2003 Ford F-150: Road Test
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2003 Ford F-150 ▼
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- MSRP: $19,125 -$36,975
- Invoice: $16,893 -$32,243
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Our road test for the 2003 Ford F-150 includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Ford F-150 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Ford F-150, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Ford F-150 help you decide if a 2003 Ford F-150 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 5 | 8 | 4.7 |
Noisy base V6 provides leisurely acceleration. The 4.6 V8 is sufficient for most light-duty work, but the 5.4 is satisfyingly stronger. Supercharged models are true muscle trucks, especially the rocketlike Lightning.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.2 |
A 4.6-liter SuperCab 4x4 averaged 12.5 mpg over 10,000 mi. in an extended-use test. Test 2WD SuperCrew averaged 15.2 mpg, while a 4WD version returned just 11.9 with more city driving; both had the 5.4 V8. Test Harley-Davidson averaged 12.9 mpg, test Lightning just 10.4 mpg. All models tested had automatic transmission. Ford recommends premium fuel for the supercharged models.
RIDE QUALITY
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 3.7 |
Base-suspension F-150s have a stable, relatively comfortable ride. Typical truck bouncing and pitching is evident, but not excessive. Those with off-road, heavy-duty, or sport suspensions ride quite stiffly.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 3.3 |
Body lean and mediocre tire grip are the rule in changes of direction. These traits, like the light, numb steering feel, are shared with other full-size pickups. Notable exceptions are the Harley-Davidson Edition and the Lightning, where wide tires and sport suspension provide surprisingly capable road manners. Brakes on all have good pedal feel and strong stopping power.
QUIETNESS
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
Helped by this year's added sound insulation, wind and road noise are moderate, especially by pickup standards. And Ford's overhead-cam V8s are among the quieter engines in any truck.
CONTROLS
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Radio and climate controls a bit of a reach for the driver. Other controls handy. Large, clear gauges. Materials range from stark to luxurious. Workmanship solid on test F-150s, with impressive fit and finish inside and out.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Ample passenger room, but entry/exit in the tall-riding 4WD models is more of a chore than in Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 3 | 7 | 0 | 4.4 |
Ford's SuperCab extended cab takes a back seat to GM rivals in room and comfort, with tight leg room and an uncomfortably upright seatback. SuperCrews are more competitive, with enough head room and shoulder width to accommodate three adults, though knee room isn't generous for tall riders, and the seat needs more thigh support. Step-in high, but crew-cab door openings large.
CARGO ROOM
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 7 | 1 | 4.8 |
Regular cabs don't have as much room behind the seat as GM and Dodge competitors, but folding the rear seat in extended and crew cabs creates a large, handy compartment with a tough metal floor.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 9 | 10 | 4 | 6.9 |
A keen blend of good manners, true-truck muscle, and competitive pricing earns F-150 Best Buy status. Silverado and Sierra match up well in performance and comfort, and boast class-leading 4WD convenience. The Dodge Ram and Toyota Tundra also have their virtues. Shop for the best deal on the combination of attributes that suits you.
Total Score
| XL reg. cab 2WD, V6 | XLT SuperCab 4WD, 4.6 V8 | Lariat SuperCrew 4WD, 5.4 V8 | SVT Lightning | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | 50 | 59 | 43 | 49.8 |
Total Score: 48
Scores for all Large Pickup Trucks
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