The automotive landscape is a constantly evolving battlefield. Brands rise and fall, models come and go, and even once-dominant players can fade from memory. Yet, amidst this perpetual churn, one name remains a consistent heavyweight champion: the Ford F-Series pickup truck. Dominating sales charts for decades, the F-150, the light-duty version of the F-Series, continues to reign supreme, accounting for the vast majority of the 700,000+ units sold annually. But does the latest iteration, specifically the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew Hybrid, maintain the legacy? This in-depth review explores its strengths, weaknesses, and place in the fiercely competitive pickup truck market.

The F-150: A Range of Choices

Much like the Porsche 911, the F-150 boasts a vast array of configurations. From the stripped-down workhorse XL to the off-road-ready, high-performance Raptor R with its rip-snorting V8, there’s an F-150 for almost every need. The XLT SuperCrew, however, represents the core of Ford’s sales volume. This is the truck for the everyday driver, the weekend adventurer, and the practical homeowner.

Price and Options: Balancing Value with Feature Sets

Our test truck, a four-wheel-drive XLT SuperCrew, starts at a base price of $53,910. However, with a raft of optional extras, the as-tested price climbs to $65,940. These options include the FX4 Off-Road package, a spray-in bedliner for added durability, and a retractable rear center step for easier access to the bed, among others. While not the flashiest or most luxurious, the F-150 XLT aims for a sweet spot, offering a blend of capability and practicality that appeals to a broad audience. This is where the F-150 demonstrates its staying power in the American market.

PowerBoost Hybrid Powertrain: Performance Meets Efficiency

One of the key differentiators of our test model is the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. Pairing a larger 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine with a 47-hp electric motor, the system delivers a combined output of 430 horsepower and a massive 570 pound-feet of torque. On the test track, this setup effortlessly propelled the 5,631-pound F-150 from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.0 seconds.

The PowerBoost’s performance is readily apparent in real-world driving. Mash the accelerator, and you’ll experience a surge of power, accompanied by a satisfying growl from the engine, and often, a chirp from the rear tires. This is a truck that can handle anything from towing a trailer to merging onto the highway with confidence.

Transmission and Handling: Smoothness and Control

The standard 10-speed automatic transmission further enhances the driving experience. It executes quick and decisive downshifts, providing immediate access to the torque reserves. Stopping power is also commendable, with the F-150 needing just 185 feet to decelerate from 70 mph to a standstill, a shorter distance than a similarly equipped Ram 1500 Big Horn.

The F-150 also inspires confidence behind the wheel. The steering is direct and accurate for a pickup, with minimal play at the center position, making it surprisingly easy to place on the road. Body roll in corners is well-controlled, contributing to its relatively agile feel for such a large vehicle. This makes the F-150 a sure-footed partner, regardless of the driving conditions.

Hybrid System: Seamless Integration

The PowerBoost system is a “parallel hybrid,” not a plug-in hybrid. It can’t travel far on electric power alone. However, it seamlessly integrates the electric motor to enhance fuel efficiency and provide extra power when needed. The system can also operate in EV mode at low speeds in urban areas, switching off the gasoline engine when coasting.

The transition between the gasoline engine and electric motor is generally seamless and unnoticeable. The gasoline engine restarts with a quiet hum, free of any jarring shudders. Even when you floor the accelerator while gliding on electric power, the powertrain rapidly restarts the engine, selects the appropriate gear, and delivers a rapid burst of acceleration.

Fuel Economy: A Mixed Bag

While the PowerBoost system is designed to enhance fuel efficiency, the real-world results were somewhat mixed. The EPA rates the hybrid at 23 mpg combined, which is a noticeable improvement compared to the base 2.7-liter V-6. However, during our testing, we only observed an average of 17 mpg. On the highway test, the F-150 achieved 20 mpg, which is a few miles per gallon below the EPA’s highway rating. While the hybrid’s efficiency gains might not be as dramatic as anticipated, its performance benefits justify the $3,560 premium required to unlock the technology.

Ride Quality: A Traditional Truck Feel

One area where the F-150 deviates from some of its competitors is ride comfort. Ford’s reliance on a solid rear axle and traditional leaf springs results in a ride that isn’t as smooth and plush as the coil-spring or air-spring setups found in some rivals, particularly the Ram 1500. The rear end can be prone to a shimmy over larger bumps, which is more noticeable at lower speeds. However, the 18-inch wheels on our test truck provided enough sidewall to help soak up imperfections, which improves comfort slightly. Some drivers actually preferred the F-150’s less sophisticated feel, finding it to offer more connection to the road. This depends on your personal preferences and driving habits.

Capability: More Than Just a Pretty Face

While ride comfort might be a consideration for some, the F-150 excels in its core mission: offering impressive capability. Hybrid models can tow up to 11,200 pounds and carry up to 1,815 pounds in the cargo bed. Our test truck was also equipped with the 7.2-kW Pro Power Onboard package for $850. This system adds four 120-volt outlets and a 240-volt outlet in the bed, allowing you to power tools, appliances, or even a campsite setup.

Technology and Interior: Practicality and Functionality

Inside, the F-150 XLT blends functionality with modern technology. The standard 12.0-inch touchscreen displays crisp graphics, while the inclusion of physical buttons for essential functions like volume and climate control is a welcome feature. The user interface is intuitive, providing ease of use. Unfortunately, Apple CarPlay only covers two-thirds of the screen; the remaining space displays information from other sources, which is, at times, redundant.

The cabin is practical, with the leather center armrest providing a touch of luxury. However, the majority of the center console is filled with hard plastics. The cloth seats are comfortable, and the center console has practical touches, like a slot for a cellphone. The armrest unfolds to provide a mobile desk, a $555 option. The column-mounted shifter feels truck-like and frees up space for loose items. The rear seat is also incredibly spacious, providing ample legroom for passengers.

Additional Features: Enhancing Everyday Driving

Additional features, like the 360-degree camera system, are helpful for parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The XLT also offers Ford’s BlueCruise hands-free driving assistance system, which handles lane changes and provides confident steering on divided highways.

The Verdict: A Worthy Contender

The Ford F-150 XLT Hybrid SuperCrew continues to be the king of the pickup truck segment. It’s a versatile vehicle capable of handling anything from a construction site to a family camping trip. The F-150 excels with the hybrid powertrain. It is practical, packed with technology, and has impressive capability. Its popularity is well-deserved. It successfully combines performance, functionality, and practicality. While it might not have the plushest ride or the most luxurious interior, the 2025 F-150 XLT Hybrid remains a compelling choice for anyone seeking a capable and well-rounded full-size pickup truck.

Key Specifications:

• Vehicle Type: Front-engine, front-motor, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup

• Price (Base/As Tested): $53,910 / $65,940

• Powertrain: Twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6 + AC motor (combined output: 430 hp, 570 lb-ft)

• Transmission: 10-speed automatic

• 0-60 mph: 5.0 seconds

• EPA Fuel Economy (Combined): 23 mpg (observed 17 mpg)

• Towing Capacity: Up to 11,200 pounds

• Payload Capacity: Up to 1,815 pounds