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The most popular pick in the F-Series lineup, the Ford F-150 Styleside 2WD has
long been an American standard in the truck industry. As the model that other
maker's imitated, the F-150 features a chiseled exterior with an aggressive
front end. With a number of major changes taking place through the years, the
Ford F-150 Styleside has consistently remained one of America's bestselling
pickup trucks on the market.
It was not until the sixth generation of the F-Series in 1975 that the F-150 was
released to comply with newly established emissions ratings. The half-ton pickup
was fitted with a range of V8 engines and had a classic boxy exterior. The
F-Series' seventh generation (second generation for the F-150) started off with
a bang with a complete makeover, including a more streamlined profile and the
addition of several new V8 engine options. The Styleside and Flareside bed
styles were included as well. Styleside refers to flat bed sides with interior
wheel wells, while Flareside features protruding wheel wells that provide extra
usable space within the bed. Though through the years the F-150's Styleside
badging has come and gone and come again, the truck bed has always been
available with streamlined sides.
With several V6 options introduced in the eighth generation, the model gained
improved fuel efficiency and a wider audience. Though 4WD was available, the
F-150's 2WD trim was most popular with consumers. The traditional squared frame
was still intact with a few minor tweaks like redesigned headlamps and a more
contemporary front bumper. The next generation brought a more aerodynamic
exterior and a turbodiesel engine model.
A complete redesign of the F-150 Styleside 2WD took place in 1997. The profile
had curvier lines, while the interior gained a number of technological
advancements. However, consumers were quickly alerted by the media that the
F-150 was given a poor rating from IIHS for frontal crash testing. Though sales
slumped mildly, Ford corrected the problems, and the F-150 has received top
ratings ever since.
The 2004 model year brought about a new platform for the Ford F-150 Styleside
2WD and the exterior was given a more chiseled, muscular appearance. New Triton
engine choices were introduced, while several automatic transmission options
became available as well. Upcoming for the F-150 is the induction of a hybrid
edition that will be the first ever plug-in hybrid truck on the market. Critics
are already raving about the maker's eco-consciousness, but also about the
potential for 41 MPG in a full-size pickup. |
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