F-150 - Reviews the F-150 with the 5.4 liter V8

Redesigned in 1995 and sold as a 1996 model, the newly designed F-150 was definitely an improvement over its predecessors. For the 2002 model year, the F-150 supercab comes in a variety of different models; the XL, the XLT, and the Lariat models. Ford's F-150 pickup is currently America's best-selling truck and the fact that it carries the Ford nameplate is probably not the reason (Ford’s are not the most noted for reliability). So, why is it the best selling truck? The F-150 offers the brute strength of a traditional pickup, yet is equipped with superior comfort and convenience options most often found in luxury cars.


Driving Impressions:

My test F-150 was a Lariat Stylside Supercab. Though a 202 horsepower SOHC 4.2-liter V6 is its base engine, my test truck came with the 260 horsepower SOHC 5.4 liter Triton V8. This particular engine definitely adds some needed power over the anemic base engine. Step on the throttle and the F-150 does an excellent job moving from the light. While not as fast as some of the offerings from Chevy, Ford definitely has the edge when it comes to engine refinement. Also, the 5.4-liter V8 is only available with a smooth shifting 4-speed automatic. Unlike many automatics equipped in Ford trucks, I found the 2002 F-150's auto transmission to be very smooth, helping this truck get the most out of its 260 horses.

It seems that with each passing design, the F-150 becomes more car-like; this is a good thing. The 5.4-liter Triton V8 is very quiet, refined, and offers plenty of low down torque making light work of steep hills and passing those giant 18-wheelers.

Handling & braking are both superb. Driving through the Avenue of the Giants on Old Highway 101 was a snap; equally as easy to tackle as any midsize car.

Interior Innovation:

The interior of the 2002 Ford F-150 is much better than any truck I have driven this year. The "car-like" cabin is comfortable and offers plenty of storage space. There is room for 5 full sized adults and although a little cramped in the back, the front has more than adequate creature space. The seats are very comfortable and supportive. An option in my test truck was tan leather with 8-way power seating. Power everything was also included. The stock stereo system was very clear sounding. Ergonomics are just about perfect! You will be pleasantly surprised just how well everything is laid out in the 2002 F-150. I already mentioned amenities, but I want to mention it again; this truck is loaded to the gills! Even with standard equipment, the truck has a cold AC, daytime running lamps, dual airbags, and a plethora of other amenities that are normally just options on other trucks in this class. A 5-speed manual is standard with the lesser engines, but with the 5.4 only a 4- speed automatic is available.

Exterior Innovation:

The exterior has not changed much since its re-introduction in 1995. Which isn’t a bad thing, as I adore the F-150’s physical appearance. There are flush mounted headlights, a locking rear tailgate, and a very rounded body. The grille is chromed with a blue Ford oval smack dab in the middle. Although this design is going on its 7th year, it still looks fresh, even today.

The price of the 2002 Ford F-150 Lariat Supercab, with the 5.4 liter engine, new, would have ran you almost $26,000. Today, these trucks can be had for around $14,000. With the new gas crunch, you should be able to find these trucks for next to nothing. If you want more information on price and reliability check out Cars.Com.

-Happy Car Shopping