If you happen to be the owner of a business whose profits hinge on towing and hauling, there’s a pretty good chance there’s a standard or heavy-duty truck in your fleet. There’s also a pretty good chance that it’s a Ford Super Duty. The F-250, F-350, and F-450 are some of Canada’s most popular models in the three-quarter and one-ton capacity segment, and after a notable mechanical update for 2015, they carry over into 2016 mostly unchanged other than a couple of new options geared towards fleet buyers.
A new four-corner LED strobe light kit is now available right from the factory. There’s also a new rearview camera prep kit for models that are ordered without a bed. This is especially handy as it allows for seamless integration into the vehicle’s available display audio system. Elsewhere the vehicles get a stronger rapid-heat cab heater, which will no doubt be welcome during the winter months.
Two new colours also join the range: Shadow Black, and Race Red.
The base engine on the F-250 Super Duty is a 6.2-litre V8 engine that produces 385 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Those who regularly tow or haul heavy loads often consider the diesel option, and in the case of the F-250 it’s a 6.7-litre PowerStroke V8 which has just been updated to produce 440 hp and 860 lb-ft of torque. So equipped, it maxes out at 6,350 kg on a conventional hitch, but can tow a maximum of 7,530 kg when a fifth-wheel hitch is installed. Max payload ranges between 1,306 kg and 1,833 kg. Both engines drive either the rear or all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.
As with the F-150, there are plenty of choices when it comes to cab, box, and trim levels. The regular cab (two door) is available exclusively with an 8’ bed, while the SuperCab (extended, with rear-hinged doors) and SuperCrew (crew cab) can be ordered with a 6’8” bed or an 8’ bed. There are plenty of factory-order features that make the F-250 a customer favourite including a transmission power take-off to drive ancillary devices for snow plows or tow trucks, fifth-wheel trailer hitch, integrated side steps and tailgate handle, integrated accessory switches, bed extenders, and different bed liners.
Although Ford has updated the F-250 numerous times over the course of its lifespan, the 2016 model year is starting to look and feel a bit dated, especially when compared to its rivals. While solidly built and loaded with plenty of storage spots, as well as a comprehensive instrument cluster, the materials aren’t as nice. No qualms about equipment level though – especially with range-topping trims like the Lariat and King Ranch.
In terms of infotainment, the F-250 Super Duty can be fitted with the MyFord Touch system, though it’s been optimized with larger traditional buttons. The screen, at eight inches across is large, and easy to navigate. The setup also offers dual USB ports and an SD card reader, too. Sync voice-activated controls are standard on XLT trims and up.
Pricing for the F-250 Super Duty XL starts at $36,745, while the Platinum trim kicks off at $67,399.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
