The Ford F-150 XII SuperCab, produced from 2011 to 2014, represents a significant iteration of the best-selling full-size pickup truck in the United States. This generation (designated the F-150 XII) marked a period of refinement for the F-Series, introducing new technology and powertrain options while maintaining the rugged durability Ford trucks are known for. The 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine with 365 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system, was a key offering within the lineup, positioned as a powerful and technologically advanced option for buyers seeking a balance of capability and efficiency. The SuperCab configuration offered extended passenger space compared to the standard cab, making it suitable for both work and family use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XII SuperCab |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 EcoBoost (365 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 142.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 222.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 365 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 104.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 569 Nm @ 2500 rpm, 419.67 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3507 cm3, 214.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 15.6 l, 16.48 US qt | 13.73 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2556-2619 kg, 5635.02 – 5773.91 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 3719 kg, 8198.99 lbs. |
| Max load | 1100-1163 kg, 2425.08 – 2563.98 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 136 l, 35.93 US gal | 29.92 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 5126 kg, 11300.9 lbs. |
| Length | 5890-6360 mm, 231.89 – 250.39 in. |
| Width | 2012 mm, 79.21 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2464 mm, 97.01 in. |
| Height | 1923-1933 mm, 75.71 – 76.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3670-4143 mm, 144.49 – 163.11 in. |
| Front track | 1702 mm, 67.01 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm, 67.01 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.3-15.9 m, 46.92 – 52.17 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 351×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 348×25 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/70 R17; 265/60 R18; 275/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17; 7.5j x 18; 8.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, part of Ford’s EcoBoost family, utilizes a twin-turbocharged configuration to deliver a substantial increase in power and torque compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar displacement. The engine code is generally associated with the first generation of this engine. Direct fuel injection is employed for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (Ti-VCT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance across the engine’s operating range. The six-speed automatic transmission, specifically the 6R80E, was chosen for its durability and ability to handle the engine’s high output. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both strong acceleration and efficient highway cruising.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 in the F-150 SuperCab delivered a noticeable step up in performance compared to the base V6 and even some of the V8 options. The twin turbos provide a broad torque curve, resulting in strong acceleration from a standstill and ample power for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and responsively, although some drivers noted a slight delay in downshifts. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic offered greater convenience, particularly in city driving. However, the manual transmission generally provided slightly better fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience. The 4×4 system provided enhanced traction in various conditions, making it a capable off-road vehicle.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5L EcoBoost engine was typically offered on higher trim levels of the F-150 SuperCab, such as the XLT, Lariat, and King Ranch. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Higher trims added features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium audio system, navigation, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a moonroof, upgraded wheels, and various towing packages. The SuperCab configuration provided extended rear seating, offering more space for passengers compared to the regular cab models.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150 XII SuperCab utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension featured an independent double wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This combination offered a good balance of ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The braking system was generally considered adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, although some reviewers noted that the brake pedal felt somewhat soft.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its strong performance, fuel efficiency (relative to other full-size trucks), and advanced technology. Compared to the 5.0L V8, the EcoBoost offered similar power with improved fuel economy. However, some critics expressed concerns about the long-term reliability of the turbocharged engine and its complex fuel injection system. The EcoBoost engine typically commanded a higher price than the naturally aspirated V6 and V8 options.
Legacy
The 3.5L EcoBoost engine has become a mainstay of the Ford F-150 lineup, and continues to be refined and improved with each new generation. The initial generation of this engine, as found in the 2011-2014 F-150 SuperCab, has proven to be reasonably reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial. Common issues include spark plug fouling and turbocharger wear. In the used car market, these trucks hold their value relatively well, particularly those in good condition with a well-documented maintenance history. The introduction of the EcoBoost engine marked a turning point for Ford, demonstrating the potential of turbocharged engines in the full-size truck segment and paving the way for a new era of performance and efficiency.
