√Configurator Challenge: Ford F-150

With the Ford F-150 confirmed for an Australian return next year, the Drive team picked the variants they’d spend their (imaginary) money on – including ones not headed for local showrooms.

Customisation is in vogue at the moment, but choice can be seriously confusing. In our configurator challenge, we let the Drive team loose on a manufacturer’s website to create their ideal combination for a certain model.

With the confirmation on Tuesday of the Ford F-150 pick-up’s return to local showrooms in mid-2023, the Drive team built their ideal F-150 from the array of variants available in the US – including the not-for-Australia (yet) Lightning and Raptor.

Let us know what your ideal Ford F-150 would look like in the comments below, and the cars you’d like us to configure next.

Sam Purcell, Off-Road Editor

While the Raptor no doubt tempted me, I went in a different direction this time. Base specification and single-cab body with some glorious steel wheels.

Made better by four-wheel drive, a locking rear differential and a 5.0-litre V8, this F-150 is a relative bargain at $US42,000 ($AU56,000). Perhaps there is a little extra in my imaginary kitty for some upgraded suspension and an aftermarket exhaust system. Nothing too loud; a satisfying burble would be lovely.

Emma Notarfrancesco, Senior Journalist

I chose the F-150 Limited finished in Agate Black Metallic paint. It’s powered by the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission – like models bound for Australia.

Exterior additions include the retractable tonneau pickup box cover, while inside I specified the Max Recline driver and passenger seats, along with the fold-out work table. Being the Limited variant, most items I wanted were already included as standard.

In the way of accessories, I added the racks and carriers, fender flares, a paint protection package, trim kit and a roll-out camping bed. It will all set me back $AU115,600.

Tom Fraser, Journalist

I’ve opted for the F-150 Lariat which suits its big butch look much better than the XLT. My specification is finished in the smart Atlas Blue metallic colour and selects 18-inch machine-faced wheels with all-terrain tyres. I’ve also selected the FX4 off-road package because it elevates the look just a little bit tougher.

I’m surprised I’m having to specify a 360-degree camera from the options list for such a huge dual-cab ute, but here we are. I imagine you definitely need one to manoeuvre the big Yank through tight Melburnian streets. Here’s hoping it becomes standard-fit on Aussie-spec cars!

Alex Misoyannis, Journalist

There might be a dizzying array of F-150 variants to choose from, but only one would really make me feel satisfied I’ve nabbed a good deal: the base F-150 Lightning Pro EV.

Priced from $US39,974 ($AU53,100) before dealer destination charges and options, it’s only a few thousand more than a base petrol-powered XL – yet scores an electric powertrain, more kit and a dual-cab body as standard (though only 370km of range).

I’ve kept my options to a minimum (not that there are many to pick from anyway): no-cost Agate Black paint to hide the ‘poverty pack’ black plastic grille, an easy-access step in the tailgate for $US430, and a spray-in tub liner for $US595.

All up, it’s $US42,694 drive-away ($AU57,000). That’s less than half the price of a flagship F-150 Lightning Premium – but good luck justifying that it’s twice as much ‘car’ (and for $US90,000, I’d rather a Rivian…).

Which Ford F-150 configuration is your favourite? Spec your own on Ford website, here.

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