We drove the new models on highways and back roads and at the Ford Proving Grounds, located in 100-plus summer temperatures of Kingman, Arizona. Over the course of the day, we drove different models in the series in exercises designed to evaluate ride quality, towing capacity, braking capability and power and torque. We were most impressed by the quietness and ergonomic fit of the cabin (good grab handle to ease entry and exit for shorter drivers, good placement of gauges and controls, excellent forward and rearward visibility); the power and torque of the engines and shift points in the transmissions (plenty of grunt to carry tow loads, as well as to achieve first place in a quarter-mile drag strip with comparably-set-up competitive models, as well as smooth shifting); great, well-modulated braking (no porposing and jounce feedback, even under heavy load) and improved steering, particularly with the larger commercial versions, which show better lock-to-lock precision.

The interior has also been reworked to increase user friendliness. The message center now sits in between the speedometer and tachometer in the instrument cluster. Drivers also have more control on the steering wheel, as they can adjust the audio system and climate control. On XLT and Lariat trim models, a power sliding rear window is available. For commercial users, Ford offers a unique option - four auxiliary switches come mounted to the lower dash. These switches are available to control aftermarket additions such as towing equipment and light bars. Ford's logic here is great - rather than forcing commercial drivers to fit the vehicles with non-factory switches in less than convenient places, Ford has pre-determined an ergonomically-grounded spot to control auxiliary equipment.