Ford F-150 Lariat is a gentleman’s pickup truck

The Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew is the favourite Canadian pickup truck

The Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew I drove had heated/ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, power telescoping steering, full leather interior and all the modern conveniences and goodies you’d find in an upscale sedan. It also seats six adults comfortably and has a huge power sunroof

By any measure, Ford’s F-150 pickup line has been a legendary success. Introduced in 1948, it has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for the last 30-odd years, the best-selling pickup truck since 1977, and the best-selling vehicle in Canada for decades.

The F-150’s reputation and success are unparalleled. It’s a brand that has secured its place in the American economy, surpassing even icons like Nike and Coca-Cola in terms of recognition.

The 2018 F-150 comes in a staggering variety of trim levels, models, and drivetrain combos. From bare-bones work trucks to luxury haulers like the Lariat SuperCrew, there’s an F-150 for every need. The Lariat SuperCrew, one of the most opulent versions, combines utility with luxury, making it a standout in Ford’s lineup.

Let’s get to the price: today, a used 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew in Canada costs between $45,000 and $55,000, depending on mileage, condition, and additional features. This is still a significant investment but offers a substantial discount from the original new price.

Despite the high cost, the 2018 F-150 Lariat SuperCrew is a pleasure to drive. The vehicle I drove was powered by a 2.7-litre turbocharged V6, producing 325 horsepower and 400 foot-pounds of torque. Unlike most in the F-150 lineup, its engine is cast iron and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and on-demand four-wheel drive, accessed via a rotary dial. It runs on regular gas, boasting a combined fuel economy of 10.6 litres/100 km in two-wheel drive and 11.3 litres/100 km in four-wheel drive.

However, this truck isn’t a rough-and-ready off-road beast. While it can handle rough terrain, it’s designed more for comfort and light hauling. The Lariat SuperCrew features heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, power telescoping steering, a full leather interior, and all the conveniences you’d find in an upscale sedan. It seats six adults comfortably and includes a massive power sunroof.

The ride, though, is a mixed bag. It combines cushion with a certain harshness, taking bumps well but feeling every dimple in the road. This was the least comfortable aspect of the 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat for me.

Another downside is the auto shut-off feature, which turns the engine off at complete stops, leading to a temporary loss of power steering. This can become tiresome, though you can modulate the brake pedal to keep the engine running.

On the plus side, the Lariat features automatic side running boards that deploy for easy access and a rear tailgate step for bed access. These are practical additions that enhance the truck’s usability.

Despite rising gas prices, pickup truck sales in Canada remain strong. Canadians love their trucks, and Ford continues to deliver with the F-150.

At a glance

Engine: 2.7-litre turbocharged V6
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Drive: Fear-wheel drive/four-wheel drive
Horsepower: 325 hp at 5,000 rpm
Torque: 400 foot-pounds at 2,750 rpm
Fuel economy: 11.9 litres/100 km (city) and 9.0 litres/100 km (highway) in two-wheel drive. Regular fuel.

Some alternatives: Honda Ridgeline, Toyota Tundra Crewmax, Nissan Titan, Chev Silverado Custom, Ram 1500, GMC Sierra Denali.

Ted Laturnus has been an automotive journalist since 1976. He has been named Canadian Automotive Journalist Of The Year twice and is past president of the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC).

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