The full-size portion is packed with excellent options, but one is more popular than the others. The 2023 F-150 remains the must-buy model in this segment, with many advantages over competitors. What’s more, many pickups, including the F-150, have added hybrid powertrains to their lineup. As a result, some consumers are (rightfully) skeptical about it and have some questions. Here are three things you need to know about the powertrain.
What is the F-150 Hybrid Powertrain?
First, the 2023 Ford F-150 is available with a hybrid engine. Accordingly, the full-size truck uses a 3.5-liter PowerBoost hybrid engine that combines a twin-turbo V6 with a 35-kilowatt electric motor. Additionally, customers can pair it with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, but every F-150 Hybrid comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Next up, the unit makes 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. Finally, it averages 25 mpg in the city and on the highway with rear-wheel drive.
It allows towing up to 12,700 lbs. This is like no other version of the truck, and it outperforms most competitors. However, don’t always expect any hybrid pickup to be peak performance. Towing capacity can depend on tonnage, configuration and optional packages. For example, the Max Trailer Tow package improves towing capacity and payload when combined with the SuperCrew cab and long box.
Unfortunately, those interested in ordering a top-of-the-line version of the F-150 Hybrid may not be able to do so. The automaker says some are available, but the long box is not. These absences are due to ongoing global supply chain issues and high demand, causing these features to be sold out almost everywhere.
The PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 outperforms the EcoBoost V6
Besides the hybrid powertrain, the 2023 model is available with a few other options. For example, the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, the 3.3-liter TI-VCT V6, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, and the 5.0-liter TI-VCT V8. While all options are workable depending on your needs, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 comes closest in performance to the hybrid model. How does it compare to the most fuel-efficient powertrain?
HC says the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 makes 400 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. With the power somewhat weaker than the hybrid version, the ride feels just as snappy with either option. Plus, the non-hybrid version can tow up to 14,000 pounds, beating out the PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6. However, as mentioned earlier, towing capacity depends on a number of factors, most of which will make the F-150 more expensive.
What is the price of the 2023 Ford F-150 with a hybrid engine?
Finally, the last thing you need to know about the Ford F-150 hybrid powertrain is the price. The answer isn’t as easy to interpret as the price of one, as hybrid powertrains are available for more than one trim level in the full-size truck lineup. For example, a Lariat model can use the powertrain under its commodity for an additional $3300.
However, with the Standard and Platinum models, it only costs $2,500. Alternatively, you can add the shake to the F-150 for free, which is standard on the Limited trim. For other trims, the hybrid powertrain is not available. Although not much, Ford offers many excellent options that can add up over time, so budget wisely in your build.
| 2023 Ford F-150 trim | Price with a hybrid powertrain |
| lariat | $62,435 |
| jerk | $62,955 |
| King Ranch | $67,160 |
| Platinum | $68,550 |
| Limited | $85,950 |
Things to know about the F-150’s hybrid powertrain
In conclusion, there are several things you need to know about the 2023 Ford F-150 hybrid powertrain. Most importantly, the output, towing capacity, price, and how it compares to the non-hybrid equivalent. Purchasing a reliable full-size truck with this unit under the hood provides similar performance with better fuel economy. If you’re in doubt about getting a no-gas-only truck, there’s no better time to try moving.
