The F-Series has been America’s best-selling vehicle for 41 consecutive years and Ford wants to keep that record going, so they’re working on a refresh for the popular F-150.
Spy photographers managed to snag two different prototypes and the lightly camouflaged truck sports an evolutionary design that doesn’t reveal much at first glance. However, the prototype has a lightly modified grille and a revised lower bumper with vertical supports. That being said, the front end is missing some trim so the final appearance may change.
The minor updates continue out back as we can see new taillights peeking out from beneath the camouflage. They feature flowing lines and a three-dimensional appearance, which is clearly inspired by the units found on the F-150 Lightning.
Also: Ford Hikes F-150 Lightning Price Yet Again, EV Now Starts At $56,000
Additional details are hard to make out, but there’s been speculation that Ford will finally introduce a trick tailgate of their own. While that remains to be seen, the competition has been having a field day with multi-function tailgates and Ford patented one of their own last year.
Spy photographers managed to get a glimpse inside and it shows the truck will feature some significant changes. While the current model comes equipped with 8- and 12-inch infotainment systems featuring a landscape orientation, we can see what appears to be an all-new display with a portrait setup. It’s also worth noting the display isn’t yanked out of the F-150 Lightning as it’s fully integrated into the dashboard and appears to eschew a circular knob.
While little is known about the system at this point, Google recently used CES to remind us that Ford and Lincoln will introduce Android-based infotainment systems with Google integration later this year. The partnership was originally announced in 2021, when the automaker revealed “millions of future Ford and Lincoln vehicles at all price points will be powered by Android, with Google apps and services built-in” starting in 2023. This promises to improve the ownership experience as users will find Google Assistant, Google Maps, and the Google Play store.
Engine options remain unconfirmed, but Ford currently offers an assortment of choices including a 3.3-liter V6, 2.7- and 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6s, and a 5.0-liter V8 with 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS) and 410 lb-ft (555 Nm) of torque. The latter is certainly worth mentioning as Ford recently introduced the fourth-generation 5.0-liter Coyote V8 in the 2024 Mustang GT.
It features a number of changes including structural improvements, an upgraded oil pan, a dual throttle body induction system, and a dual intake. This enables the mill to produce 480 hp (358 kW / 487 PS) and 415 lb-ft (562 Nm) of torque in the standard model, but the Dark Horse boosts that figure to 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS) and 418 lb-ft (566 Nm) thanks to forged connecting rods, a uniquely balanced crankshaft, and strengthened camshafts.
While it remains unclear if the F-150 will get the latest Coyote V8, we should learn more about the truck later this year.
