http://nationalpost.com/driversedge/story.html?id={D54BC4A8-57B6-47D0-B22D-D74496F6F252}

The information is weeded among the new Mercury Marauder information, but it's at the bottom of the story.

""Along with a revised exterior, the interior styling marks a radical departure from the plastic-seated, rubber-matted designs of old.

There will be five variations on the new theme, each catering to a different buyer -- worker, family and those seeking something more upscale to name three.

As the picture shows, the new truck benefits from a console-mounted shifter (a bench seat will still be offered), some wood and metallic trim, futuristic air vents and seat belts that reel out of the seat back rather than being tacked to the body.

Without breaking the embargo, it is safe to say the look and feel is more in line with a luxury car than a pickup truck.

As for power, the new F-150 will use reworked versions of the current range of modular engines. The difference comes from a three-valve cylinder head design. Where this design pays dividends is in the spark plug's placement. With a conventional two-valve engine, the plug is forced to sit off on one side. Adding a third valve (another intake valve) allows the valves to be spaced such that the plug can be placed in the middle of the combustion chamber. This simple alteration allows the compression ratio to be raised, but without the need for premium fuel. The result is more power and fewer emissions. The range will include 4.6L and 5.4L V8s and a 6.8L V10 engine.

After virtually abandoning the passenger car market in favour of the more profitable truck side of the business, Ford is embarking on somewhat of an about-face. With more emphasis being placed on the automobile, its occupants and the environment, Ford's future looks healthier than it did before the technology seminar.""







'93 F-150 loaded and modified!
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