2020-2023 Ford F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCrew 3.5 EcoBoost V6 (400 Hp) Automatic

The Ford F-150 XIV SuperCrew, equipped with the 3.5 EcoBoost V6 engine and automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series lineup. Produced from October 2020 through 2023, this variant occupied a prominent position within the F-150 range, offering a blend of substantial power, towing capacity, and modern technology geared towards the American truck buyer. It falls within the fourteenth generation (F-150 XIV) of the F-Series, known for its increased use of aluminum alloy body panels and advanced driver-assistance systems. This particular configuration aimed to deliver a premium experience without reaching the very top-tier trims like the Limited or Raptor.

Technical Specifications

Brand Ford
Model F-Series F-100/F-150
Generation F-Series F-150 XIV SuperCrew
Type (Engine) 3.5 EcoBoost V6 (400 Hp) Automatic
Start of production October, 2020
End of production 2023
Powertrain Architecture Internal Combustion engine
Body type Pick-up
Seats 5-6
Doors 4
Fuel consumption (urban) 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l)
Fuel consumption (extra urban) 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l)
Fuel consumption (combined) 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l)
Fuel Type Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio 5.3 kg/Hp, 187.8 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio 3.1 kg/Nm, 318.3 Nm/tonne
Power 400 Hp @ 6000 rpm
Power per litre 114.4 Hp/l
Torque 678 Nm @ 3100 rpm (500.07 lb.-ft. @ 3100 rpm)
Engine layout Front, Longitudinal
Engine displacement 3497 cm3 (213.4 cu. in.)
Number of cylinders 6
Engine configuration V-engine
Cylinder Bore 92.46 mm (3.64 in.)
Piston Stroke 86.61 mm (3.41 in.)
Compression ratio 10.5:1
Fuel injection system Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration Twin-Turbo, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt)
Coolant 13.5 l (14.27 US qt | 11.88 UK qt)
Kerb Weight 2130-2155 kg (4695.85 – 4750.96 lbs.)
Max. weight 3561 kg (7850.66 lbs.)
Max load 1406-1431 kg (3099.7 – 3154.81 lbs.)
Trunk (boot) space – minimum 1495-1764 l (52.8 – 62.3 cu. ft.)
Fuel tank capacity 87-136 l (22.98 – 35.93 US gal | 19.14 – 29.92 UK gal)
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) 6350 kg (13999.35 lbs.)
Length 5885-6185 mm (231.69 – 243.5 in.)
Width 2029 mm (79.88 in.)
Width with mirrors folded 2123 mm (83.58 in.)
Width including mirrors 2431 mm (95.71 in.)
Height 1920-1925 mm (75.59 – 75.79 in.)
Wheelbase 3693-3993 mm (145.39 – 157.2 in.)
Front track 1725 mm (67.91 in.)
Rear (Back) track 1735 mm (68.31 in.)
Front overhang 955 mm (37.6 in.)
Rear overhang 1234 mm (48.58 in.)
Ride height (ground clearance) 208-216 mm (8.19 – 8.5 in.)
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) 14.6-15.6 m (47.9 – 51.18 ft.)
Approach angle 21-21.8°
Departure angle 22.9-23.9°
Ramp-over (brakeover) angle 16.6-17.6°
Drivetrain Architecture The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheel Rear wheel drive
Number of gears and type of gearbox 10 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift
Front suspension Double wishbone
Rear suspension Leaf spring
Front brakes Ventilated discs, 350×34 mm
Rear brakes Ventilated discs, 336×20 mm
Assisting systems ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering type Steering rack and pinion
Power steering Electric Steering
Tires size 245/70 R17 110T; 265/70 R17 115T; 265/60 R18 110T; 275/65 R18 116T; 275/60 R20 115T; 275/50 R22 115T
Wheel rims size 7.5J x 17; 7.5J x 18; 8.5J x 20; 9J x 22

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the F-150 XIV SuperCrew 3.5 EcoBoost lies the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes a combination of twin-turbocharging and direct fuel injection to deliver a substantial 400 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 678 lb-ft of torque at 3100 rpm. The engine code is typically found within the vehicle’s identification number and build sheet. The direct injection system, coupled with a multi-port manifold injection, optimizes fuel delivery for both power and efficiency. The twin-turbochargers, with an integrated intercooler, minimize turbo lag and maximize boost across a wide range of engine speeds. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The 10-speed automatic transmission, dubbed SelectShift, is a crucial component of this powertrain. Its wide gear ratio spread allows for both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.

Driving Characteristics

The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 with the 10-speed automatic delivers a markedly different driving experience compared to lower-powered F-150 variants. The readily available torque makes towing and hauling heavy loads effortless. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, providing responsive acceleration. While not as fuel-efficient as the base engine options, the EcoBoost offers a compelling balance of power and usability. Compared to a manual transmission equipped F-150, the automatic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, making it ideal for daily driving and long-distance trips. The gear ratios are tuned for both quick off-the-line acceleration and relaxed highway cruising, with the higher gears contributing to lower engine speeds and improved fuel economy at sustained speeds.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The F-150 XIV SuperCrew 3.5 EcoBoost typically came standard with a robust set of features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels, such as the Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum, added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a trailer tow package, and various off-road enhancements. Interior upholstery varied depending on the trim level, ranging from cloth in base models to premium leather in higher-end configurations. The dashboard layout was generally consistent across trims, with variations in trim materials and feature availability.

Chassis & Braking

The F-150 XIV SuperCrew utilizes a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel and aluminum alloy. The front suspension features an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employs a leaf spring setup. This combination provides a comfortable ride and capable load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors and more robust calipers on higher trim levels. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a balance between ride comfort and handling, making it suitable for both on-road and light off-road use.

Market Reception & Comparison

The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 quickly became a popular choice among F-150 buyers, praised for its strong performance and relatively good fuel economy compared to traditional V8 engines. Critics generally lauded the engine’s power and responsiveness, as well as the smooth shifting of the 10-speed automatic transmission. Compared to the naturally aspirated V8 options, the EcoBoost offered more torque and better fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the EcoBoost engine could be more complex and potentially more expensive to repair than a traditional V8. The 3.5 EcoBoost was often positioned as a sweet spot in the F-150 lineup, offering a compelling combination of power, efficiency, and features.

Legacy

The 3.5 EcoBoost V6 has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain, although, like any turbocharged engine, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspection of the turbochargers and cooling system. In the used car market, F-150s equipped with this engine and transmission hold their value well, due to their strong performance and reputation for reliability. The engine’s continued use in subsequent F-150 generations is a testament to its success and enduring appeal. While long-term maintenance costs can be higher than simpler engines, the benefits of increased power and efficiency continue to make this a desirable powertrain option for truck buyers.

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