Of further benefit to the trailer towing population is Ford's Trailer Sway Control program, which applies engine modulation and asymmetrical braking to counter any perceived trailer-induced sway. This application is part of the vehicle's Advance Trac stability control system, which includes roll-mitigating technology.
Along with an integrated Trailer Brake Controller, the F150 is available with a Tow Haul mode that alters the shift schedule in favor of maintaining peak engine performance and engine-braking capacity. To ease the art of trailer hookup, Ford has centred the rearview camera above the hitch receiver and modified the screen to display pathway markers.
A number of other conveniences are available with the F150 as well, including a cleverly integrated tailgate step and two recessed side steps to ease access to the tall box. Given the aging demographic and the popularity of this automotive segment with the gray wave, these simple but useful assists are wise additions.
The wide range of F150 applications include many family-related uses. In addition to being praised for their utility, modern pickup trucks are expected to carry families in sublime comfort and safety. According to Matt, the 2009 F150 eclipses its previous generation in these areas as well, which is quite an achievement given the ride comfort and refinement of the 2004-2008 genus.
Re-calibrated and reengineered suspension components enhance the vehicle's ride quality and handling dynamics while extra sound-deadening measures assure of tomb-like operational silence. On the practical side, the Super Crew cabin has been lengthened six-inches. This has enabled the repositioning of the "B" pillar behind the driver, removing it from his/her peripheral vision. The extra cab length has also enabled flattening of the rear floor, which serves as a vast unimpeded cargo-hold when the rear seat is folded up.
Many other cabin improvements exist, such as redesigned seats that provide greater support and bolstering than before and the availability of premium Sony audio and voice-activated navigation along with Ford's SYNC wireless technology. Most noteworthy is Ford's commitment to occupant protection. The F150 is equipped with a comprehensive array of airbags including side curtain inflatables as standard equipment.
I asked Matt O'Leary just how it was possible to reconcile the juxtaposing expectations of construction site ruggedness with limo-like comfort. Matt described it as a significant challenge but pointed to the seven different F150 trim levels as a means of delivering both, with the ultra-plush Platinum edition serving as the culminating example. He was quick to point out though, that all trim levels regardless of opulence and luxury retain their Ford "Built Tough" capability, which for 2009 is even greater.
photo:Rob Rothwell
Along with an integrated Trailer Brake Controller, the F150 is available with a Tow Haul mode that alters the shift schedule in favor of maintaining peak engine performance and engine-braking capacity. To ease the art of trailer hookup, Ford has centred the rearview camera above the hitch receiver and modified the screen to display pathway markers.
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A number of other conveniences are available with the F150 as well, including a cleverly integrated tailgate step and two recessed side steps to ease access to the tall box. Given the aging demographic and the popularity of this automotive segment with the gray wave, these simple but useful assists are wise additions.
The wide range of F150 applications include many family-related uses. In addition to being praised for their utility, modern pickup trucks are expected to carry families in sublime comfort and safety. According to Matt, the 2009 F150 eclipses its previous generation in these areas as well, which is quite an achievement given the ride comfort and refinement of the 2004-2008 genus.
Re-calibrated and reengineered suspension components enhance the vehicle's ride quality and handling dynamics while extra sound-deadening measures assure of tomb-like operational silence. On the practical side, the Super Crew cabin has been lengthened six-inches. This has enabled the repositioning of the "B" pillar behind the driver, removing it from his/her peripheral vision. The extra cab length has also enabled flattening of the rear floor, which serves as a vast unimpeded cargo-hold when the rear seat is folded up.
Many other cabin improvements exist, such as redesigned seats that provide greater support and bolstering than before and the availability of premium Sony audio and voice-activated navigation along with Ford's SYNC wireless technology. Most noteworthy is Ford's commitment to occupant protection. The F150 is equipped with a comprehensive array of airbags including side curtain inflatables as standard equipment.
I asked Matt O'Leary just how it was possible to reconcile the juxtaposing expectations of construction site ruggedness with limo-like comfort. Matt described it as a significant challenge but pointed to the seven different F150 trim levels as a means of delivering both, with the ultra-plush Platinum edition serving as the culminating example. He was quick to point out though, that all trim levels regardless of opulence and luxury retain their Ford "Built Tough" capability, which for 2009 is even greater.
photo:Rob Rothwell
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