Revival residence. A rare opportunity to snap up a former schoolhouse (circa 1897) with versatile living arrangements, so it's ideal for multi-generational living or Airbnb. Elevated views of Lake Trevallyn are the order of business at this single-level beauty. Historic charm, modern updates and a walk to the beach? Say no more. Live out your cosy cabin dreams (complete with architectural extension). Motivated vendors. Panoramic views over the Huon River and a gorgeous green stove on almost 47 acres, where neighbours are mostly of the four-legged variety. A truly unique opportunity, you could nab three beautiful newly-built cabins (with locally sourced Tasmanian Oak cladding) in the northeast region renowned for mountain biking trails.
Sky News AU
an hour ago
- Sky News AU
Chris Bowen's energy revolution pushing Australia's heavy industry to the brink with Tomago Aluminium on the verge of collapse
Australia's largest aluminium smelter is on the brink of collapse under the weight of soaring power prices as Energy Minister Chris Bowen continues with his renewables revolution. A report in the Australian Financial Review emerged on Friday that said Rio Tinto-owned Tomago, Australia biggest aluminium producer, is seeking billions of dollars in public funds to avert collapse as energy costs plague local industry. The producer is located north of Newcastle, uses about 10 per cent of NSW's power supply and makes about 37 per cent of Australia's primary aluminium. The collapse of the massive company could lead to more than 1,000 people losing their jobs, while 5,000 indirect workers could suffer. Tomago executives have reportedly asked the NSW and federal governments for assistance amid crippling power prices and as cost-effective and consistent renewables remain largely unavailable. The damning report sparked concern from the Centre for Independent Studies' senior policy analyst Zoe Hilton who said the government's energy policy was crippling the aluminium sector. 'With power prices in Australia rising higher and higher, it simply doesn't make financial sense to run a smelter here,' Ms Hilton told 'Tomago's current predicament is a direct result of state and federal government plans to shift our grid to mostly intermittent energy sources.' Mr Bowen and Labor have vowed to make the nation a 'renewable energy superpower' with an energy mix of 82 per cent renewables by 2030 and green energy driving local manufacturing. The Albanese government is looking to boost this through production tax credits for leading Australian aluminium smelters, including Tomago, and give $2 billion back to help with the energy transition. A federal government source told the AFR it was involved in discussions with Tomago over the details of the tax credit design as it looks to alleviate the impacts of soaring power costs. Rio Tinto's chief executive Jakob Stausholm flagged concerns about the producer's electricity costs earlier this year where he warned power price contracts beyond 2028 would render Tomago unviable. Ms Hilton said this should come as a brutal warning for the government as it strives to dramatically alter the nation's energy mix. 'The federal government has refused to acknowledge that its plan to make our grid run off 82 per cent renewable energy by 2030 is making energy unaffordable for industrial users, not to mention residential and small business consumers,' Ms Hilton said. 'We are following in the footsteps of Germany, which gets almost half of its power from wind and solar. 'Around 40 per cent of German industrial companies are now considering partly or fully relocating operations abroad due to a lack of affordable and reliable energy. Australia has only just reached over 30 per cent wind and solar. 'We don't have European neighbours with nuclear plants from which to import reliable power as Germany does, so our industries will feel the pain of expensive, unreliable power much earlier in the renewables buildout.' Shadow energy minister Dan Tehan said Labor's ambitious renewables plan could result in job losses at Tomago. 'Spare a thought for the workers at Tomago worried about losing their job because high energy prices, as a result of Labor's obsession with renewable energy, is threatening their livelihood,' Mr Tehan told 'These workers will be worried today about paying the bills and putting food on the table if Tomago is closed because of Labor's higher energy costs. 'Every worker and every business owner in Australia will be looking at Tomago and worrying if their business can survive the exorbitant energy costs under Labor's renewables agenda.' Tomago's turmoil comes as the government looks to shift the aluminium industry to renewable energy while maintaining the operations of the major smelters. The producer was historically powered by cheap coal-fired generators but the shift away from fossil fuels has presented challenges regarding both energy security and power prices. Ms Hilton said Australia needs to ditch the renewables plan if the nation wants to keep heavy industry from moving overseas. 'If we want to minimise electricity costs, new coal plants will be the cheapest way to supply our grid,' Ms Hilton said. 'If industry remains committed to reducing emissions, nuclear plants are the only option to provide the necessary 24/7 power at an affordable price, so the bans will need to be lifted.' Tomago CEO Jerome Dozol in November 2024 said the company urgently needed public help to assist with the smelter's energy bills. 'The price of electricity on offer is too expensive for us to keep operating without government intervention,' Mr Dozol said.
