2004 Ford F-150 SuperCrew XLT

The XLT trim level is available on every F-150 model. The range is impressive; you can spec your XLT in Regular and SuperCab, 4x2 and 4x4; both Styleside and Flareside; and in SuperCrew 4x2 and 4x4, Styleside only. The SuperCrew, with the 5.4L Triton V-8, and a 3.73:1 rear axle tows up to 9,500 pounds in 4x2 and 9,200 pounds in 4x4 trim. It packs 7,050 pounds of payload in 4x2 mode, and 7,200 pounds with the 4x4 setup.


Overall, the new truck's wheelbase has been stretched six inches, which means there's more legroom in SuperCab and still more in four-door SuperCrew models. Ford leads the space race in the bed area as well. The top edges of each pickup box have been increased by 2.3-inches. Now there's more volume and the deep bed enhances the impressive visual mass of the new truck. Regular Cabs and SuperCabs offer 6 1/2-foot (Styleside or Flairside) beds or 8-foot Stylesides. SuperCabs and SuperCrews also have a 5 1/2-foot Styleside version.

The F-150's thoroughly modern motor offers variable valve timing, and electronic throttle control, along with fuel consumption that's five percent better than last year.

Inside, Ford has upgraded the F-150's interior to a level beyond traditional truck expectations and more reminiscent of a top-line Lincoln. The XLT adds surprising luxury touches and quality materials that'll make you feel you're in a Lincoln, especially if you opt for the SuperCrew. Options include captain's chairs, the "flow-through" console, an overhead rail storage system, and DVD rear seat entertainment, to name a few. Check the option lists and specify your truck to fit your personal requirements.


Ford engineers on our drive made a point of stressing how strong the new F-150 is, in comparison to its predecessor that frankly was no slouch. The improved rigidity (50 percent more rigid than the '03) is due to a rugged new boxed frame that's partially hydro-formed, facilitating Ford's claim that it's fully nine times stronger than that of the old model. The frame is an inch lower this year, and the bumpers have been lowered three inches, so the F-150 is less of a battering ram in a collision with a smaller vehicle. Safety items like two-stage airbags, a collapsible steering column, pyrotechnic pretensioners, three-point belts, and even child safety seat latches are included.


The front suspension is a long-spindle, double wishbone independent setup with meaty aluminum lower A-arms and coil-on shocks. The rear remains a live axle, with broad (three inches in width), straddle-mounted leaf springs, and sturdy tube shocks that are mounted outside the frame for better control of body motion and reduced roll. We followed another F-150 in the challenging off-road, and were impressed with the comfortable ride and un-truck-like body stability through a range of suspension-challenging moguls. 17-inch wheels are standard on XL, XLT, STX and FX4; 18-inch wheels are standard on Lariat and available on FX4's.