Ford’s 2021 F-150 lineup includes a hybrid

The world got its first look at the next-generation 2021 F-150 this week.

As Ford’s No. 1 seller, the F-150 is key to the F-Series trucks wearing the crown as America’s best-selling truck line for 43 straight years. Before Covid-19, trucks were having a great run. Last year, 2.4 million new full-size trucks (including heavy duty models) were sold. According to Edmunds, that translates into 14.5% of all new vehicle sales in the U.S. in 2019.

That kind of volume and profit margin means the F-150 generates truckloads of money for Ford. But even though the Blue Oval has dominated for decades, competition is brutal and the truck sales crown is theirs to lose. With the wholly redesigned, 14th generation F-150 arriving this fall, Ford is keeping its eyes on the prize.

More than ever, the F-150 has the attitude of a Super Duty. Higher fenders (shoulders, if you will) and larger-diameter tires and wheels are moved outward ¾-inch, giving it a bit of a sumo wrestler’s stance. Every exterior body panel is new. It’s the same form factor but somehow the truck’s evolutionary exterior manages to be both more macho and elegant.

While you’ll spot the redesigned “C-clamp” headlight accents, what’s harder to discern is the truck’s improved aero. Helping here are attention to cab and tailgate details as well as hardware such as active grille shutters and a retractable front air dam.

While every F-150 gets a “power dome” hood, the F-150 gains some diversity courtesy of the 11 different grilles that depend on the truck’s trim and configuration.

While we’re talking hoods, pickup diehards of the “Make it a V8 or go home” ethos can relax. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 is one the six engines available at the...