2008 Ford F-250/350/450 Super Duty: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford's heavy-duty pickup trucks get a new turbodiesel engine, redesigned interiors, and an exterior facelift for 2008. 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. FX4 and Lariat trims are available as SuperCabs and crew cabs. The top-line King Ranch is a crew cab only. The Harley-Davidson edition is discontinued for '08.

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 F-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 F-350s is a new 350-hp turbodiesel V8 that replaces a 325-hp turbodiesel V8. For all engines, 6-speed manual transmission is standard, a 5-speed automatic is optional. All except the FX4 are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, but includes low-range gearing. FX4s are 4WD only.

Lariat and King Ranch models have specific trim and are available with a navigation system. A sunroof is optional on all crew cabs except the XL. Also optional is rear obstacle detection. New-for-'08 options include a stowable bed extender, retractable tailgate step and grab bar, and power-folding/telescoping side mirrors.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles 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 half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.