Stacked Trim
Stamped right into the body, Super Duty means work. While utilitarian in purpose, Ford’s heavyweight beast is packed with impressive creature comforts and luxury features. Designed for towing, hauling, plowing, and even off-roading, the lineup is stacked with three models and multiple trim levels. It is more truck than most will ever need, but for those that do, it is impressive.
Inventory Options
The latest round of F-250, F-350, and beefy F-450 Super Duty trucks received a host of upgrades, including improved technology features, new appearance packages, and color options. The problem is getting one. As of summer 2022, Ford announced, “Due to high demand, the current model year is no longer available for retail order.” Although, select dealerships may still have inventory.
Work Sport
Lack of stock may be an issue for Ford, but buyers might benefit from waiting. The Super Duty lineup is slated to undergo a more comprehensive redesign in 2023. Those fortunate enough to nab a current year model are in for a treat. Blurring the line between work and play, the Super Duty Lariat and XLT were offered with a range of cosmetic options.
Unique Highlights
In a trend that will hopefully continue, the competitive Sport Appearance Package is tip to tail. Unique to the Lariat, the optional aesthetic revision included body-color front and rear bumpers, a body-color grille, and exterior mirror highlights. As a step-up, it also got platform running boards, a chrome exhaust tip, and a unique Sport 4×4 box decal.
Cosmetic Ovals
Billed as more aggressive, the Super Duty Lariat and XLT were offered with a Black Appearance Package. The intimidating look included twenty-inch Ebony Black-painted premium wheels with A/T tires, body-color front and rear bumpers, grille bars, six-inch Ebony Black running boards, and front and rear black Blue Ovals. These cosmetic options join the host of other functional and appearance packages on offer.
Largest Options
Ford is not shy about promoting its tough work trucks. They state, “The Super Duty lineup…is almost unmatched on the market. In the category of full-size pickup trucks of similar weight, it dominates on all levels.” Some of those bragging rights are the result of the Super Duty’s engine options, which include the largest displacement gasoline engine manufactured by the Motor Company.
Class Engine
Ford offers three engines for the Super Duty lineup. Ranking supreme is the 430 horsepower, 7.3L Godzilla V8. The monster motor is offered alongside the potent 6.7L Power Stroke turbo diesel, followed by the economy-minded 6.2L Boss. The Godzilla motor puts the Super Duty in a class of its own with the most horsepower and torque available for a gas-powered work truck.
Autonomous Traffic
The Lariat and above models received horizontally-oriented, twelve-inch touchscreens in 2022. The enhanced display is not only highly functional but a possible building platform for existing driver-assist technologies. Recently, Super Duty test trucks were spotted with autonomous vehicle hardware, capable of hands-free driving. Ford might not be able to soothe commuter traffic, but the morning coffee will be easier to handle.
Source: Ford Truck Enthusiasts
