2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty had some noticeable updates that, while subtle, were acknowledged by keen enthusiasts. Ford tweaked the front bumper by integrating more black-painted areas, reducing the previous bling-heavy aesthetic. The two-bar grille design was swapped for a more understated version, resulting in sleeker headlights without greatly altering the overall shape. Overall, the design signified some restraint in styling while maintaining its original blueprint.

This model was available in multiple trims — XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited — with varying appearances that catered to different preferences. For instance, the base XL featured a black grille and bumpers with 17-inch steel wheels. The XLT added brightwork elements and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Lariat featured fog lights and power-telescoping side mirrors. Higher trims like the King Ranch and Platinum offered unique touches, such as two-tone paint and chrome accents. The special Tremor package featured a dark grille and wheels with off-road tires. Inside, the F-250 offered a functional yet somewhat cold and mechanical cabin. Hard plastics were prevalent, and while controls were logically laid out with ample storage, the overall feel was more utilitarian than plush.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty maintained the bold, robust look Ford was known for, elevating the blocky, muscular vibe of the F-150. These trucks were larger in every dimension, emphasizing heavy-duty capability. The visual appeal wasn't merely for show; it translated into practical benefits like improved cargo-hauling capabilities and better ground clearance. Depending on the cab and trim level, the Super Duty's interior ranged from basic and utilitarian to spacious and luxurious. The base XL trim offered good headroom and legroom but remained a stripped-down work truck. The higher trims, such as the Limited, featured upscale leather and refined finishes that rivaled luxury cars.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty came with a standard 6.2-liter gasoline V8 engine offering 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. There was also an available 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 producing 475 hp and an impressive 1,050 lb-ft of torque. 2020 introduced a new 7.3-liter gas V8 option, delivering 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The new gas engines used a 10-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel engine was paired with a six-speed automatic. Standard RWD could be upgraded to 4WD with a low range. When equipped with the diesel engine and appropriate towing packages, the F-250 could tow up to 30,000 pounds.

The driving experience, characterized by strong low-to-mid-range acceleration, was surprisingly agile for such a massive truck. However, the suspension needed to be robust to handle significant weight, resulting in a fairly bumpy ride when unloaded. Available packages like the FX4 and the new Tremor off-road package further enhanced its rugged capabilities, adding specialized shocks, skid plates, and more.

For 2021, the Ford F-250 Super Duty continued to offer three powertrains: the base 6.2-liter V8 with 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, a 7.3-liter V8 with 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel producing 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. All engines were now paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. These trucks came standard with RWD, but 4WD was available. The F-350 variant could be ordered with dual rear wheels for enhanced towing capability, extending towing potential to over 36,000 pounds with a gooseneck setup. Payload capacity hit highs of 4,060 pounds in certain configurations. Off-road capabilities were enhanced further with the Tremor package, featuring factory lift kits and rugged tires.

In 2020, the Ford F-250 was available in Regular Cab, extended SuperCab, and full four-door Crew Cab configurations. Bed sizes included 6-foot-9-inch and 8-foot variants, with a tailgate step for easier access. Inside, the cabin was incredibly spacious and highly functional. Storage solutions, like the massive center console and rear-seat load floor, were designed with practicality in mind.

The 2021 model also emphasized utility but didn't skimp on comfort. Standard front seats were a 40/20/40 folding bench, offering comfort and convenience. The Crew Cab and SuperCab models featured generous rear seating, easily accessible through large doors. However, driving and maneuvering in tight spaces were challenging due to the truck's sheer size, making parking and visibility problematic. The clever tailgate with optional steps and handle facilitated bed access but wasn’t as intricate as those offered by competitors like Chevrolet and GMC.

The 2020 F-250 featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system, known for its intuitive interface and sensible layout. The base XL came with a simple AM/FM/MP3 radio unit, four speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C port. Upgrading to the XLT provided additional speakers, SiriusXM satellite radio, and an 8-inch touchscreen, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordPass Connect was standard and facilitated various remote functions via a smartphone app.

For 2021, Ford's Sync 3 system continued to shine with its user-friendly interface. The base XL trim featured a non-touch display, while higher trims included a larger touchscreen. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with upgraded audio systems available on higher trims. Additional tech options included a WiFi hotspot, heated and ventilated seats, and adjustable upfitter switches for powered accessories.

The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty included standard safety features such as front- and side-impact airbags, trailer sway control, hill start assist, and AdvanceTrac with roll stability control. Buyers could opt for advanced features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. However, the 2020 model wasn't crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, and advanced safety features were often not standard.

Similarly, the 2021 version offered a variety of safety packages and options but made many advanced features available at extra cost. Options included blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The trailer tow package with Pro Trailer Backup Assist added specialized camera views for easier towing. Like its predecessor, the 2021 model hadn't been tested by NHTSA or IIHS.