The 2016 Ford F-150 was a standout in the full-size pickup truck market, continuing to showcase Ford’s commitment to innovation and versatility. Building on the 2015 redesign, which revolutionized the truck industry with its groundbreaking use of aluminum alloy, the 2016 model improved in key areas such as technology, safety, and performance. It remained a favorite among drivers seeking a reliable, capable, and customizable truck that could handle work, play, and everything in between.
Design and Construction
The 2016 Ford F-150 retained the bold and aggressive styling that defined the previous year’s redesign. Its high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body set it apart from competitors, reducing the truck's weight by approximately 700 pounds compared to earlier steel-bodied models. This reduction contributed to improved fuel efficiency, better handling, and enhanced towing capabilities. The aluminum alloy also improved durability, as it was less prone to rust and corrosion, ensuring a longer lifespan for the vehicle.
The truck's exterior design emphasized both form and function. The wide grille featured horizontal bars or a mesh pattern depending on the trim level, while the headlights were sharply angled to convey a modern and rugged aesthetic. The squared-off fender arches and high beltline added to its commanding presence on the road. Functional design elements included available LED headlights and taillights for improved visibility, integrated cargo ramps for loading ATVs or motorcycles, and tailgate steps for easier bed access.
Ford offered three cab styles for the 2016 F-150: Regular Cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew. The Regular Cab was ideal for work-oriented buyers, offering two doors and seating for up to three passengers. The SuperCab featured rear-hinged doors and additional seating, while the SuperCrew provided full-size rear doors and a spacious rear cabin, making it a practical choice for families or work crews.
Bed lengths ranged from 5.5 feet to 8 feet, depending on the cab configuration, ensuring that the F-150 could accommodate various cargo needs. Customers could further enhance the bed’s utility with optional features like LED box lighting, a BoxLink system with cleats for securing loads, and spray-in or drop-in bed liners.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2016 F-150 offered a versatile lineup of four engines, ensuring buyers could find the right balance of power, efficiency, and capability for their needs.
| 3.5L V6 Engine | 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine | 5.0L V8 Engine | 3.5L EcoBoost V6 Engine |
| The standard engine was a 3.5-liter V6, producing 282 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. While it was the least powerful engine in the lineup, it provided solid performance for everyday driving and light-duty tasks. Its simplicity and reliability made it a popular choice for fleet buyers or those seeking a dependable work truck. | The 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 was a standout in terms of innovation and efficiency. With 325 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, this twin-turbocharged engine delivered impressive acceleration and towing capabilities. Advanced technologies such as direct fuel injection and auto start-stop functionality helped maximize fuel efficiency, making it an appealing option for buyers who prioritized both power and economy. | For those seeking traditional V8 power, the 5.0-liter engine was a strong contender. Producing 385 horsepower and 387 lb-ft of torque, it excelled in towing and hauling applications. The V8’s robust performance, coupled with its distinctive exhaust note, made it a favorite among truck enthusiasts and buyers who needed serious capability for work or recreation. | At the top of the lineup was the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which delivered 365 horsepower and an impressive 420 lb-ft of torque. This engine was designed for heavy-duty tasks, offering the highest towing capacity in the F-150 lineup. Its broad torque curve ensured confident performance, whether towing a large trailer, climbing steep grades, or passing on the highway. |
All engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, featuring a tow/haul mode to optimize performance under heavy loads. The transmission provided smooth and precise shifts, contributing to the truck’s refined driving experience. For buyers seeking enhanced off-road performance, the F-150 offered an available four-wheel-drive system with selectable drive modes.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The 2016 Ford F-150 excelled in towing and payload capabilities, making it a top choice for those who needed a truck for demanding tasks. With the right configuration, it could tow up to 12,200 pounds, a figure that rivaled or exceeded most competitors in the segment. The truck’s payload capacity reached a class-leading 3,270 pounds, thanks in part to its lightweight yet strong aluminum construction.
Ford enhanced the towing experience with advanced features designed to simplify and improve safety. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist system, introduced in 2016, allowed drivers to control their trailer’s direction using a dashboard-mounted knob. This innovative feature made reversing with a trailer easier and more intuitive, even for inexperienced drivers.
Additional towing aids included an integrated trailer brake controller, trailer sway control, and a smart trailer tow connector that provided alerts for issues such as burned-out trailer lights or disconnected wiring. These features ensured that the F-150 was not only capable of towing heavy loads but also designed to do so with maximum safety and convenience.
Trim Levels and Features
Ford offered the 2016 F-150 in six main trims, each tailored to different needs and preferences:
| XL | XLT | Lariat | King Ranch | Platinum | Limited |
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The XL trim served as the entry-level model, focusing on practicality and affordability. It included:
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The XLT added a touch of style and convenience, making it a popular choice for everyday use. Features included:
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The Lariat trim introduced premium features and advanced technology, including:
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The King Ranch trim catered to buyers who appreciated Western-inspired luxury, offering:
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The Platinum trim emphasized sophistication and cutting-edge technology. Key features included:
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The Limited trim represented the pinnacle of luxury in the F-150 lineup. Highlights included:
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Each trim level could be further customized with optional packages and standalone features, allowing buyers to tailor their truck to their specific needs.
Ride and Handling
The 2016 Ford F-150 offered a remarkably smooth and composed ride for a full-size pickup truck. The reduced weight from the aluminum body played a significant role in improving the truck’s agility and handling dynamics. Whether navigating tight urban streets or tackling winding rural roads, the F-150 felt more responsive than many competitors.
The truck's suspension system contributed significantly to its ride quality. Up front, it featured an independent double-wishbone suspension, which helped absorb bumps and irregularities in the road. At the rear, a solid axle with leaf springs ensured durability and strength for heavy loads while still providing a comfortable ride. Drivers appreciated the well-balanced steering, which was light enough for city driving yet provided ample feedback for highway cruising or towing scenarios.
For off-road enthusiasts, the FX4 Off-Road Package added specialized suspension tuning, skid plates, and off-road shock absorbers, enhancing the F-150’s ability to tackle rugged terrain without compromising its on-road comfort.
Interior Space and Ergonomics
The 2016 F-150 offered a thoughtfully designed interior that prioritized comfort and functionality. Depending on the cab style, the truck could seat up to six passengers, with generous headroom and legroom even in the rear seats of the SuperCrew configuration.
The dashboard layout was intuitive, with controls placed within easy reach of the driver. Knobs and buttons were large and well-spaced, making them easy to operate even while wearing gloves—an important consideration for work truck buyers. Higher trims featured soft-touch materials and high-quality finishes, elevating the cabin's look and feel to rival that of luxury SUVs.
Storage solutions were abundant, with large door pockets, a spacious center console, and hidden compartments beneath the rear seats in SuperCab and SuperCrew models. These practical touches made the F-150’s cabin a functional workspace and a comfortable environment for long journeys.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system debuted in the 2016 F-150, replacing the older MyFord Touch system. SYNC 3 was praised for its user-friendly interface, featuring a responsive 8-inch touchscreen with clear graphics and intuitive menus. Key features included:
- Smartphone Integration: Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allowed users to seamlessly connect their devices for hands-free calls, messaging, and music streaming.
- Voice Commands: Enhanced voice recognition made it easy to control navigation, climate settings, and media without taking hands off the wheel.
- Navigation System: Available on higher trims, the built-in navigation system offered real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn directions.
- Entertainment Options: A premium Sony audio system, available in select trims, provided excellent sound quality, while satellite radio and USB ports ensured diverse media options.
Work-Friendly Features
The 2016 F-150 was designed with productivity in mind, offering a range of features tailored to meet the needs of contractors, farmers, and other professionals. Key work-friendly options included:
- BoxLink System: This innovative cargo management system allowed users to secure a variety of accessories, from toolboxes to bike racks, using configurable cleats.
- LED Box Lighting: Bright LED lights in the bed made it easier to load and unload cargo in low-light conditions.
- Integrated Tailgate Step: The built-in step and grab handle provided easy access to the truck bed, a feature appreciated by those frequently loading heavy equipment.
- Mobile Office Capability: With the SuperCrew’s spacious center console, owners could store laptops, documents, and other office essentials, making the truck a mobile workspace.
Aftermarket Support and Customization
One of the F-150’s biggest strengths was its immense aftermarket support. Owners could choose from a vast array of accessories and upgrades to enhance their truck’s performance, functionality, or aesthetics. Popular customization options included:
- Lift Kits: For off-road enthusiasts, lift kits increased ground clearance and improved the truck’s rugged appearance.
- Performance Upgrades: Options like cold air intakes, performance exhaust systems, and engine tuners allowed owners to extract more power from their F-150.
- Bed Accessories: Toolboxes, tonneau covers, and ladder racks were available for those using the truck for work.
- Lighting Kits: From LED light bars to custom headlight assemblies, lighting upgrades were a popular choice for both off-road and urban use.
Warranty and Ownership Costs
Ford offered competitive warranty coverage for the 2016 F-150, ensuring peace of mind for buyers. The basic warranty included:
- 3-Year/36,000-Mile Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: Covered most components, protecting against manufacturing defects.
- 5-Year/60,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty: Covered major engine and drivetrain components, providing added assurance for long-term owners.
- 5-Year/60,000-Mile Roadside Assistance: Included services like towing, battery jump-starts, and lockout assistance.
Ownership costs for the F-150 were reasonable for its class, with maintenance and repair expenses in line with those of competitors. The aluminum body, while more resistant to rust, required specialized repair techniques, which could increase costs in the event of significant damage. However, the truck’s overall reliability and durability minimized the likelihood of major repairs.
Environmental Considerations
The introduction of EcoBoost engines in the F-150 lineup demonstrated Ford’s commitment to improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions without sacrificing performance. The 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines featured advanced technologies like direct fuel injection and turbocharging, which optimized combustion and minimized waste.
The use of aluminum alloy in the F-150’s construction also contributed to its environmental impact. The material is fully recyclable, and the weight reduction it provided resulted in lower fuel consumption, reducing the truck’s carbon footprint over its lifespan.
Fleet Use and Commercial Applications
The 2016 F-150 was a popular choice for fleet buyers, thanks to its combination of durability, fuel efficiency, and customizable configurations. Businesses in industries like construction, agriculture, and logistics valued the truck for its ability to handle demanding tasks while keeping operating costs low. Ford also offered specialized fleet programs, including volume discounts and tailored service packages, to support commercial customers.
Resale Value and Long-Term Investment
The 2016 F-150 maintained strong resale value due to its reputation for quality and capability. Buyers seeking a used F-150 could expect to pay a premium compared to similar trucks from competing brands, a testament to the model’s enduring popularity. For original owners, this strong resale value made the F-150 a smart long-term investment.
