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Ford Updates F-150 for 2027 with New Engine and Hands-Free Towing
Ford has refreshed its best-selling F-150 pickup for 2027, introducing a new 3.0-litre V6 engine, expanded V8 availability, a Carhartt trim, and a hands-free towing system that existing BlueCruise subscribers receive at no extra cost.
By Eleanor Ellington · 3 min read
Ford has unveiled a wide-ranging update to its F-150 pickup for the 2027 model year, combining a new engine, expanded V8 availability, a Carhartt-branded trim, and a hands-free towing system that will be offered to existing subscribers without an increase in price.
The headline mechanical change is a new 3.0-litre V6 replacing the outgoing 2.7-litre EcoBoost unit. On paper the outputs appear identical — 325 bhp and 400 lb-ft of torque — but Ford says the new engine delivers its peak torque at 2,250 rpm rather than 3,500 rpm, providing 10 to 11 per cent more usable muscle in the rev range most drivers occupy day to day. The tow rating remains 8,400 lbs, well below the 13,500 lbs available from the 400 bhp 3.5-litre EcoBoost, but Ford argues that hauling a boat, project car or side-by-side will feel more effortless.
That impression should be reinforced by an expansion of Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving assistant to towing situations. The company notes that 75 per cent of F-150 drivers tow, and BlueCruise with Towing will operate on 130,000 miles of routes. Crucially, existing subscribers will receive the towing capability without being asked to pay more.
Buyers seeking more power will find the 5.0-litre V8, rated at 400 bhp, now available on King Ranch and Platinum trims for the first time since 2003. The engine range also includes a 430 bhp 3.5-litre V6 PowerBoost hybrid, a 450 bhp 3.5 EcoBoost in the Raptor, and the 720 bhp 5.2-litre V8 in the Raptor R.
Ford is also moving to make its off-road-oriented trims more affordable. The regular Raptor and Tremor will be offered in cheaper forms for 2027, though prices are still to be confirmed. The entry-level Raptor loses its head-up display, fog lamps, 2kW onboard power supply, power passenger seats and steering column, and receives a downgraded sound system. The base Tremor, now based on the STX, drops heated seats, dual-zone climate control, running boards and power rear glass. In the 2026 model year the Tremor cost $67,710 and the Raptor $81,800; removing equipment is expected to shave a grand or two from each.
On the styling front, the XLT, Lariat and King Ranch receive new grilles and wheels. The most distinctive addition is a $62,660 F-150 Carhartt trim, developed with the outdoor clothing brand and carried over from the F-Series Super Duty. It includes a bed protector, special 20-inch wheels, fender vents, and multiple Carhartt graphics and badges.
The updates arrive as Ford balances attention on its new Fathom electric vehicle with the continuing importance of the F-150, long America's favourite pickup and a central contributor to the company's sales and dealer revenue.
