2011 Ford F-150 aims for fuel economy, power

The Ford F-Series has been America's top-selling truck for decades. But in a nod to changing times, Ford is now also focusing on fuel economy for its iconic truck for the 2011 model year.

The F-150, which is offering a V6 again this year, will get 23 mpg on the highway and 16 mpg in city driving using the naturally aspirated, 3.7-liter V6 that makes 302 hp. It works with an upgraded six-speed automatic. The figures are pending final EPA certification and are for the two-wheel configuration.

This engine still puts out 278 lb-ft of torque, critical for the daily grunt most work trucks require, and can tow up 6,100 pounds.

Also impressive is the new 5.0-liter V8, which will get 21 mpg on the highway and 15 mpg in the city. This engine pumps out 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque with 10,000 pounds of towing capacity.

The sexier engines are actually the monster 6.2-liter V8 with a fire-breathing 411 hp and 434 lb-ft of torque, which is underhood in the SVT Raptor, and it's joined by the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6, which makes 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, to complete the F-150's lineup.

The EcoBoost engine arrives in the F-150 early next year; the other three versions will be in showrooms later this year.

"Seventy percent of F-150 customers said better fuel economy is what they'd like improved most in their truck," said Doug Scott, truck group marketing manager. "The 2011 Ford F-150 does exactly that with best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class capability and power, and more powertrain choices to suit their different needs."

By Greg Migliore