2021 Ford F-150 vs 2020 Ford F-150

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.

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.

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 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.

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.