2021 Ford F-150:
Predicted 5-Year Cost to Own: $48,456
Compared to segment average: -$4,274
For more than four decades, the Ford F-Series has been the bestselling truck in the U.S. And for more than 30 years, it has been the bestselling vehicle in the U.S. Ford
F,
+0.13%
has built on the capability and tech-forward nature of the F-150 for 2021. This year, the truck is all-new. It also offers the best 5-Year Cost to Own numbers among full-size pickup trucks.
The full-size truck segment is highly competitive, but there are some key factors that buyers are looking for. At the top of the list is capability. Here, the 2021 Ford F-150 reigns. It has best-in-class towing capacity, the highest payload capacity, and the most powerful engine. It also offers a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, good for up to 26 mpg, a range of 650 miles, and a towing capacity of 12,000 pounds. And an electric F-150 is on the way.
Also on MarketWatch: Used cars and housing costs drove inflation last month
The F-150 has embraced technology, specifically to make it easier to get the job done. New for 2021 is the option of Pro Power Onboard, which allows the F-150 to serve as a generator. There are three different levels of power available with the gas engines, and one comes standard with the Hybrid. The most powerful version is only optional with the Hybrid.
Other standout tech includes the blind-spot system that also accounts for your trailer. Then there’s the Pro Trailer Backup Assist that lets you back your trailer into a spot by turning a knob. And the new SYNC 4 system is the most intuitive and easiest system Ford has offered to date.
There’s plenty of safety tech, too. All F-150s come standard with elements of Ford Co-Pilot360 technology, including forward-collision warning, hill start assist, pre-collision assist with auto emergency braking (with pedestrian detection), and auto hold.
The new interior is designed for the workweek as well as the weekend. The F-150’s seats are cushy and comfortable, and in some models, you can get the fold-flat Max Recline seats. There are also seat heaters and massagers, plus plenty of upscale trim levels that are downright luxurious. When it’s time to work, there’s an Interior Work Surface that converts the center console into a handy spot for your laptop. You can use the touch screen to manage Pro Power Onboard.
If you’re hauling, features like the integrated tailgate step make it easier to access and load gear. If the F-150 is the family vehicle, the spacious cabin with a flat second-row floor will make everyone comfortable. And you will have the satisfaction that the 2021 Ford F-150 has the lowest cost to own in its segment.
Be sure to read: Americans’ love affair with pickup trucks might be derailing their retirement plans
KBB’s 5-Year Cost to Own is the total amount of vehicle-related costs you will likely have to cover during the first 5 years of owning a car. This includes out-of-pocket expenses like fuel and insurance, and vehicle depreciation (loss in value).
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
