2008 Ford F-150 STX Flareside

The STX Flareside represents a step up from the STX among the rear-wheel-drive trims in the F-150 lineup. You get a standard 4.2-liter, 202-hp V6 engine with a standard four-speed automatic transmission. However, unlike the STX, you can upgrade only to the 4.6-liter, 248-hp V8 engine, not the 5.4-liter, 300-hp V8. Otherwise, you do get standard air-conditioning, CD player, and ABS brakes. Options include power door locks and traction control. Maximum towing capacity comes out to 8,000 lbs, or about the same as the STX. In sum, if you need a trim with a cool name and a standard automatic transmission, try the STX Flareside.