Check out the 2018 F-150 Lariat

Ford F-150 Lariat

From the late 90’s and on, Ford wasn’t known for their top-notch sedans or minivans, instead, they were synonymous for well-built and reliable pick-up trucks. Each new generation outdid the previous models, opting for more aggressive aesthetics, fuel efficient, yet powerful drivetrain, and more space. The new Lariat takes everything we loved about the 12th gen and blew it out of the water.

It sports a 700-lb lightweight chassis, your choice of one of three excellent engines and redesigned body. Inside you’ll find some cool optional features, such as adaptive cruise control and proximity sensors. Looks like Ford has finally decided to play catch up with its comfort technology. 

>>Join the conversation about this 2018 F-150 Lariat right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Engine Options

Chances are if you’re buying a truck its not for the looks. The new F-150 series features three newly revised 2.7-liter, 3.5-liter, and 5.0-liter engine choices. Each engine is good in its own right, balancing power output with fuel economy. 

The 2.7L Ecoboost V6 is the smallest of the all three offered, and puts out 325hp @ 400 lb.-ft of torque. Its able to produce these numbers using PFDI, (port fuel and direct injection) system. This system puts two injectors at each cylinder to which optimizes fuel delivery. This engine is rated best in class for fuel economy at an estimated combined 22mpg.

The 3.5L Ecoboost Twin Turbo V6 uses the same PDFI system, but puts out 375hp at 470 ft. lbs of torque. Combined fuel economy only decreases by one at 21mpg and its higher torque numbers means better towing capability. These engines are rated to handle up to 13,200 pounds tow weight. 

Last but definitely not least, is the 5.0L V8 naturally aspirated engine. This is perfect for those of you looked to stock your truck full of equipment, as it has a payload capacity of 3,270 pounds. Its rated at 395hp and 400 lb.-ft of torque, with an expected combined efficiency rating of 19mpg. 

>>Join the conversation about this 2018 F-150 Lariat right here in Ford-trucks.com.

SelectShift Transmission

As you can see across the board, Ford made an effort to outperform its competitors in power output and fuel economy. But its safe to say, those numbers would not have been possible without the new SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission. Produced by a joint-effort from both Ford and GM, this transmission features new adaptive technology that allows it to time shifts appropriately, and better control the overall fuel output. It comes standard with each of these available engine models. One of the coolest features it offers has to be its smaller gear ratios, which allows the engine to shift without losing too much peak torque. 

>>Join the conversation about this 2018 F-150 Lariat right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Exterior

A quick glance at the new Lariat and you probably couldn’t tell what exactly changed, but as always, it's in the details! The front-end features three brand new grills to choose from, all of which utilize a two bar, parallel design. Its headlights and taillights are also subtly different, where the older models had the top and bottom LED lights meshed together. Here, the sections of the light housing are separated by the turn signal placements. The tailgate has an imprinted F-150 stamped right under the handle for an awesome aggressive flair. 

>>Join the conversation about this 2018 F-150 Lariat right here in Ford-trucks.com.

Interior and Comfort

With trucks like these space isn’t just an issue of convenience, but of necessity, and the Lariat does not disappoint. With lots of leg and headroom, it will not be an issue to relax after a hard day’s work. Seats are available with a 40/20/40 leather trim, have 10-way adjustability, driver memory settings and are heated. The SYNC 3 infotainment is easily accessible through the 8-inch touchscreen located in the center console. Besides offering the essentials, drivers can select optional equipment including 360-Degree Camera with Split-view, adaptive cruise control, proximity sensors, lane-keeping system and more. 

>>Join the conversation about this 2018 F-150 Lariat right here in Ford-trucks.com.

For help with your maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section right here in the forum.