The 2017 Ford F-150 Super Cab represents a significant evolution in the full-size pickup segment, blending the practicality of extended cab access with the capability of a standard bed. For buyers who regularly haul passengers but refuse to compromise on bed length, this configuration offered a compelling middle ground. Under the hood, a range of powertrons from efficient V6s to thirsty V8s allowed buyers to tailor the truck to their specific needs, whether that was daily commuting or serious towing. This model year solidified the Super Cab's position as a popular choice for contractors, adventure seekers, and families who required versatility without sacrificing utility.
Design and Dimensions
Visually, the 2017 F-150 Super Cab is distinguished by its elongated doors and the prominent rear quarter windows that provide visibility for rear-seat occupants. The shift from the traditional side-hinged rear doors to rear-hinged "suicide" doors was a defining change for this generation, creating a seamless opening that makes access to the rear bench effortless. This design language is consistent with the rest of the F-150 lineup, featuring the signature trapezoidal grille and available LED headlamps. The Super Cab sits on a 145-inch wheelbase, which strikes a balance between maneuverability and the necessary cargo space behind the seats.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2017 model year marked a move away from the stark, utilitarian dashboards of previous generations toward a more refined environment. The introduction of the SYNC 3 infotainment system was a game-changer, featuring a responsive touch screen, improved graphics, and the ability to run Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Cloth seating surfaces were bolstered for better support, and the cabin quietness was improved through the strategic use of additional sound-deadening materials. Drivers benefited from a fully digital LCD cluster, which provided clear readouts for fuel economy, navigation, and vehicle diagnostics, all customizable to the driver's preference.
Powertrain and Capability
Ford offered a strategic lineup of engines for the 2017 Super Cab, allowing buyers to balance power with efficiency. The base engine was a 3.3-liter V6, adequate for light hauling. More popular were the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 and the 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V8, which provided strong mid-range torque for towing and hauling. The top-tier 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 delivered impressive power figures for a half-ton truck. Transmission options included a six-speed automatic, with the 10-speed automatic becoming available later in the model year for enhanced towing performance and highway cruising efficiency.
Towing and Payload Capacity
One of the primary reasons buyers choose a Super Cab is its capability, and the 2017 F-150 did not disappoint in this regard. With the proper configuration, including the heavy-duty towing package and 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, this truck could tow up to 13,200 pounds. Payload capacity was equally impressive, with the best configurations able to carry over 2,000 pounds of cargo in the bed. The integration of the aluminum body significantly reduced curb weight, which directly contributed to these impressive figures, allowing the truck to haul heavy trailers without sacrificing fuel economy.
Fuel Efficiency
A major highlight of the 2017 model year was the focus on fuel efficiency, a direct result of the aluminum-intensive construction. The Super Cab's lighter weight, compared to its steel-bodied predecessors, meant that even the larger engines saw improvements in MPG. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine, in particular, offered a strong combination of power and economy, making it a favorite among buyers who wanted capability without excessive fuel stops. This efficiency was further enhanced by the available start-stop technology, which helped conserve fuel during idle periods at traffic lights or in heavy traffic.
