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2020 Ford F-150 vs 2021 Ford F-150

2020 Ford F-150
2020 Ford F-150
$28,745MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Ford F-150
$28,745MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Ford F-150 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these scores, the 2020 Ford F-150 comes out ahead with a higher rating, likely due to its blend of traditional truck virtues and modern capabilities without the teething problems that sometimes accompany new technologies. For buyers looking for a solid, all-around performer, the 2020 model is the recommended choice.

Choose the 2021 Ford F-150 if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • You are looking for the latest in hybrid engine technology with substantial power output.
  • Advanced technology and connectivity are priorities, especially with work-from-truck possibilities.
  • New driver aids and safety features align with your preference for cutting-edge vehicle tech.

Choose the 2020 Ford F-150 if:

Shop Now
8.3of 10overall
  • You value a truck with a timelessly rugged design and robust build quality.
  • You prefer a wide range of engine options without the complexities of new technologies.
  • You seek a truck with proven safety ratings and straightforward, reliable performance.
Overview

MSRP

$28,745

MSRP

$29,290

Average price

$34,786

Average price

$40,836

Listings

5478

Listings

8622
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Interior materials feel cheap
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard

2020 Ford F-150 Reviews Summary

The modern pickup truck has to play the role of commuter car, grocery-getter, long-haul road tripper, and children's shuttle bus. And yet, these trucks still have to tow and haul whatever and whenever you need. The 2020 model year Ford F-150 answers that call by providing an accommodating and modern interior, comfortable road manners, and a lineup of engines that provide the power and torque to help it hold its own at the worksite.

2021 Ford F-150 Reviews Summary

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

No video found
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Engine

3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

4X2

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

3

MPG City

19

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

25

MPG Highway

24
2020 Ford F-150
2020 Ford F-150
$28,745MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2020 Ford F-150
$28,745MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2020 Ford F-150 is 8.3 out of 10, while the 2021 Ford F-150 scores 7.8 out of 10. Based on these scores, the 2020 Ford F-150 comes out ahead with a higher rating, likely due to its blend of traditional truck virtues and modern capabilities without the teething problems that sometimes accompany new technologies. For buyers looking for a solid, all-around performer, the 2020 model is the recommended choice.

Choose the 2021 Ford F-150 if:

Shop Now
7.8of 10overall
  • You are looking for the latest in hybrid engine technology with substantial power output.
  • Advanced technology and connectivity are priorities, especially with work-from-truck possibilities.
  • New driver aids and safety features align with your preference for cutting-edge vehicle tech.

Choose the 2020 Ford F-150 if:

Shop Now
8.3of 10overall
  • You value a truck with a timelessly rugged design and robust build quality.
  • You prefer a wide range of engine options without the complexities of new technologies.
  • You seek a truck with proven safety ratings and straightforward, reliable performance.
Overview
MSRP
$28,745
$29,290
Average price
$34,786
$40,836
Listings
5478
Shop all listings
8622
Shop all listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.3
4.7
Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.8 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Stylish design
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Spacious
Cons
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
  • Interior materials feel cheap
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Summary
The modern pickup truck has to play the role of commuter car, grocery-getter, long-haul road tripper, and children's shuttle bus. And yet, these trucks still have to tow and haul whatever and whenever you need. The 2020 model year Ford F-150 answers that call by providing an accommodating and modern interior, comfortable road manners, and a lineup of engines that provide the power and torque to help it hold its own at the worksite.

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

Video
No video found
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
Drive Train
4X2
4X2
Seating Capacity
3
3
MPG City
19
20
MPG Highway
25
24
Look and feel
2020 Ford F-150
8/10
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
The 2020 Ford F-150 had maintained a stoic design, respected for its straight lines, blocky grille, and understated confidence that resonated with truck owners looking for both flair and utility. The design was sympathetic to traditional truck aesthetics, shunning transient trends for a solid, timeless look. Inside, the truck boasted a functional interior where durability was prioritized over luxury, accommodating hard plastics and comfortable yet sturdy seating that could withstand daily rigors. In contrast, the 2021 Ford F-150 presented a subtle evolution in design, aligning with aerodynamic improvements and exterior styling revisions, including a redesigned front fascia with larger headlights and a rounder grille. Despite these changes, the truck retained its familiar robust look but added modern touches intended to reduce drag and boost efficiency. The interior followed the previous generation’s blueprint but saw upgrades like an optional work surface and more luxurious materials in higher trims.
Performance
2020 Ford F-150
9/10
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
In the 2020 model year, Ford offered a variety of engines in the F-150, including a base 3.3-liter V6, multiple EcoBoost V6 options, a V8, and a Power Stroke diesel, matching diverse power and towing needs, capably delivering up to 12,300 pounds of towing capacity. The 2020 model was equipped with a robust suspension system, providing a ride that was unexpectedly smooth for a full-sized truck, and featured an exceptionally equipped Raptor variant designed for off-road prowess. By 2021, Ford continued with similar powertrains but introduced the PowerBoost hybrid, an innovative addition that combined a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with an electric motor, generating a combined output of 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque. This not only made it the most potent option in the lineup but also expanded the F-150’s appeal to those prioritizing power and efficiency. Despite the hybrid's presence, traditional gas powertrains remained competitive, offering up to 14,000 pounds of towing capacity with the non-hybrid EcoBoost engine.
Form and function
2020 Ford F-150
9/10
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
Both the 2020 and 2021 F-150 models offered three cab styles and similarly sized bed options, providing versatility whether prioritizing passenger space or cargo capacity. The 2020 model featured practical interior storage solutions such as the large center console and customizable bed configurations, reinforcing its utility-focused design. The 2021 model took utility a step further by incorporating features like an innovative fold-away shifter and optional Max Recline Seats, catering well to users who might use their truck as a mobile office or a rest area. Furthermore, it introduced enhancements like an in-bed power outlet system ideal for powering tools directly from the vehicle, showcasing a thoughtful integration of function in line with modern work needs.
Technology
2020 Ford F-150
8/10
2021 Ford F-150
9/10
Technology in the 2020 F-150 included Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system in the XLT trim and above, featuring intuitive interfaces and robust connectivity options. Lower trims received more basic infotainment offerings, ensuring even the entry-level configurations had essential media capabilities. The 2021 update saw the introduction of Ford’s SYNC 4 system, which improved upon the previous model by offering a larger 12-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, and the ability to receive over-the-air updates, keeping the system current without manual interventions. Enhanced driver aids and an overall boost in tech interfacing cemented the 2021 model as the more technologically advanced offering.
Safety
2020 Ford F-150
8/10
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
The 2020 Ford F-150 featured a comprehensive array of safety technologies, including standard automatic emergency braking and an available suite of driver aids under Ford Co-Pilot360. It achieved admirable safety ratings, reflecting its build and safety-centric technologies. For 2021, while full safety ratings were pending at release, preliminary tests and structural carryovers suggested similar robust safety measures. Noteworthy was the introduction of Ford’s Active Drive Assist (available later in the model year), which promised hands-free driving capabilities on pre-mapped highways, marking a significant step towards autonomous driving technologies.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.

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