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Tom's Guide
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Tom's Guide
I drove the 2025 Ford F-150 for days without filling up — this hybrid truck's range is unreal
I never considered myself a pickup truck person. I've driven my dad's incredibly practical (and incredibly large) Nissan Titan a handful of times over the years, but I didn't think I would ever want to own one myself. That changed almost the instant I took the wheel of the 2025 Ford F-150 Hybrid 4x4 SuperCrew and drove it through the blustery, rain-slick streets of Seattle. But what impressed me most about this truck isn't just how it powered through rough weather; or how it's a masterclass in automotive comfort; or simply, its sheer size — it's the fact that this beast of a hybrid vehicle can travel around 700 miles before needing to be refueled. The 3.5L PowerBoost full hybrid engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offers a blend of muscle and efficiency I've never experienced on the road before. So not only can a truck like this tow, haul, and climb with the same grit as any F-150, but the fuel economy rating of 23 MPG and 30.6 gallon tank with electrical assistance means it can go the distance. During my trip in Seattle, I didn't once worry about finding a pump despite multi-hour drives to explore the surrounding areas. (Side note: I finally get the hype around the Pacific Northwest's scenery.) Better yet, the Pro Power Onboard 7.2kW system had outlets everywhere: in the bed, in the center console and throughout the cabin. It was keeping my gadgets charged up without showing any setbacks to the truck's estimated mileage. Of course, my estimated mileage varied slightly depending on how I was driving. Wanting to really milk this truck's impressive range, I opted to engage Ford BlueCruise, which gave me hands-free highway driving. Cruise control is always something fuel efficiency-minded drivers like me use often, but BlueCruise takes things a step further by making automatic changes based on traffic conditions and even suggesting lane changes. "It's clear the 2025 Ford F-150 Hybrid isn't just for truck loyalists — but it could possibly turn someone like me into one." To use hands-free driving in a Ford vehicle with BlueCruise, you must be in a designated Blue Zone covered on 97% of controlled-access highways in the U.S. and Canada. When available, the system prompts you to engage adaptive cruise control and, after calibrating, allows you to take your hands off the wheel and feel a bit of ease inside the cabin. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Speaking of the cabin, it feels more like a luxury SUV than workhorse truck. The 12-inch screen, twin-panel moonroof and polished mobile office setup made it feel like my own command center when I was at the wheel. The Bang & Olufsen 8-speaker system was also shockingly good, and if you've read my articles about in-car audio before, you know I'm hard to impress. After a few days behind the wheel, it's clear the 2025 Ford F-150 Hybrid isn't just for truck loyalists — but it could possibly turn someone like me into one. I found myself driving longer, exploring farther, and worrying less about where the next gas station might be. That kind of freedom, especially in a full-size pickup, completely shifted my perspective on what a truck can offer.
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
Ford Recalls 29,501 F-150 Lightning Trucks Over Suspension Defect Risk
The NHTSA is recalling more than 29,000 models of Ford's electric F-150 Lightning truck, but the problems reported have nothing to do with the electric powertrain. Suspension components are prone to failure, with the separation of the front control arms possibly resulting in a loss of steering control. According to the recall details provided by the NHTSA, the nut of the control arm's upper ball joint may have been insufficiently tightened, allowing the upper control arm to completely detach from the knuckle assembly, leading to a loss of steering control and, potentially, a crash. A total of 29,501 F-150 Lightnings from the 2024 and 2025 model years are included in the recall. Repair work involves replacing the nuts and tightening them to the correct torque. While this is a notable safety issue, this recall is a drop in the ocean compared to the recent recall of nearly 1.1 million vehicles announced on June 1. This recall was for rearview camera displays that can freeze or go completely blank, covering many popular Ford models such as the Mustang, Bronco F-Series, and Ranger, and Lincoln models such as the Corsair, Nautilus, and Navigator. So far, in 2025 alone, Ford has recalled vehicles for problems with transmission valve bodies that cause a loss of reverse gear, failing high-current fuses that can cut power to electric motors, missing cup plugs on 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines that may lead to oil leaks, missing dashboard airbag warning labels, and loose or missing steering shaft bolts, to name only a few. In the beginning of the year, Ford's BlueCruise drew attention to itself when several Mustang Mach-Es were involved in fatal nighttime crashes while BlueCruise was engaged. This came fresh off the back of a September 2024 recall for more than 90,000 vehicles for intake valves on 2.7L and 3.0L Nano V6 engines that may break while driving, leading to engine failure and a loss of drive power. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Car and Driver
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2025 Ford F-150 Review, Pricing, and Specs
Specs See all specs EPA MPG 19–22 Combined Seating 3–6 Seats Powertrain Gas Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive Limited Warranty 3 Years/36,000 Miles Overview The Ford F-150 full-size pickup has evolved into a versatile vehicular multi-tool that's as comfortable in work clothes as it is in designer duds. Available in numerous trim levels bracketed by the base XL trim on the bottom and the Platinum Plus on the top, it offers several powertrains including a traditional V-8, two turbocharged V-6s, and a hybrid. There are three cab sizes—regular, Super, and Crew—three bed lengths, and an off-road focused Tremor model for those eyeing rugged adventures. All models benefit from a 12.0-inch infotainment display, bold interior styling, and numerous storage cubbies. Towing and hauling rank among its core strengths, and available onboard scales help ensure your payload remains within spec. Still, the F-150 faces intense competition from the Ram 1500 and Chevrolet Silverado, so prospective buyers owe it to themselves to do a little comparison shopping. The Ram has a reputation for interior luxury and a buttery ride, while the Silverado's available Super Cruise hands-free driving feature can be used when towing, something Ford's Blue Cruise hands-free driving feature can't. The full-size pickup segment remains locked in a state of constant one-upmanship, so the balance of power—literally and figuratively—will no doubt shift back and forth as time goes on. Best do your homework before you commit to buying any of the big—and we do mean big—three pickups. As one of our favorites in its segment, the Ford F-150 has earned a spot on our Editors' Choice list for 2025. What's New for 2025? 2024 brought a host of updates to the F-150, so the 2025 F-150 carries over virtually unchanged. As a refresher, the 2024 F-150's major changes included the discontinuation of the base gas V-6 (replaced by the previously available turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6), the addition of the Blue Cruise hands-free driving feature and a head-up display to the options list, and the 12-inch infotainment screen becoming standard across the lineup. A smattering of exterior styling updates and a new Pro Access Tailgate also made the list. Pricing and Which One to Buy The F-150 is available with multiple body styles and bed lengths. While the XLT model is a step up from the basic XL work truck, we prefer the additional luxuries on the Lariat. It comes standard with automatic full-time four-wheel drive and the proven 5.0-liter V-8, but the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 is a no-cost option. Though its price may put it out of reach for some buyers, it has the best mix of features and affordability. Note to early shoppers: Ford says the 2025 Platinum Plus will have late availability with full pricing to follow. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The 2025 F-150 offers a choice of several engines starting with a 325-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 and stepping up to a 400-hp 5.0-liter V-8, a 400-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6, and a 430-hp hybrid powertrain that consists of a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 and a 47-hp electric motor. No matter which engine you choose, the F-150 comes paired with a 10-speed automatic. The EPA estimates that the hybrid model offers up to 704 miles of driving range per tank and can also power an onboard generator for keeping the power flowing at job sites or during power outages. Buyers can choose between rear- and four-wheel drive with any of the F-150's available powertrains. During our test drive, we noted a compliant ride and agreeable handling; high-spec models such as the King Ranch come with a variable-assist steering system that sharpens responses at low speeds for a more agile feeling. The Tremor model promises the most off-road capability; it offers 33-inch all-terrain tires, an upgraded suspension, a locking rear differential, and a four-wheel drive transfer case borrowed from the mighty F-150 Raptor. 0-60–MPH Times At our test track, the 2025 F-150 with the hybrid setup got to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. The 2024 F-150 Tremor with the 5.0-liter V-8 got to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds, and a previous Tremor we tested with the nonhybrid 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 was quicker, leaping to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. View Exterior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity F-150 models equipped with the optional 400-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 can tow up to 13,500 pounds. Going with the venerable 5.0-liter V-8 means the maximum towing capacity is 13,000 pounds; the hybrid model can tow up to 12,700. Payload capacity maxes out at 2455 pounds. These towing and payload capacities keep the new F-150 in the hunt with key rivals like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Ram 1500. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA estimates the F-150 with the turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 will earn up to 19 mpg city and 25 highway. The twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 is rated up to 17 mpg city and 25 highway. The hybrid version has estimates as high as 22 mpg city and 24 highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, the hybrid achieved 20 mpg and the Tremor model with the twin-turbo 3.5-liter returned 19 mpg. For more information about the F-150's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Interior appointments in the F-150 aren't much less ritzy than those in the Ram 1500's deluxe cabin, particularly in the Ford's higher-end King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited models. The cabin is dotted with plenty of storage cubbies and additional convenience features making things easier for those who use the F-150 as a mobile workspace. For example, the 10-speed automatic's shift lever can be folded down into the center console to create a large flat workspace between the seats. Similarly, the F-150 can be ordered with fold-flat front seats that can provide a place for sleeping. Passenger space is generous, with the four-door crew-cab body style being the most spacious and family-friendly of the bunch. Out back, the F-150's bed offers an optional onboard generator that provides up to 7.2-kW of power to support electricity needs at the job site or at tailgate parties. View Interior Photos Michael Simari | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Ford provides a 12.0-inch infotainment display as standard that runs an improved version of the brand's Sync 4 software. This matches the Ram 1500's optional 12.0-inch vertically oriented display, but both the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra are available with a larger 13.4-inch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard, as is a Wi-Fi hotspot; navigation, SiriusXM radio, and a Bang & Olufsen stereo system are optional. Sync 4's new software provides over-the-air updates for future software releases, traffic and weather updates via the optional navigation system, and onboard telematics for fleet customers to help track vehicle location and usage. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA) View Crash Test Results The F-150 offers a host of driver-assistance features, but few are standard. More features are available as buyers walk up through the F-150's trim levels, including a rear-facing camera for monitoring a trailer while on the go. Ford's Blue Cruise hands-free driving feature is an option too but requires a monthly or annual subscription. For more information about the F-150's crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Available lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control with a hands-free driving mode Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The F-150 limited and powertrain warranties are identical to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500's. Ford doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance, however, but rivals such as the Toyota Tundra and the Silverado do. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles No complimentary scheduled maintenance Specifications Specifications 2025 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew 4X4 Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup PRICE Base/As Tested: $53,910/$65,940 POWERTRAIN twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6, 400 hp, 500 lb-ft + AC motor, 47 hp, 221 lb-ft (combined output: 430 hp, 570 lb-ft; lithium-ion battery pack) Transmission: 10-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.8-in vented disc Michelin Primacy XC All Terrain 275/65R-18 116T M+S DT DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 145.4 in Length: 232.0 in Width: 79.9 in Height: 77.1 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 65/67 ft3 Curb Weight: 5631 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 5.0 sec 100 mph: 12.8 sec 1/4-Mile: 13.5 sec @ 102 mph Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.2 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.4 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 3.6 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 104 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 185 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.76 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 17 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 20 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 610 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 23/22/24 mpg 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor Vehicle Type: front-engine, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup PRICE Base/As Tested: $66,445/$80,245 ENGINE DOHC 32-valve 5.0-liter V-8, aluminum block and heads, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 307 in3, 5038 cm3 Power: 400 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 410 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm TRANSMISSION 10-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc Tires: General Grabber A/TX 275/70R-18 116S M+S 3PMSF DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 145.4 in Length: 231.7 in Width: 79.9 in Height: 79.3 in Curb Weight: 5650 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.6 sec @ 97 mph 100 mph: 15.5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.5 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.3 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 4.1 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 102 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 223 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.71 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 14 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 17/15/20 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ford's chief EV, digital and design officer shares its software vision
This story was originally published on Automotive Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Automotive Dive newsletter. Ford Motor Co. Chief EV, Digital and Design Officer Doug Field shared an update of the company's future strategy as the automaker navigates the auto industry's transition to software-defined vehicles, in a May 2 blog post. Ford's future-state software project, code-named 'FNV4,' will combine with its existing vehicle architecture dubbed 'FNV3' into a new version referred to as 'FNV3.X.' Field said Ford plans to build on its FNV3.X architecture and offer it across a full portfolio of vehicles. 'In today's automobiles, software is the single biggest lever in advancing a customer's ownership experience,' Field said in the blog post. Field said Ford is already far ahead of its competitors in deploying vehicle software updates. The company delivered 9.5 million updates to its fleet in the first quarter of 2025, according to its blog post, and the shift to its FNV3.X vehicle architecture will deliver software innovations even more quickly to customers. The new architecture will facilitate the rollout of new digital services to customers and improve vehicle quality. It will also support advanced vehicle security and deliver driving and infotainment enhancements to more Ford customers, according to Field. In addition to improving the customer experience, the FNV3.X architecture will allow the automaker to extend the current digital experience — currently offered in the Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus and Navigator — to other vehicles, including the Bronco, F-150, Mustang and Ranger. This approach will also enable Ford to more easily add its BlueCruise hands-free driving technology to additional models that otherwise wouldn't support it, as the required architecture will be preinstalled. 'Whether it's hands-free highway driving with BlueCruise, intelligent navigation, using your phone as a key, or our Ford Security Package to give you peace of mind, we're integrating technology that actually makes life better, and doing it across as many of our vehicles as we can,' Field said in the blog post. Unified software across the portfolio Like other automakers, Ford is migrating from traditional vehicle architectures to electrical-electronic systems powered by software that can be regularly updated over-the-air. Field said software should be available across Ford's lineup to reach as many customers as possible. Having a dedicated electrical architecture reserved for some vehicles and a legacy architecture for other models — while simultaneously trying to keep them all updated — is not a good strategy for Ford, according to the blog. Without a shared and scalable vehicle software platform, the automaker's software engineers would have to re-develop the same features over and over and adapt them for different models, according to Field. In the auto industry, more than 90% of new architectures being introduced by automakers are exclusive to their electric vehicles, according to Field. But if these architectures are not made available in other models, it can exclude a sizable portion of an automaker's customer base driving ICE and hybrid models. As a result, OEMs will face challenges in delivering the best customer experiences without a more unified vehicle platform that can be shared among models, Field said. Since coming back to Ford in 2021, Field and his team have been working to develop a new software-based vehicle architecture for the automaker. Field joined Ford from Apple in September 2021. Prior to that served as SVP of Engineering at Tesla, where he led the development of the Model 3 sedan. Now, Field is working to deliver to Ford customers the same type of software innovations developed by Apple and Tesla. Ford created a 'skunkworks' team to develop a low-cost electric vehicle platform to make the company more competitive against rivals like Tesla, CEO Jim Farley revealed during the company's earnings call in early 2024. Farley said at the time that Ford's new EVs should be profitable within 12 months of launching, and its low-cost EV platform powered by software will be key to achieving that goal. 'We will not be on the sidelines of what can be done on a next-generation, ground-up electric vehicle,' Field said in the blog post. 'Our electric vehicle 'skunkworks' project is moving full speed ahead to show what we can do when we start with a clean sheet software and electrical architecture.' Recommended Reading Ford Pro's connected vehicle fleet grew 40% since 2023 Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Edmunds
13-05-2025
- Automotive
- Edmunds
2025 Ford Expedition First Drive Review: Redesigned and Redefined
A giant center screen is also unnecessary because every Expedition now comes with a 24-inch digital display located at the base of the windshield. It replaces a traditional instrument panel and stretches from in front of the driver to the center stack — kind of like the screen in the new Lincoln Navigator or Nautilus, but cut in half. Though it doesn't span the entire dash, this screen remains a visually impressive piece. Thankfully, Ford didn't overdesign the interface by cramming all the information it projects in one area. Rather, the speed, audio track and map are given plenty of virtual space and large fonts so they are easy to find and read at a glance. Because the screen is already in the driver's line of sight, there's no need for an expensive head-up display. Everything feels very intuitive and well thought-out, including the flattened steering wheel top that allows an unobstructed view of the info panel. What else is different from the last Expedition? While the body is still boxy and slab-sided, the Expedition's front end has a new, rounded trapezoidal grille and headlight design that I like better than the outgoing model's rectangular motif. But more importantly, out back is a dual-tone hatch, with an upper black portion and a body-color lower section. This is to visually hint at the Expedition's new split tailgate; just like a fancy Range Rover, the lower bit folds down to aid loading items into and retrieving your gear from the cargo area. It also supports 500 pounds of weight, and you can even option a pair of seats for tailgating or resting before setting off on your next adventure. Other new additions include a useful 40/20/40-split third row (included with the Expedition Active's 202A package and standard on all other trims), an available power-sliding center console and configurable exterior zone lighting. Ford is also changing its subscription plans. Every trim comes with a limited trial of both BlueCruise and its connected services apps — which includes Wi-Fi access, data and video streaming, among other features — but you can purchase both outright if you plan on keeping your Expedition for the long haul.
