Did you know that the best-selling vehicle in America is a Ford F-Series truck? Ford sells close to 1 million each year and its wildly popular light-duty F-150 pickup accounts for a significant number of F-Series sales.
Last redesigned for 2004, the half-ton F-150 is tailored for pickup buyers who are likely to use their truck for work, commuting, and for family errands.
For 2007, Ford has upgraded the F-150 line with a long list of new options, features and equipment, including a tire pressure monitoring system, enhanced seats, new factory-installed accessories and new colors.
Ford continues to offer many different F-150 configurations, including three cab choices, three box lengths, two box styles and unique series like the powerful F-150 FX4 and top-of-the-line King Ranch version.
My F-150 tester came with the largest cab configuration, the SuperCrew. It features enough room to easily accommodate five full-sized adults in comfort.
Since my tester was a 4X4, and because it came equipped with optional 20-inch wheels, one drawback was the high step-up to get inside the cabin. Another downer was maneuvering in tight places and parking this long rig. Parking spaces and garages don't swallow this truck up too easily.
The benefit, though, was a commanding view of the road and being able to travel with five passengers in total comfort. My Lariat-trimmed tester featured a luxurious cabin adorned with leather seats, auto climate controls, adjustable pedals, power moonroof, and the new DVD-based navigation radio. You can run a business from inside this large and relaxing cabin.
I am surprised, though, that the F-150 cannot be had with side-impact airbags. That's something that F-150's competitors' offer.
The F-150 is offered with one of three engine choices: a 202-horsepower 4.2-liter V6, a 231-horsepower 4.6-liter V8, or a 300-horsepower 5.4-liter V8. The latter V8 is available with E85 flex-fuel operation.
The V6 is mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission, with a four-speed automatic available as an option. Buyers can also choose between two- and four-wheel drive on all versions of the F-150.
All four-wheel drive models provide shift-on-the-fly convenience and an electronic push-button transfer case is offered on higher trim lines. When properly equipped, the F-150 can tow up to 10,000 pounds and carry a 3,000-lb. payload.
For me, the fact that the F-150's only automatic transmission is a four-speed unit is disappointing. Most others in this segment are using five-speed automatic transmissions.
While the four-speed provides smooth operation, a five-speed unit could allow for better acceleration, smoother operation and improved fuel economy.
I found the 5.4-liter V8 in my tester to be satisfying in terms of launch acceleration and power for passing, but I did not get to put it to the test while towing a trailer or carrying a heavy load.
I don't think the V6 or smaller V8 would be desirable for those heavy-duty situations, but either one should meet the needs of a buyer with less potent needs.
Thanks to a well-built chassis, double-wishbone front suspension and predictable steering, the 2007 F-150 delivers favorable ride and handling characteristics for a full-size pickup truck.
F-150's brakes are beefy, but this heavy truck does require a good distance to bring it to a stop. Overall, I like the ride. Whether you've got work to do, or just want to play, the F-150 is a fun truck to drive.
With a starting price of around $19,000, and so many configurations available, it's easy to see why the Ford F-150 is so popular.
2007 Ford F-150 4X4 SuperCrew
Engine 5.4-liter (300 hp) V8
Transmission 4-speed automatic
Drive Type 4WD
Fuel Economy 14 city / 18 highway
Base Price $35,465
As Tested $44,000 (including $975 for destination)
Website http://www.ford.com