Would a new 2020 Ford F-250 Tremor be a good replacement for a 2010 1st-gen Ford Raptor? Does the heavy duty truck ride very rough during a commute when compared against a new F-150? This question from Bill B. boils down to safety and ride quality between a new F-150 or an F-250.
Here is what Bill B. writes:
“I am a 68 year old retired trauma surgeon who has seen far too many motor vehicle accidents, even before safety glass, seat belt laws, and airbags. I currently drive a 2010 Ford SVT Raptor which has been a spectacular vehicle, but it is getting long in the tooth. I am considering both a F-150 and a F-250 in the 4×4 V8 gas configuration. My primary attribute for any vehicle is safety above all else. I love the looks, height and mass of the F-250 (perhaps a Tremor), and as you noted the prices between the two are similar. I have never driven a F-250 and wonder what your impressions are in terms of ‘drivability’ between the two trucks. Generally, I put less than 5,000 miles per year, but like to go off-road now and then. Mostly city driving to Walmart and Costco.“
It sounds like Bill has his mind mostly set on a new F-250. The heavy duty trucks are not crash tested by the IIHS, but the do get tested and rated by the government (NHTSA). Here is a rating for a 2019 Ford F-250 crew cab, since 2020 crash rating are not complete yet. The 2019 NHTSA report shows a 3 star (out of 5) rollover rating. The good news is that the 2020 Ford F-250 is about one inch lower than in 2019. Also, the Super Duty trucks share the same cab structure as the F-150 trucks. The F-150 cab has a Good IIHS roof strength rating. The F-150 roof could withstand 5.85 times the truck’s curb weight in the IIHS test.
The new 2020 Super Duty trucks have better ride characteristics than ever before. I am talking specifically about the gas-powered trucks with slightly softer suspension tuning. The F-250 is still larger in overall size than an F-150, but the ride quality specifically on the F-250 gas models (not F-350) is very similar to the F150. Yes, the F-150 has independent front suspension and can be tuned for a comfortable ride. However, Ford has done a very good job tuning the ride of the solid front axle in the F-250.
Will the new F-250 ride a cushy as a 2010 Ford SVT Raptor? No. Bill, you should definitely test drive a 7.3-liter V8-powered 2020 Ford F-250. I would test drive a regular F-250 4×4 and a Tremor. The Tremor has a suspension lift and larger 35-inch tires.
What do you guys think?
