Lisa and I took the new F150 to Des Moines and back this past weekend. It’s every bit as smooth and quiet as we had hoped; I would say it probably comes close to most luxury cars. Gas mileage was not spectacular, but I’ll reserve judgment on that issue. We’re still in the break-in phase; in fact, there was under 100 miles on the odometer when we left. Temperatures hovered at or below freezing for most of the weekend, and we had a stiff cross wind both ways. I also have not put a bed cover on yet, and I know that will make a difference.
The EcoBoost engine pulls smooth and strong from idle to highway speeds; you really have no indication you have a V6 under the hood. Horsepower and torque are higher than the new 5 liter V8. In fact, it outperforms last year’s 5.4 liter by a good margin (320 HP/390 ft-lb for the 5.4, 365 HP/420 ft-lb for the little 3.5 EcoBoost). This engine is amazing. No turbo lag or whine, just quiet power from an engine that pulls like a mule.
I’m looking at what to do to get the ham rig installed. There really isn’t a hidden spot in the cavernous F150 cab for the transceiver; I may be able to wedge it in under the seat, but I’m not sure yet. I think there’s plenty of room under the dash, but I’m not inclined to drill anywhere. I’ll have to do some looking. The antenna might be a challenge as well; I believe that’s a fiberglass hood.