When the Ford F-150 pickup truck just isn't enough, it's time to step up to a Super Duty. The first stop in that lineup is the Ford F-250. A meatier, heftier truck, the F-250 has what you need for tougher jobs. In this preview guide, we give you a sneak peek at the 2019 model of the Ford F-250. This Ford is largely unchanged, but brings back everything that you always loved about the F-series of trucks.
What's New for 2019?
The 2019 Ford F-250 carries over from the previous year largely unchanged. There are two differences of note between the 2018 and 2019 model years: a new feature package and new sound system. The Lariat trim offers a new sport package. The Lariat Sport Package includes rear wheel-well liners, a Tough Bed bedliner, blacked-out headlamp surrounds, two plus high-gloss and black painted grille bars, running boards, mirror caps and fender vent surrounds, and 20-inch premium black-painted aluminum wheels. And this truck looks great in black.
Also new this year, a 10-speaker Bang and Olufsen premium audio system replaces the Sony system of previous years. Sound is clearer and more dynamic, with better bass thanks to 4 midwoofers and a subwoofer.
As Strong As Ever
The numbers say it all when it comes to Super Duty trucks. If you're looking for outstanding towing and payload capacity, look no further. The 2019 Ford F-250 can tow up to 18,500 pounds, when properly configured. If you're trailering, you'll be pleased with state-of-the art trailer sway control, which selectively applies the brakes as needed to keep the trailer moving in a straight line. If loading the truck bed is more your style, the F-250 offers a payload capacity of 4,270 pounds. Those numbers are thanks to the Ford F-250's engines. There's the 6.2-liter V8 engine that comes standard and delivers 385 horsepower and 430 lb.-feet of torque. Or there's the more powerful 6.7-liter Powerstroke V8 turbo diesel engine, making 450 horsepower and a pulse-pounding 935 lb.-ft of torque.
Aluminum, Not Just For Kitchen Foil
Ford gave everyone a scare when they announced a few years ago that their Ford F-series trucks would see some of their metal components replaced with aluminum. Today, Ford has proved their step was visionary. What some didn't understand was that this aluminum was an military-grade alloy, strong but light.
One obvious advantage is that each member of the Ford F-series shed some weight. In the case of the Ford F-250, that weight was about 350 pounds. With some wiggle room, Ford was able to make other, more vital parts a little stronger-frame, axles, leaf springs, transfer case, driveline and trailer hitches, to name a few. Also, did you know that aluminum won't rust and is more ding-resistant? That's right, aluminum means your Ford F-250 will look newer, longer. This innovative alloy also holds paint and protective coatings better, meaning your colors won't fade and it'll be even more resistant to wear and tear. Aluminum has proven to be the alloy that keeps on giving.
The 2019 Ford F-250 carries over the abundant improvements Ford has made in recent years. It's a great truck, and will be for years to come.