There are many reasons why F-150 continues to be one of the most popular trucks on the road, but the most common one is because of performance. The 2013 Ford F-150 offers a compelling engine lineup that is pretty hard to compete with. Add the fact that it handles as nicely as some sedans and you have a winner for sure. The base 3.7-liter V6 hits 60 mph in 8.2 seconds thanks to 302 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy is decent at 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The next engine is a 5.0-liter V8 that generates 360 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque while yielding 15 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. For 1 mpg better, you can also get a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 good for 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. This fierce engine sprints to 60 mph in only 6.5 seconds. Lastly, there is a 6.2-liter V8 that boasts 411 horsepower and 434 pound-feet of torque. It is a bit slower than the previous engine, but it can tow 11,300 pounds, which is significantly higher than the 6,400-pound tow capacity of the V6 engine. These fuel economy numbers are all based on two-wheel drive. Adding four-wheel drive affects the numbers slightly. Regardless which engine you go with you get quick acceleration and a compelling combination of efficiency, power, and off-road capabilities.
• MyTouch® Ford - This infotainment system gives you hands-free control over calls, text messages, and more.
• Sync® AppLink™ - You can control apps on your smartphone with this feature, including Pandora®, SiriusXM®, USA Today, and iHeartAuto®.
• Audio - You may only need the basic radio, but for the ultimate listening experience, you might want to upgrade to the sensational 12-speaker Sony system that offers 390 watts and includes all the extra you could want.
• Navigation - You can get turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic, weather, sports scores, and more all part of the Sync® with MyFord® Touch.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the SuperCrew model a -Good- rating in roof, front, and side-impact protection. When braking was tested, regular cabs were able to stop from 60 mph between 125 and 132 feet. This is respectable. However, the Raptor took a very long 143 feet because of the off-road oriented tires. Ford's Sync® System is standard. Other features include:
• Trailer sway control
• Stability control
• Tire pressure monitoring
• Four-wheel antilock brakes
• Engine immobilizer
• Remote anti-theft alarm system
• Traction control
• Electronic brakeforce distribution
• Post-collision safety system
• Dusk sensing headlamps
• Child seat anchors
The F-150 receives just a simple refresh for 2013, and the Limited trim has replaced the Harley-Davidson trim. F-150 is available as a regular cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew with three different bed lengths. An 8-foot and 6.5-foot bed is available in regular and SuperCab, while SuperCrew gives you the option of a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed.
The regular cab is a great work truck. It is not necessarily all that plush, and some of the controls are awkward to reach, but few will find themselves overly frustrated with the layout. SuperCab is convenient if you only need a part time backseat, but there is not a ton of space back there and the rear-hinged doors are a pain. SuperCrew is spacious, with ample legroom in both rows. Depending on trim, even the SuperCrew can be an appropriate work truck or it can be dressed up for an everyday vehicle.
With SuperCab and SuperCrew you have a little cargo space in the rear seat and on the floor. However, you will probably haul most cargo in the 5.5, 6.5, or 8-foot bed.