Refreshed F150

SPIED: 2018 Ford F-150 Refresh
Ten-Speed Trans, Diesel, and Hybrid Powertrains on Their Way

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Veteran spy aces caught a nearly undisguised facelifted Ford F-150 testing on the company’s test track in Dearborn, Michigan. The truck, due in 2018, will be a subtle refresh on the current F-150 to keep it competitive with upcoming redesigns from Ram and continual improvements to GM’s trucks.

The photos betray an updated grille with a more aggressive trapezoidal appearance, while the disguised tailgate may get a more seamless design. That said, we admit we can’t make much out because of the camouflage. Sources say the grille is inspired by that of the awesome F-150 Raptor due later this year, and we dearly hope Ford will fix the F-150’s pitifully dim taillights.

While cosmetic changes to the already-handsome truck will be somewhat minimal, we expect a fair amount of updating to the F-150’s interior technology and powertrains. We’ve heard and seen evidence there will be a small-displacement diesel on offer, and Ford has suggested a hybrid powertrain is in the works too. There’s no word on whether they’ll be available with four-wheel drive, but it’s likely.

Furthermore, the 10-speed automatic transmission will likely spread to powerplants other than the 3.5L EcoBoost. We’d like to see it matched with that aforementioned diesel to give the F-150 some extra efficiency. Would 32 mpg be too much to ask? We’ll find out early next year, as that’s when we expect to get a look at the updated 2018 F-150.

Truck Trend

I hope to hear more about the diesel's improved emission/EGR design. That plus a 10 speed with lighter weight might be the hot ticket. Looks like they are foregoing the front-end block shape for a more aero friendly wedge shape.

Update/Refresh the look after only 2 years?

Im hoping for a diesel hybrid. That could provide some great mileage and power. Sadly the price would also be high!