Besides a few new trims, the 2023 Ford F-150 hasn’t changed much since its redesign for the 2021 model year. Consumers still love this pickup, and it’s a critic’s pick for the best full-size truck. However, one aspect of the 2023 F-150 disappoints.

Could the 2023 Ford F-150’s interior be better?

Car and Driver reviewers note that fully loaded 2023 Ram 1500 trims are ritzier than their 2023 F-150 counterparts. For instance, all Ford F-150 trims have visible black plastic pieces, cheapening their interiors. (However, each part fits correctly in its place.) The King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited models are the most luxurious trims.

The Ford F-150 King Ranch boasts brown leather seats, adding to the interior’s unique Western aesthetic. Starting with this trim level, the F-150 provides heated seats for both rows and ventilation for front-seat riders. The King Ranch adds adaptive cruise control and a premium audio system. 

The Ford F-150 Platinum has genuine wood trim throughout the cab and active motion massaging seats. And the F-150 Limited’s interior features standard two-tone leather seats with rich blue and slate-gray tones, plus a blue leather-wrapped steering wheel. It’s also the only model with a standard moonroof, BlueCruise, and a trailer backup monitoring system.

Does the 2023 Ford F-150 have any other problems?

Despite the F-150 Limited’s upscale interior, some might think this trim is overpriced at nearly $85,000 to start. The 2023 Ram 1500 Limited Elite retails for a little over $73,000. However, although the Ram comes with a jeweled rotary-style shifter and quilted leather seats, a panoramic sunroof still costs extra.

Some reviews say the 2023 F-150 is awkward to park and maneuver, but that’s most trucks’ typical driving experience. Reviews about its ride quality are mixed. A few critics say the Ram 1500 offers more refinement, while others had no complaints about the F-150’s suspension.

Both of the Ford Raptor trims also get terrible gas mileage, as low as 10/15 mpg city/highway for the Raptor R. Still, some drivers might consider 700 hp and standard four-wheel drive as worthy tradeoffs. This model also rides on 37-inch wheels, providing over 13 inches of ground clearance.

The F-150’s pros outweigh the cons

While complaints about the F-150’s interior might be justified, it’s still a well-rounded truck. The truck’s powertrain selection — comprising several V6s (most with hybrid technology) and V8s — is admirable. All offer great acceleration, but the 400-hp twin-turbo V6 delivers the highest towing capacity. 

Depending on the cab and bed size configuration, trucks with that engine can tow 14,000 pounds. The 2023 F-150 also has a maximum payload capacity of 3,325 pounds, but only with an eight-ft bed and the Regular Cab. The SuperCrew cab is probably the best for families, with its full-size doors and generous legroom.

Shoppers who balk at either Raptor trim’s price can optimize the Ford F-150 for off-roading through several packages. Even the XL can get in on the action with the Rattler package, adding an electronic locking differential and off-road shocks. And to prioritize fuel efficiency, the F-150 Hybrid gets up to 25 mpg combined and can still pull 12,700 pounds.

In addition, U.S. News highlights the 2023 Ford F-150’s intuitive infotainment interface, available with an 8.0-inch or 12.0-inch touchscreen. Every menu has a logical layout, and smartphone integration is standard across the lineup. Regardless of the trim level (or any personal qualms about the interior), the Ford F-150 also offers comfortable seating for every rider.