With an ideal mix of power, brawn and refinement, the 2011 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a top pick for a heavy-duty truck.
To get that 21,600-pound max tow rating, though, you'll need to opt for the new 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 that pumps out 400 hp and a colossal 800 lb-ft of torque (versus the previous 350 hp and 650 lb-ft). Both engines get a new six-speed automatic transmission and Ford says fuel economy has improved as well.
Compared to the competition, the Ford Super Duty line is noticeably quieter, with wind and road noise pleasantly silenced. Even the trademark diesel clatter has been reduced to barely detectable levels.
The FX4 Off-Road package is featured on this 4x4 model and includes all-terrain tires, skid plates and upgraded Rancho-brand shocks. It also includes an electronic locking differential and hill descent control.
Other standard features include cruise control, chrome bumpers, four-speaker sound system with a CD player, keyless entry, full power accessories and heated power mirrors with integrated blind-spot mirrors, alloy wheels (single rear wheel), cloth upholstery, rear privacy glass, cupholders, carpet flooring, additional interior power points and an auxiliary audio jack, automatic headlights, a keyless entry code pad, a six-way power driver seat and power-adjustable pedals.
Standard safety features include four-wheel antilock disc brakes, stability control, trailer sway control, hill start assist, front side airbags, front side curtain airbags, SOS post-crash alert system, a passenger airbag deactivation switch and an integrated trailer brake controller.