2016 Ford F-150 Limited: New luxury benchmark

Intent on offering buyers of premium full-size pickups a more elegant and prestigious alternative, Ford is expanding its lineup with a range-topping 2016 F-150 Limited flagship. Positioned above the existing Platinum grade and set to arrive in showrooms this winter, the new F-150 Limited brings back a designation last used on the previous-generation F-150 in 2014. However, this time around, Ford’s ultra-spec hauler matches a bolder presence and greater capability with standard equipment not found on its chief rivals, the 2016 Chevrolet Silverado High Country and Ram 1500 Laramie Limited. "The F-150 Limited sets a new bar for what discerning customers should expect in a high-end truck," said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development, adding that it will offer segment-exclusive technology coupled with "features that improve productivity, convenience and capability with distinctive style."

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Available in Shadow Black, Magnetic, Blue Jeans and White Platinum Metallic tri-coat, the F-150 Limited features unique grille and body-color bumper elements with raised "Limited" lettering on the hood, quad-beam LED headlamps, 22-inch polished aluminum wheels, a panoramic vista roof, power running boards, a selection of bright- and satin-chrome accents — plus chrome front tow hooks on the 4×4 version. In addition to an integrated trailer brake controller and a Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, the Limited comes with a technology package that includes a lane-keeping system, 360-degree camera and dynamic trailer hitch assist while offering Ford’s segment-first Pro Trailer Backup Assist as an option.

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Luxe interior

Inside, the new F-150 Limited has black/Mojave leather set off with eucalyptus wood and brushed aluminum accents. Other cabin highlights include custom gauges, 10-way power front buckets with class-exclusive multi-contour massaging mode, heated rear seats, Ford’s new Sync3 infotainment system with AppLink, a 10-speaker Sony audio setup with HD Radio and a 5-year subscription to SiriusXM Traffic/Travel Link plus a remote tailgate release. As a final touch, the Limited sports a laser-engraved VIN plate on the center console that includes the series production number.

All 2016 Ford F-150 Limited models will be fitted with a 365-horsepower/3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine backed by a 6-speed SelectShift automatic with tow/haul and Sport modes. Four-wheel-drive versions feature a two-speed setup that automatically transitions between 2WD/4WD depending on traction conditions. Official pricing for the new 2016 Ford F-150 Limited won’t be released until closer to the on-sale date, but it’s expected to start around $60,000 with a fully loaded version topping out around $70K.