Full disclosure: I drive a 2024 RAM 1500 Limited 4×4 Crew Cab with a 5.5’ box, so reviewing a direct competitor objectively is always a challenge. That said, I’m a pickup guy at heart, and when one of LeaseBusters’ newly signed Ford dealer partners offered me a 2025 Ford F-150 Platinum 4WD SuperCrew, I couldn’t resist. I suspect my dealership contact saw me roll up in my RAM Limited and thought, “Let’s show him what real luxury feels like.” Challenge accepted!
Before I even got behind the wheel, my dealer contact took me for a “lot-walk.” I expected a sea of identical trucks, but instead, I was greeted by an astonishing variety of F-150s, each sporting a different grille design. Out of curiosity, I pulled up CarCostCanada on my phone—turns out Ford offers 26 different F-150 trims. That’s not a typo. Twenty-six. While that might seem excessive in the world of sedans and SUVs, in the realm of full-size pickups, it’s par for the course.
From Base to Platinum – A Wide Range
The F-150 lineup starts with the Regular Cab 2WD XL 8’ Box at $51,455—a pretty hefty base price for a three-passenger work truck. However, even at this level, Ford packs in plenty of standard features: a turbocharged V6 (EcoBoost), a 10-speed automatic, air conditioning, SYNC 4, keyless entry, and modern safety tech like blind-spot monitoring.
Then, there’s the Platinum I tested. Priced at $111,000, it’s more than double the cost of the base model, and for good reason. But here’s a heads-up for Canadian buyers—crossing the $100,000 mark means a luxury tax applies.
On the Road: A Pickup That Drives Like a Luxury SUV
From the moment I settled into the power-adjustable, leather-wrapped driver’s seat, I knew this was no ordinary work truck. The F-150 Platinum’s dashboard is a tech-lover’s dream: a massive 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, fully digital gauge cluster, and enough buttons to make a fighter pilot feel at home. The sport console shifter feels solid and precise, and the overall layout is intuitive.
On the road, the Platinum F-150 delivered an exceptionally smooth and composed ride—very comparable to my RAM 1500, which is a huge compliment. Ford has really refined its suspension, making highway cruising a delight while still maintaining excellent towing and hauling capabilities.
A Feature I Didn’t Know I Needed
One thing I always look for when testing a pickup is unique features I haven’t seen in my own truck. The F-150 did not disappoint. Its tailgate includes a swing-out door with a hidden step-up feature that makes bed access effortless. Whether loading tools, luggage, or a cooler full of tailgate snacks, this feature eliminates the need for awkwardly climbing in and out of the bed—and saves you from embarrassing pants-tearing moments in the process. Ford, you got me. Now I want this on my RAM.
Powertrain Choices: Something for Everyone
With 26 trims come six different powertrain options, each catering to a specific type of truck buyer. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
2.7L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbocharged V6 | 325 HP | 400 lb-ft |
5.0L Ti-VCT V8 | 400 HP | 410 lb-ft |
3.5L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbocharged V6 | 400 HP | 500 lb-ft |
3.5L PowerBoost™ Full Hybrid V6 | 430 HP | 570 lb-ft |
High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbocharged V6 | 450 HP | 510 lb-ft |
5.2L Supercharged V8 | 720 HP | 640 lb-ft |
For those who tow, here’s what you need to know:
Engine | Max Towing Capacity* | Max Payload Capacity* |
2.7L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbo V6 | 8,400 lbs | 1,785 lbs |
5.0L Ti-VCT V8 | 12,900 lbs | 2,225 lbs |
3.5L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbo V6 | 13,500 lbs | 2,440 lbs |
3.5L PowerBoost™ Hybrid V6 | 11,200 lbs | 1,750 lbs |
High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost® Twin-Turbo V6 | 8,200 lbs | 1,410 lbs |
(*Note: All figures are estimates and may vary based on configuration and options.)
TheCarMagazine’s Recommendation
The F-150 Platinum is undeniably impressive, but at $111,000, it’s not the most practical choice for every buyer. If you’re looking for the best balance of price, equipment, and capability, I recommend the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 4WD SuperCrew 5.5’ Box. This build, priced at $69,125, includes the 2.7L EcoBoost engine, 10-speed automatic, 20” wheels, sport cloth seats, electronic locking rear differential, a spray-in bedliner, and a hard-folding tonneau cover—offering excellent value without breaking the bank.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Ford F-150 continues to dominate the full-size pickup segment with its blend of capability, technology, and variety. Whether you’re looking for a no-frills workhorse or a luxury-laden hauler, there’s an F-150 for you. And while I’m still a RAM guy at heart, I have to admit—the F-150 Platinum made me question my loyalty.
Now, if Ford could just work on that luxury tax exemption…
James Matthews is the President, General Manager and Co-Founder of LeaseBusters. James launched LeaseBusters in 1990 and is considered one of Canada’s leading experts on new vehicle leases, lease-take-overs and vehicle lease (re)marketing. James can be reached directly at jmatthews at leasebusters.com
