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Ford F250 - 2005 Pickup Truck Buyers Guide

by Martha Hindes

Ford F250
Ford F250 Interior

"We've got the power." That's how the song goes. If Ford thinks it perfectly describes their 2005 Super Duty F Series pickup trucks, we won't dispute their claim. After all, a properly equipped vehicle that can pull a stump, or tow some 17,000 pounds of house trailer, power boat, all terrain vehicles or horse van on the way to the next steeplechase event has some serious muscle behind the ability. In this case, it's a new three-valve 6.8-liter V10 rocket with self-described best-in-class power (355-HP) and inertia-defeating torque (455 lb.ft.). Alternate power comes from a 5.4-liter V8, or 6.0-liter Power Stroke diesel, with V6 power reserved for light-duty F150s.

Horizontal bright metal bars highlight the Super Duty's strong grille face. Extendible side mirrors expand towing use. A string of five amber lights glowing across the front roofline on some models almost commands the tentative driver ahead to pull aside and give the F Series quick passage.

One can pick and choose from five authoritative F250 and F350 Super Duty models starting from $23,575 to $44,500: King Ranch, XL, Lariat, XLT and Harley-Davidson. That's enough to satisfy any work-capable pickup taste. Towing chores are eased by an all-new TowCommand System and computer synched Trailer Brake Controller. Inside, a trim, functional dash, sturdy leather trim and available captain's chairs among amenities, plus leg-stretching room and ample storage crannies add a car-like luxurious feel. Advanced security includes autolamp, autolock, panic alarm, illuminated entry, remote keyfob and Ford's upscale driver's door keypad for secure, backup entry.

Our F Series heavy-duty test pickup came with legendary Harley-Davidson trappings (through a licensing agreement with the fabled motorcycle company). Bright chrome trim, Harley-Davidson badging, signature black and red muted flames on each side, automatic sliding rear window and tiny H-D logos patterned on instrument panel and door insets just scream "hog heaven." The crowning jewel, of course: Manufacture date, limited edition number and VIN number on an H-D crest on the center console.

Impressed with its big "bad boy" good looks and respected powerhouse handling, we took our classy four-wheeled Harley to a local country club on a whim where it blended right in with sports cars and upmarket sport utilities crowded into the parking lot. And it garnered some serious attention. Call that the power of a (high end) pickup.

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