Still "Ford Tough" but More Refined and Capable
Edmonton, Alberta - When the launch of a new product is presided over by the recently appointed President of Ford Motor Company of Canada, Mr. Barry Engle, it's clearly an occasion taken seriously by the builder of the world's most popular pickup. "We've listened to our customers - we understand who they are and what they want," said Engle during his introductory words to a collection of auto journalists.
Taking us on a guided tour of the 2009 F150 was the team's Chief Engineer, Mr. Matt O'Leary. Drenched in enthusiasm for the vehicle, Matt told me that he has been with the F150 program for all of his 31-years with Ford. His pride for the product, which continues to be the best selling pickup in Canada, was unrestrained as he explained his team's commitment to the F150's enduring success. "Our team is about pride and keeping the winning going," he affirmed like the coach of an undefeated pro ball team.
Based on our close examination and pointed scrutiny of the new F150, I'll put my money on the winning team's continued success. According to Matt, every aspect of the 2004-2008 F150 has been assessed evaluated and improved upon in the 2009 model. "We took an inside-out approach, leaving nothing untouched - everything is new."
Visually, customers wanted a tougher-looking truck, and they've got it. The 2009 F150 exhibits a higher hoodline, a more prominent grille and a taller box. Customers also sought increased towing and hauling ability. Gone is the unpopular V6 engine. The 2009 engine lineup features greater fuel efficiency and higher output. Two of the three V8 mills are new, featuring 3-valve per cylinder technology while displacing 4.6 and 5.4 litres respectively. (Horsepower and economy ratings TBA).
The two new powerplants are mated to a sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission, specific to truck use. The new autobox is credited with improving acceleration, fuel economy and towing capability. The transmission can be downshifted up to two gears when descending by simply tapping the brake pedal. This eliminates the need to remove a hand from the steering wheel, which will undoubtedly be appreciated by anyone towing a trailer down a winding road.
Edmonton, Alberta - When the launch of a new product is presided over by the recently appointed President of Ford Motor Company of Canada, Mr. Barry Engle, it's clearly an occasion taken seriously by the builder of the world's most popular pickup. "We've listened to our customers - we understand who they are and what they want," said Engle during his introductory words to a collection of auto journalists.
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| Matt O'Leary, 2009 F-150 Chief Engineer. |
Taking us on a guided tour of the 2009 F150 was the team's Chief Engineer, Mr. Matt O'Leary. Drenched in enthusiasm for the vehicle, Matt told me that he has been with the F150 program for all of his 31-years with Ford. His pride for the product, which continues to be the best selling pickup in Canada, was unrestrained as he explained his team's commitment to the F150's enduring success. "Our team is about pride and keeping the winning going," he affirmed like the coach of an undefeated pro ball team.
Based on our close examination and pointed scrutiny of the new F150, I'll put my money on the winning team's continued success. According to Matt, every aspect of the 2004-2008 F150 has been assessed evaluated and improved upon in the 2009 model. "We took an inside-out approach, leaving nothing untouched - everything is new."
Visually, customers wanted a tougher-looking truck, and they've got it. The 2009 F150 exhibits a higher hoodline, a more prominent grille and a taller box. Customers also sought increased towing and hauling ability. Gone is the unpopular V6 engine. The 2009 engine lineup features greater fuel efficiency and higher output. Two of the three V8 mills are new, featuring 3-valve per cylinder technology while displacing 4.6 and 5.4 litres respectively. (Horsepower and economy ratings TBA).
The two new powerplants are mated to a sophisticated 6-speed automatic transmission, specific to truck use. The new autobox is credited with improving acceleration, fuel economy and towing capability. The transmission can be downshifted up to two gears when descending by simply tapping the brake pedal. This eliminates the need to remove a hand from the steering wheel, which will undoubtedly be appreciated by anyone towing a trailer down a winding road.
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