2018 Ford F-150 debuts in Detroit with diesel and tech upgrades
Ford has unveiled the refreshed 2018 F-150 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show, introducing a diesel engine option and new safety and connectivity features.
Ford has introduced the updated 2018 F-150 at the 2017 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, bringing a diesel engine to its best-selling pickup for the first time, alongside new styling, expanded safety technology and enhanced connectivity.
The most notable mechanical change is the addition of a 3.0-litre Power Stroke V6 turbodiesel, set to be available later in 2017. Ford pairs this new diesel with its 10-speed automatic transmission, aiming to improve both towing performance and fuel economy. The full engine line-up for 2018 also includes a new 3.3-litre V6 petrol unit, rated at 282hp and 253lb ft, which replaces the previous 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 as the entry point. Ford's two EcoBoost engines (2.7-litre and 3.5-litre V6) and the 5.0-litre V8 also receive updates and are now equipped with the 10-speed automatic as standard. Auto stop-start becomes standard across all powertrains.
Visual changes and trim options
Ford has refreshed the F-150’s appearance with a new grille design that extends into the headlamp clusters, echoing the larger Super Duty trucks. The LED running lights now feature a double C-clamp motif. Buyers will have a choice of seven different grilles, six new wheel designs and three new tailgate appliqués, broadening the truck’s customisation options.
Technology and safety upgrades
The 2018 F-150 brings several new safety features to the segment. Pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality are now available. These systems are designed to reduce accident risk in urban and motorway driving. Ford also upgrades connectivity with integrated 4G LTE Wi-Fi, supporting up to 10 devices, and introduces a B&O Play premium audio system. Compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included.
What the changes mean for buyers and Ford
The new diesel option is aimed at buyers who need higher towing capacity and better fuel economy, particularly in fleet and commercial use. The continued move to aluminium construction and advanced technology keeps the F-150 competitive against newer rivals. For Ford, these updates help maintain its position in the crucial US pickup market, where the F-Series has led sales for decades.
The 2018 F-150 will reach US dealers later in 2017. Pricing and full technical details for the diesel variant will be released closer to launch.
2018 Ford F-150 engine line-up at a glance
| Engine | Power | Torque | Transmission | Notable features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.3-litre V6 petrol | 282hp | 253lb ft | 6- or 10-speed automatic | New base engine, standard stop-start |
| 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6 | TBA | TBA | 10-speed automatic | Updated, standard stop-start |
| 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 | TBA | TBA | 10-speed automatic | Standard stop-start |
| 5.0-litre V8 petrol | TBA | TBA | 10-speed automatic | Updated for 2018, standard stop-start |
| 3.0-litre Power Stroke V6 diesel | TBA | TBA | 10-speed automatic | New for 2018, diesel debut |
