The 2021 Ford F-350 heavy-duty truck is still relatively fresh, so the Blue Oval company doesn’t need to upgrades it only a year after it hit the new generation. Still, the competition is not leaving the market so easily. The latest moves by FCA and GM indicate that we will see an even bigger fight in the Series 3 class. Still, Ford is holding the number 1 position in towing capacity and total torque coming from its turbodiesel unit. Plus, there is a new petrol engine under the hood of the Super Duty class.
Engines are the highlight of the new HD truck. But, there are a lot of other cool features that make the Series 3 model so interesting. For example, maximum towing capacity can go over 37,000 pounds. Whatsoever, you will need a dual-rear-wheel configuration with the diesel unit. Then, there are high-end trim levels that will make the truck very luxurious. Some call it home on wheels. The Raptor package is a wish, but it seems impossible. Tremor package is a good alternative though.
2021 Ford F-350: Under the Hood
A diesel engine is what makes this truck so special. Even the arrival of the new 7.3-liter petrol unit cannot overshadow its magnificent towing capacities. And, the engine that arrived didn’t replace the old gasoline powerplant. Ford is keeping both petrol mills. It seems like engineers are looking for positive feedback on the new unit before they discontinue a 6.2-liter V8 model.
It will still be the standard offer. The entry-level truck can produce 385 hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. The new one upgrades the outputs to 430 hp and 475 pound-feet of twist. Compared to the towing capacity, the larger displacement can pull 2,000 pounds more than its predecessor. Whatsoever, that is nothing compared to 37,000 lbs coming from Powerstroke oil-burner.
A 6.7-liter turbodiesel displacement is paired with the new transmission that makes it more efficient. Alisson 10-speed case is one of the reasons why the entire system is working so smoothly on the 2021 Ford F-350. Some say that FCA could adopt the same gearbox for its RAM 3500 HD truck and replace an aging AISIN transmission. Still, we expect a response from another big company in this segment. The maximum torque is now at 1,050 lb-ft, while the power output of a diesel unit is 450 hp. The Powerstroke plant, Allison transmission, and dual-rear-wheel setup are required for the maximum towing capacity.
Trim Levels
Like its smaller sibling, F-150, the 2021 Ford F-350 will offer plenty of options for its buyers. The company prepared six trim levels to start the build. The entry-level version is XL with 17-inch wheels and Trailer package included in the offer. More upscale materials are coming with the XLT, as well as the blind-spot monitoring. A 9-inch screen is the center of the SYNC3 infotainment, which also offers leading smartphone integration services. The XLT is one of the best values in the lineup.
The 2021 Ford F-350 Lariat is already bringing some premium features, such as halogen fog lights and leather seats. Bang & Olufsen is delivering advanced sound system. King Ranch pushes it even further with LED lamps in the box and ambient cabin lighting. An advanced trailer system is also added. You can purchase this one only with the Crew Cab.
Two top of the line models are pretty luxurious. For example, Platinum uses LED lamps for all lights. Heated and ventilated front buckets are standard. Adaptive steering and cruise control are added as well. Limited launches the 2021 Ford F-350 to the premium segment with wireless charging system, power moonroof, quad-beam lights, and many more options.
Tremor Package
The company adds the off-road package for the current edition of the truck. We are sure that 2021 Ford F-350 Tremor is going to be part of the offer in the future as well. Unfortunately, it is not as mean as the Raptor. The upgrade will cost $3,000 and it includes locking rear differential, special tires, skid plates, and a small lift of suspension system. There is also a towing winch feature that adds 12,000 pounds boost.
2021 Ford F-350 Prices and Competition
Only three companies are producing trucks for the heavy-duty segment. It is not easy to deliver a competitive unit, although it is one of the most attractive classes, generating the highest profit. The base price of the 2021 Ford F-350 will be $36,000. The most expensive trim is Limited and you will have to spend a little fortune on this one ($85,000). King Ranch is already premium truck and it can save you $25,000 while the XLT is our recommendation.
The F-350 Super Duty model will face the competition by two other Series 3 trucks in the US market. Chevy Silverado 3500 and GMC Sierra 3500 are the mechanical twins. Ram 3500 is also very attractive, although the Power Wagon is not available for this one.