In the used Ford F-250, heavy-duty towing and hauling can be downright luxurious. These muscular trucks can move more weight than lesser models, but they also offer a wealth of modern comfort and technology, ranging from high-end leather upholstery to street-smart driver safety aids. By showing you how these trucks have changed over the years, our used Ford F-250 buying guide is here to help you narrow down your options.
Third Generation: 2017-Current Model
The third-generation used Ford F-250 is both more maneuverable and efficient than ever before, thanks to its new aluminum body panels. Along with a stronger frame and reinforced suspension, the lighter body also helps you tow and haul heavier cargo.
And these used heavy-duty trucks are as comfortable as ever, with three roomy cabin options (regular, extended cab, and crew cab) and six trim models (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited) from which to choose.
This generation offers three heavy-duty engine options. The trusty 6.2-liter gas-powered V8 engine is back with 385 horses and 430 pound-feet of torque. It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission specially designed for heavy-duty hauling.
You’ll also recognize the 6.7-liter turbocharged diesel V8 from generations past, but now it’s more powerful than ever, with 475 horses and 1,050 pound-feet of torque. A brand new 7.3-liter gas-powered V8 engine is also available to help you haul heavy-duty payloads with 430 horses and 475 pound-feet of torque. The turbodiesel V8 and bigger gas-powered V8 are mated to a 10-speed automatic that’s meant to move heavy loads.
So far, the F-250 received one big update during this generation:
- The 2020 F-250 was the first to offer the bigger 7.3-liter gas-powered V8 engine. It was also the first to offer a 10-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard with the 7.3-liter V8 and 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 engines. Finally, the 2020 F-250 introduced the Tremor package, a bundle of off-road gear to help this heavy-duty truck handle rugged terrain.
Second Generation: 2008-2015
These heavy-duty trucks were also available with either a regular, extended, or crew cab. Five trim levels — XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum — offer increasing levels of comfort and even luxury. For example, the Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum
From 2011 on, shoppers could choose between two engines. The gas-powered 6.2-liter V8 engine makes 385 horses and 405 pound-feet of torque and is a great option for drivers with heavy-duty payloads to move. For heftier towing action, look for a used Ford F-250 with the 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 engine, which increases capabilities with 400 horses and 800 pound-feet of torque.
Before 2011, the second-generation F-250 offered three engines. The then-standard 5.4-liter V8 engine is rated for 300 horses and 365 pound-feet of torque. An optional gas-powered 6.8-liter V10 boosted performance with 362 horses and 457 pound-feet of torque. Finally, the 6.4-liter turbodiesel V8 engine was available for heavy-duty towing operation, with 350 horses and 650 pound-feet of torque.
This generation of F-250s was updated a few times. Here are the changes you need to know about:
- The 2013 F-250 introduced upgraded brakes for greater stopping power during heavy-duty hauls. The luxurious Platinum trim model and MyFord Touch infotainment system also debuted for 2013.
- Beginning in 2011, the second-generation F-250 introduced its modern engine lineup, the 6.2-liter gas-powered V8 and 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8.