Effortless but thirsty
Motivated by a new 6.4-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel engine, the F-350 can tow up to 5,897 kilos (over 13,200 pounds). I like the fact that Ford chose to make available the TowCommand system with Trailer Brake Controller. The latter is easy to use and affords a better control of the towing load, even light ones. With 325 horsepower and, most importantly, 600 foot-pounds of torque on tap, the F-350 takes off and pulls away without breaking a sweat.
While precise, the steering feels artificial due to a lack of road feedback. On the flip side, the five-speed automatic transmission is a good fit for most duties.
The high fuel consumption left me somewhat surprised, especially coming from a diesel engine. Of course, the turbocharger has a lot to do with it. I wound up with an average of 28 L/100 km.
I also want to point out that I drove at night on a couple of occasions and, with the fog lights off, I found the range of the headlights to be a bit too short.
Convenient cargo bed
Ford is a smart company -- and I'm not paid to tell you that. Witness the cargo bed, which can now be accessed more easily thanks to a safe, easy-to-use integrated tailgate step. I would select this option even on a lower model or with a different type of cab, because it really makes access and loading easier. How many times have you hurt your back while trying to climb on a truck bed?
What's more, the tough plastic bedliner maximizes the durability of the cargo bed. You can even add a stowable bed extender for carrying longer items.
Built Ford Tough
The new 2008 F-350 has all the qualities that vacationers and entrepreneurs look for when they need to tow a boat or any kind of trailer. In Quebec and Ontario, you will likely have a hard time spotting one, but in Western Canada and the U.S., they are almost commonplace. Depending on your needs, you can shell out a fortune and purchase a luxurious pickup truck like the King Ranch... or you can find a more affordable yet generously equipped model that will meet most of your requirements.
Towing power
Interior comfort
Integrated tailgate step
Fuel consumption
None, provided that you use it appropriately
photo:Amyot Bachand
Motivated by a new 6.4-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel engine, the F-350 can tow up to 5,897 kilos (over 13,200 pounds). I like the fact that Ford chose to make available the TowCommand system with Trailer Brake Controller. The latter is easy to use and affords a better control of the towing load, even light ones. With 325 horsepower and, most importantly, 600 foot-pounds of torque on tap, the F-350 takes off and pulls away without breaking a sweat.
While precise, the steering feels artificial due to a lack of road feedback. On the flip side, the five-speed automatic transmission is a good fit for most duties.
The high fuel consumption left me somewhat surprised, especially coming from a diesel engine. Of course, the turbocharger has a lot to do with it. I wound up with an average of 28 L/100 km.
I also want to point out that I drove at night on a couple of occasions and, with the fog lights off, I found the range of the headlights to be a bit too short.
 |
| The turbodiesel is noisy but the cabin is adequately soundproofed. |
Convenient cargo bed
Ford is a smart company -- and I'm not paid to tell you that. Witness the cargo bed, which can now be accessed more easily thanks to a safe, easy-to-use integrated tailgate step. I would select this option even on a lower model or with a different type of cab, because it really makes access and loading easier. How many times have you hurt your back while trying to climb on a truck bed?
What's more, the tough plastic bedliner maximizes the durability of the cargo bed. You can even add a stowable bed extender for carrying longer items.
Built Ford Tough
The new 2008 F-350 has all the qualities that vacationers and entrepreneurs look for when they need to tow a boat or any kind of trailer. In Quebec and Ontario, you will likely have a hard time spotting one, but in Western Canada and the U.S., they are almost commonplace. Depending on your needs, you can shell out a fortune and purchase a luxurious pickup truck like the King Ranch... or you can find a more affordable yet generously equipped model that will meet most of your requirements.
 |
Interior comfort
Integrated tailgate step
 |
Fuel consumption
 |
None, provided that you use it appropriately
photo:Amyot Bachand
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