2006 Ford F-250/350 Super Duty: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford's heavy-duty pickup trucks are virtually unchanged for 2006. Mainstream Super Duty models include 3/4-ton F-250s and 1-ton F-350s. The line also offers F-450, 550, and 650 versions. F-250 and 350 are available in five trim levels. XL and XLT offer a 2-dr regular cab, an extended SuperCab with rear-hinged doors that don't open independently of the fronts, and a crew cab with four full doors. Top-line Lariat and King Ranch trims are available as SuperCabs and crew cabs. A special Harley-Davidson edition is a crew cab only.

Regular cabs have an 8-ft-long cargo bed; SuperCabs and crew cabs have 6.75-ft or 8-ft beds. F-350s are available with single- or dual-rear wheels. A 300-hp V8 engine is standard on all but the 350 dual-rear wheel crew cab. Standard on that model and optional on others is a 362-hp V10. Also optional on all F-250s and 350s is a 325-hp turbodiesel V8. For all engines, 6-speed manual transmission is standard, a 5-speed automatic is optional. All except the Harley-Davidson are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, but includes low-range gearing. Harley-Davidsons are 4WD only.

Lariat and King Ranch models have specific trim and are available with leather upholstery. A sunroof is optional on all crew cabs except the XL. Also optional is rear obstacle detection.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty 1/2-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider 3/4- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.