2002 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

A new standard transmission and detail changes mark Ford's 2002 Super Duty line. Ford's biggest pickups differ from light-duty F-150s in having brawnier styling; larger, heavier chassis; beefier powerteams; and higher payload/tow ratings. Mainstream 3/4-ton F-250s and 1-ton F-350s encompass rear- or 4-wheel drive, three trim levels, and 2-dr regular cab, extended SuperCab with rear half-doors, and full 4-dr Crew Cab. Cargo beds are 6.75 or 8 feet. All models come standard with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and trailering package. Engine offerings are a 5.4-liter V8, a 6.8-liter V10, and a 7.3-liter turbodiesel V8. For 2002, gas-engine models swap a 5-speed manual transmission for the turbodiesel's 6-speed. A 4-speed automatic is optional with all engines. A power takeoff (PTO) is standard on the 6-speed, optional on the automatic. Also for '02, XLT and Lariat get jewel-effect headlamps, and automatic-transmission models get a standard transmission temperature gauge. This line also offers F-450/550/650 chassis with numerous special options. The F-650 Super CrewZer, a high-built semi-custom 4-dr designed for heavy trailering, has a unique 300-hp turbodiesel V8, 6-speed automatic transmission, and luxury interior.

COMPETITION

With the advent of crossover vehicles this segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD.

The big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models feature for feature but can't match their ride comfort or civility. We also like the expensive Toyota Tundra. What it lacks in brute strength, it more than makes up for with refined road manners.