By Asian Journal Auto Editor

2018 FORD F-150 DIESELFor 2018, Ford has now added a long awaited diesel engine to make a fifth engine choice for its full-sized pickup. Joining the 3.3 litre V6, the 2.7 and 3.5 litre EcoBoost V6 engines, and the 5.0L V8, is an all-new Powerstroke diesel engine as found in the Range Rover HSE diesel. Made in England, Ford’s new diesel claims 250 horsepower, but more importantly, and impressive; 440 lb.-ft. of peak torque from as low as 1,750 rpm – more torque than Fords 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.3L V6 and 5.0L V8 gasoline engines. The result is the F-150’s diesel-class-leading hauling power, with a payload of up to 2,020 pounds and a towing capacity of up to 11,400 pounds for fleet vehicles. The new engine is combined with a 10-speed automatic gearbox for a claimed fuel consumption of 9.5 L/100 kilometres combined, or as low as 8.0 on the highway, on two-wheel-drive models. No other full-size pickup claims numbers that low according to Ford.

The F-150 diesel is also equipped with an automatic start/stop function to further reduce emissions and fuel consumption, the 3.0 litre V6 turbo diesel is available in Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum trims with a SuperCrew cab and either a 5.5 or 6.5 foot bed, or with a SuperCab and 6.5-foot bed. The Ford competes with the Ram 1500 Eco diesel engine pickup that makes    240 horsepower, along with 420 lb-ft of torque. However, Fords Powerstroke delivers 250 horses and 440 lb-ft at 1,750 rpm. Ford’s diesel is rated at 10.8 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway, while Ram is rated at 13.9 L/100 km City and 9.6 on the highway.

Be warned the diesel engine option is not cheap! We tested a top spec 2018 Platinum SuperCrew model base priced at $71,579 that came fabulously equipped with the following: $12,750 worth of options comprising: 3.0L diesel engine ($5,650) voice activated navigation, sync connect, heated steering wheel. Extra options, included: Power running boards, Twin panel moon roof. Adaptive cruise control with stop and go, FX4 off road package bed liner. Also added was the Technology package with active park assist, 360 degree camera with split display. Final price came to $84,329 plus destination.

The interior of the F-150 is simply wonderful, super roomy front and rear with limo like legroom in the back and folding flip up seat that allow for huge flat floor load area. Creature comforts are top level with sumptuous, luxurious leather seats that are cooled and heated. There is every power convenience imaginable. Visibility and the feeling of security is superb. A powerful audio system and Fords efficient and easy to sue SYNC 3 infotainment voice-recognition communications system makes connectivity simple.

2018-Ford-F-150-interiorOn the road, the diesel engined Ford F-150 is exceptionally quiet, and it hard to believe you are in diesel. The 10-speed automatic shifts smoothly, and Ford has done a really bang up job with the 3.0L V6 Powerstroke diesel in terms of fuel efficiency, operation, and overall performance. Most remarkable, though, is the diesel’s refinement. There’s just a hint of diesel chatter under full load, the engine includes a seamlessly smooth automatic stop-start function, which shuts it off at idle for improved fuel efficiency and emissions. Driving modes include Normal, Eco, Rain and Snow. The F-150 has tight responsive steering and is an easy truck to drive and park. Safety features lane-keep assist, blind-spot assist and forward and rear-facing cameras. The very cool trailer-backup assist makes connecting a trailer into a tight spot very easy.

Do note however, the Diesel engine comes at a premium price from $5,650 to $8,200 extra above the standard gasoline engine depending on selected trim level. It makes sense if you do a lot of mileage, tow or haul on a regular basis and plan on keeping the truck for a long time, to really take advantage of the money saved on fuel.  Highly recommended for work and play. It’s an F-150 a no brainer if you need a powerful, fuel-efficient truck.

2018 Ford F-150 Platinum 3.0 V6 Diesel Base MRSP $71,759. Final price with Diesel engine and options $86,129 plus destination and delivery $86,129. More info at Ford.ca