Grab a 2016 F-150 Now or Wait for the 2017 F-150?
We’re approaching the time of year when the 2016 F-150s are going away and will be replaced by the 2017 version. That means that there’ll be a period of time when both model years will be sitting on dealer lots. To get rid of the old inventory, dealerships will be marking down the ’16s in order to move them out. Should you pick up one of those trucks while you still can, or should you wait and opt for the 2017 model?
Obviously it will be up to your individual needs, but there are some compelling reasons to wait it out. First of all, if you are opting for the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 2nd-generation one available in the 2017 truck makes more horsepower and torque — 370 hp and 470 lb-ft — than the previous version of the truck. The new EcoBoost engine is mated to a brand-new 10-speed automatic transmission. That new transmission should provide better acceleration, better towing characteristics, and better fuel economy.
On the fuel economy route, the new engine also includes start / stop to help save a few drops of fuel at traffic lights and stop signs.
If those things matter to you, then you’ll want to wait and get the ’17. If you’re not interested in those things, consider snatching up a 2016 while you still can.
The 2016 F-150’s 3.5L EcoBoost is a capable engine, but we’re particular fans of the 2.7L V6 EcoBoost that comes as an option on the lower trims like the XLT. It’s a peach of an engine, and according to our collective butt-dynos, we can’t tell a huge difference in normal driving between that and the more-powerful engine. For the few hundred dollars more it costs over the base, naturally-aspirated V6, it’s a no-brainer of an upgrade.
The 5.0L V8 is unchanged, and if you want a V8 it’s the way to go. Remember, if you have any interest in the snow plow prep kit for the F-150 you have to spec your truck with the 5.0L V8. A snow plow blocks the required cooling that the EcoBoost engine needs. Also remember that the snow plow prep package is a $50 option when ordering a truck.
While the engine and transmission changes are fairly significant at the top end for the 2017 F-150, most of the other technology and powertrain options remain unchanged for the new model year. You can still get SYNC 3 in the 2016 models. You can still get blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control if you want. The more-powerful big engine and the 10-speed transmission are the only real reasons to wait.
Remember that a 2016 is soon going to be a model year old, and that will cut into the depreciation quicker than a new truck, but the cost savings by purchasing a model year old truck should more than make up for that difference. Now that automotive sales are starting to plateau, dealers are going to be looking to cut prices to move metal. Now might be the time to go get the truck you’ve always wanted.
What do you think?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or over in the forums!
