Ford boasts that it has the best selling full size pickups for nearly the last three decades. The 2003 Ford F150 is part of that history and the last year of the very rounded front end body style first manufactured in 1996. These trucks are hailed by owners for their reliability and quality engineering. One of the greatest highlights of these pickups is the optional Triton V8 engine on some models that is one of the most powerful smooth ride producing powerhouses on the market. The '03 model comes with a few new body styles and cab sizes.
Regular cab models still have only 2 doors while extended cabs now come with 2 hinged doors in the rear that can only be opened when the front doors are open. Super Crew Cab models have 2 independent opening doors for rear passengers. There is also more room for passengers inside both the extended and super crew cab 2003 Ford F150 compared with previous model years. Inside quality is decent with a curvaceous style that resembles to the motif of the outer body style. The seats are very comfortable for drivers and passengers allowing for a wide range of positions. Also to improve ride quality there are improved sound deadening materials that practically eliminate road noise for inside occupants.
Trim packages offered are the XL, XLT, STX, and Fx4. Consumers looking for a basic work truck minus all the extra frills and expense should consider the basic XL. There aren't a whole lot in available features, but that doesn't detract from the overall quality. Most XL models are 2 wheel drive and are equipped with the smaller V6 engine and come with manual windows and door locks. Stepping up in style is the XLT trim package. These models come with a great selection of interior fabrics, AC, power windows, remote keyless entry, CD players, and other optional features. STX models mark the high-end package with chrome exterior accents, 2 tone body colors. Also on the STX is a performance tuned suspension system. Those who are looking for a more off-road oriented truck must consider the Fx4 package. These have raised bodies, custom Bilstein shocks, and skid plates.
For engines the 2003 Ford F150 comes with a 4.2 liter V6 on the basic models and some other upper level trims with only 2 wheel drive. The two V8 engines are either a 4.6 liter and 5.4 liter. The only transmission offered for the 5.4 liter is a 5 speed automatic, while the others come with either a manual or automatic. 5.4 liter V8s produce 380 horsepower which is one of the most powerful in the entire full size pickup class. All models come with either a 6.5 or 8 ft cargo bed.
Fuel consumption ranges from 14 mpg to 20 mpg depending upon the engine and package selected. Generally the smaller the engine and body the better the gas mileage, while the larger V8 gets the worst fuel consumption of the group. Compared with the Chevy Silverado the F150 gets just about exactly the same fuel economy for comparable models.
