2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty

New option packages top the list of changes for the 2006 Ford F-350 Super Duty, the one-ton pickup that rests on a stronger platform and stiffer suspension than the regular F-150. Available in workhorse XL (comes with a radio and not much else), XLT (power features and CD player), or Lariat trim (leather seats, foglights, and power driver's seat), the 2006 F-350 Super Duty comes with either rear-wheel drive or shift-on-the-fly four-wheel drive, as a Regular two-door cab, extended four-door SuperCab, or four-door Crew Cab. Each trim can be equipped with a 6.5-foot or 8-foot cargo bed. Although a 5.4-liter, 300-hp V8 comes standard, the most popular engine is a 6.0-liter, 325-hp/570 ft-lbs of torque turbodiesel V8. There is also a 6.8-liter, 362-hp V10. All are paired with a standard 6-speed manual or optional 5-speed shiftable automatic with a tow/haul mode. ABS brakes and dual front airbags are standard, but there are no safety ratings for the F-350 because of its size.

For 2006, the Lariat trim adds a trip computer, dual-zone climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror to its standard equipment. A new Amarillo Package combines bright yellow paint, aluminum wheels, and chrome exterior trim with black leather seats. A Chrome Package for the XLT and Lariat is exactly how it sounds -- chrome adorns the front grille and bumper, tow hooks, cargo bed tie-downs, tubular step rails, and the exhaust pipe. As you move up through the trim levels, the workhorse truck becomes increasingly luxurious and passenger-oriented, while maintaining its muscle and heft.

Despite its behemoth-like size, the 2006 F-350 Super Duty has a surprisingly tight turning radius, thanks to front coil springs. Drivers are happy with its 4-wheel-drive performance, and they love the interior space. Most often they praise the truck's engine power and hauling capabilities and say the optional electronic trailer brake is a must-have. Other than its abysmal gas mileage, drawbacks include bland interior materials and lackluster uphill acceleration.