Ford F-Series hauls heavy duty

Pickup trucks helped build America. From back lots to boulevards, this rolling workhorse is a lifestyle icon that hauls the next-generation of truck utility and technology to market.

For 33 consecutive years, Ford F-Series has been the best-selling truck in America. And helping to carry its share of the cargo and people is the 2011 F250 Super Duty 4X4 Crew Cab, priced at $44,095.

The American automaker's "Built Ford Tough" credo stands up to its blue oval reputation as the 2011 Ford F250 Super Duty pickup truck builds a massive 735 foot-pounds of torque from its 6.7-liter, Power Stroke, turbo-diesel V8 engine.

Super Duty's 390 horsepower turbo-diesel power plant is a $7,835 upgrade over the standard F250 6.2-liter, gasoline V8 engine.

"Ford F250 Super Duty is popular with area farmers and consumers in the construction trades," said Brian Bolton, sales representative for Smith Ford in Lowell. "The Crew Cab holds five adult passengers and is by far our best-selling body style. Some buyers will flip the split rear seat down to carry their pets."

According to Bolton, the Ford F250 Crew Cab can also be equipped for six-passenger capacity with an available three-person front bench seat, which eliminates the center console and places its standard six-speed automatic transmission shift lever on the steering column.

Our test truck came with a FX4 off-road package and available four-wheel drive that measures ground clearance of 8.5 inches at the axles. Under carriage skid-plates are part of the $295 FX4 package.

Up top, full-handle grab bars at the windshield and door pillars offer a leg up to the cab. Optional side step-rails would ease the climb into the cab. However, they likely would hinder the effectiveness of the truck's off-road maneuverability.

Cabin amenities are pleasing with attractive soft touch leather appointments throughout. Front captain's seats are wide and comfortably cushioned to handle a full day in the cab. Switches and dials are easily managed while wearing gloves.