Ford F-350 Super Duty Review

2008 Ford F-350 Super Duty XLT Regular Cab Shown

Sometimes, a regular coffee just won't do it. You need something on the order of a double cappuccino to get the job done -- something with more kick, more muscle. For pickup truck buyers needing a similar boost, there's the Ford F-350 Super Duty.

More robust than even the capable F-250, the Ford F-350 Super Duty is fit for extreme grunt work thanks to the availability of a dual rear-wheel setup (commonly called a "dually") that greatly improves stability when towing. And like other Super Duties, the F-350 is available with a wide choice of body styles (regular cab, extended cab, crew cab), powertrain options and trim levels to choose from. Another reason that Ford's heavy hauler is a fave is that it can handle massive payloads while also being easy to drive and comfortable to ride in.

Recent improvements to the Ford F-350 Super Duty have yielded a stronger turbodiesel V8, even better ride and handling dynamics and a redesigned cabin with higher-quality materials. Still, there are a few other choices to consider, as Chevy and Dodge also offer worthy choices in this powerhouse field.

Current Ford F-350 Super Duty

The Ford F-350 Super Duty is available in three body styles (regular cab, extended cab, crew cab) and four trim levels (base XL, midlevel XLT, off-road-oriented 4WD-only FX4 and plush Lariat). Many options are available to further customize the F-350, including the special King Ranch, Harley-Davidson and Cabela's packages.

A dual-rear-wheel setup is offered as well, which allows more weight to be carried in the bed as well as providing greater stability while towing a heavy trailer. Inside the cab are high-quality materials and a load of niceties, including available leather upholstery, Ford's latest high-tech navigation system and the Sync electronics interface.

A trio of engines sees duty in the F-350 Super Duty: the standard 5.4-liter V8 (300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque), an optional 6.8-liter V10 (362 hp and 457 lb-ft) and the 6.4-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 (350 hp and 650 lb-ft.) Transmission choices consist of a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic. Buyers can choose either two- or four-wheel drive across the board.

In reviews, we've found much to like about the F-350, commenting favorably about its refined ride and handling and high feature content. One downside to this Ford is the base V8's lack of power relative to competing trucks' base V8s.

Used Ford F-350 Super Duty Models

The Ford F-350 Super Duty was last redesigned for the 2008 model year. Compared to earlier F-350s, it has revised styling, a stronger frame, better handling dynamics, a nicer interior and an improved turbodiesel engine. First-year F-350s lacked Sync and the Cabela's package.

The previous generation Ford F-350 Super Duty ran from 1999-2007. The debut of this version marked the first time that Ford gave its heavy-duty pickups their own style. Compared to the soft contours of the F-150 of the time, the angular Super Duty with its massive grille looked every bit the square-jawed brute that lay under the skin.

Initially, the typical trim levels of base XL, decently equipped XLT and plush Lariat were offered in standard-, extended- and crew-cab body styles. Engine choices included the standard 5.4-liter V8 as well as the optional 6.8-liter V10 and 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8. A five-speed manual was standard, with a four-speed automatic optional.

If you're looking for a used Ford F-350 Super Duty, there are a few year-by-year changes to be aware of. In 2001, updates were made that included standard four-wheel ABS for all trims, an available reverse parking sensor, heated seats for the Lariat and more power for the Power Stroke engine. The following year brought a six-speed manual, new seats and the option of power-adjustable pedals.

For 2003, the FX4 off-road package debuted, as did (for crew cabs) an optional power moonroof and the King Ranch edition. A smaller yet more powerful 6.0-liter Power Stroke replacing the 7.3-liter version debuted that year as well. The 6.0-liter diesel engine, however, has a reputation for questionable reliability. For 2005, the big news was a new five-speed automatic transmission, an upgraded front suspension, a new grille and headlight design and increased towing and hauling capacities. The next few years saw just minor changes to feature and package availability.

In a review that pitted this generation Ford F-350 Super Duty against its Chevy and Dodge rivals, the Ford placed second. The F-350's chief strengths included a refined ride and competent handling and braking. Demerits were given for behind-the-pack performance when towing an 8,600-pound trailer and the cabin's lack of storage and odd mix of cheap plastics and upscale trim.

Previous to 1999, the F-350 (it wasn't called the Super Duty yet) was visually virtually indistinguishable from the F-150. However, with available muscle that included a 7.3-liter V8 and the Power Stroke turbodiesel, it was obviously up to much more demanding towing and hauling tasks.

SELECT A SPECIFIC FORD F-350 SUPER DUTY MODEL YEAR*

* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.