Throughout the years, the Ford F-150 has lived up to its reputation as one of the most powerful full-size pickups. Its towing capacity is higher than ever, and shoppers can now get a 700-hp V8 under the Raptor R’s hood. This truck’s impressive performance specs don’t go unnoticed, but the 2023 Ford F-150 shines for another reason.

The 2023 Ford F-150 abounds with tech features

The 2023 F-150’s infotainment system is a standout. The base trim comes with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, but most reviewers recommend upgrading to a model with the 12-inch unit. It’s a standard feature in all F-150 trims except the XL and XLT. 

That screen also pairs paired with a 12-inch digital gauge cluster, and both are user-friendly. Ford says the Sync 4 system has double the processing power of Sync 3, allowing for improved voice commands and less input lag. The 12-inch touchscreen also has a turn-by-turn navigation feature with sharp graphics. 

No matter the screen size, every Ford F-150 trim has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The standard safety suite includes forward collision warning, lane departure warning, rear parking sensors, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. 

Higher trims add a built-in power generator supplying up to 7.2 kWh of electricity. Other upgrades include a wireless charging pad, a Bang & Olufsen stereo with up to 18 speakers, and several attractive driver’s aids. BlueCruise, which offers hands-free highway acceleration and braking, is standard on the Limited trim.

The 2023 F-150 also earns high praise for its interior, both in quality and layout. Visibility is excellent from every angle, and the seats have many adjustability options, which only improve on higher trims. In addition to heating and ventilation, some F-150 models offer patented Max Recline seats.

Exploring the 2023 F-150’s powertrain options

Edmunds reviewers appreciate the 2023 Ford F-150’s engine options, beginning with the base 290-hp V6. It can tow 8,200 pounds without enhancements. Depending on the cargo box size, this truck’s payload capacity can reach almost 2,000 pounds. The Ford F-150’s towing and payload capacities max out at 14,000 and 3,225 pounds.

Test drivers got to experience the new hybrid powertrain, a twin-turbo V6 boasting 400 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque. Though the F-150 Hybrid lacks refinement in some areas, it’s still one of the fastest electrified trucks. Ford offers two other EcoBoost engines, one of which is reserved for the Raptor trim.

Either the Raptor or Raptor R is an excellent choice for off-roading enthusiasts, though the former is slightly more attainable at $76,755. The latter retails for over $100,000 thanks to its supercharged V8. The F-150 Raptor packs a 450-hp V6 with four-wheel-drive. Fox racing shocks, off-road cruise control, and a five-link rear suspension are also standard.

In addition, every Ford F-150 promises a relatively quiet interior, strong brakes, and balanced handling. The base suspension might be too harsh for some drivers, but the range-topping Limited has an adaptive setup.

Is the F-150 the perfect truck?

Despite its many benefits, the 2023 Ford F-150 has a few drawbacks. For instance, the onboard generator produces some annoying sounds and physical vibrations from the hybrid engine. In addition, Edmunds wishes for large storage cubbies inside the cab. Plus, the F-150 doesn’t have a multi-function tailgate, although the available work surface is a nice touch.

Flaws aside, the 2023 F-150’s engine variety and utility capacities are unmatched even by the likes of Ram and Chevy. Surprisingly, this truck’s technology is arguably its best aspect (for some drivers), but we’re certainly not complaining.