I finally gave in and took an 09 FX4 x-cab for a test drive. For those of you that own one, you would know much much more about these new trucks so feel free to give some input.

First i will start off with the good:
-The engine and tranny work awesome together. The power was much much more noticeable than the 08's. IT also seem quieter, smoother, and much more refined. The tranny seemed to keep the engine in its power band. I stepped on the pedal numerous times and was amazed at how the truck accelerated.
-The overall ride was a little bit better, but it was quieter than my 08 f-150 FX4.
The information center on the dash displayed just about everything you need to know about whats going on with the truck, especially the fuel economy. I really wish my 08 had that.
-The overall look of the truck was great.
-The flat rear floor was great.
-The blue lights on the dash and radio are better looking than the old green.
-Overall the truck is much improved from the 04-08's.

Now the cons:
-The first thing i did when i got in was reach for the grab handle, and found that there wasnt one there. This truck had 18" rims and no running boards, it was difficult to get in. Ford needs to put the grab handle back on the driver side.
-The dash seemed to sit much higher and bit more forward. As i was driving it seemed like it was at eye level almost.
-Way too many buttons on the center stack.
-The ugly black grille needs to go. They should give it a grille that is similar to the one on the Super Duty FX4's.
-I hear everyone talk about the exhaust on the new ones, i have to tell you the exhaust was quiet. My 08 is stock and it sounds like a flowmaster to be honest. I hear it constantly when i am driving.

I wish the economy would pick up, because i would buy one right now. I am a die hard ford man, so there isnt enough bad in the 09's to keep me away. I drove my 08 FX4 home and it felt like driving in my dad's 02 after driving in my 08.

 

Why is a quiet exhaust a "con"?? I love when I can't hear it. It always cracks me up when I see people put $5000 sound systems in their vehicles then install a throaty exhaust or fart cannon and ruin all the quality.

 

Well maybe i shouldnt have put that under a con. Just saying was expecting it to sound like my 08 and it was quiet. I myself prefer the exhaust to be quiet.

 

If you felt that way about your '08 after the test drive, how do you think I'll feel about my '88 after a test drive?

Tim

 

My 09 sounds good. When you get on it, it has a great sound. Not as loud as the Borla Stingers on my vette, but good enough for me.

 

It may just be me, but it seems like my exhaust has gotten a little louder as I have accumulated miles. My '09 stock exhaust is DEFINITELY a lot throatier than my '01 was stock. Like Bowhunter said, when you stomp it, it sounds awesome.

 

one thing i do agree on is the driver side grab handle, i would like to have one

and for running borad just tell them you won't buy a truck in less they but them on

 

i think running boards are part of the lpp ( little person package).....running boards, adj pedals, telescoping steering wheel and booster drivers chair.....ha ha I love being 6-4

 

I used to think that way too until my wife had knee replacement surgery. Without the running boards, she wouldn't be able get in or out very comfortably.

Tim