Ford Powers Up Super Duty Pickups

Ford Motor Co. is giving its line of Super Duty pickup trucks (F-250, F-350 and F-450) a mid-cycle makeover that includes more powerful engines, a new transmission, a host of driver-assist technologies and updated styling.

The 2020 models will be introduced this autumn. Ford redesigned the Super Duty trucks for the 2017 model year, when the vehicles moved to a lightweight aluminum body.

The engine lineup will include three V-8 mills: the base 6.2-liter unit, a new 7.3-liter engine and an updated 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel. Without providing any details, Ford boasts that the engines will provide increased power and best-in-class payload and towing capabilities.

The new 7.3-liter V-8 has an overhead valve configuration with a cast-iron block and forged steel crankshaft. A compressed natural-gas conversion is optional.

The third-generation V-8 diesel gets a stronger cylinder head, block, connecting rods and bearings. The 36,000-psi fuel injection system features new injectors that Ford says can precisely meter and spray up to eight times per stroke to optimize combustion and reduce noise levels.

All of the engines will mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission, in place of the current 6-speed gearbox. Adapted from the 10-speed unit used in the F-150 full-size pickup, the new gearbox helps enhance towing capabilities.

Ford says the Super Duty will be the only vehicle in the segment to offer live-drive power takeoff, which allows the operator to engage industrial equipment and accessories such as snowplows while the vehicle is in motion. An optional pro-trailer backup assist (left) system—also available on the F-150—features a rearview camera that can be adapted to various trailer styles, including fifth-wheel and gooseneck variants.

Styling changes include a revised grille, headlights, taillights and bumpers. Up-level models get interior enhancements, such as decorative trim and wood paneling.

Among the available driver-assist features are pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist and blind spot monitoring. Other goodies include wi-fi for as many as 10 devices, an embedded 4G LTE modem, USB ports and wireless smartphone charging.