Ford has steadily been churning out step-up upgrades for each of its 2021 models, and the 2021 Ford F-150 is no exception. If you're searching for a new work truck that doubles as a humble suburban vehicle, then Ford's F-150 series has always been at the top of your list. There's plenty to look forward to in next year's model, including new exterior and safety features.

Exterior (Overall Design)

At first glance, the 2021 Ford F-150 doesn't seem all that different from the 2020 model, but there are a few key places where Ford has made some choice upgrades. For example, the 2021 model has a different grille style that is overall less bulky and cleaner. Ford has also upgraded the tailgate this year and redesigned the headlights to have a wider, more classic setting.

The 2021 series has all the trims we've come to expect from Ford F-150s, including the base XL, XLT upgrade, luxurious Lariat and Platinum trims, and the old school King Ranch trim. The 2021 series also has a Limited trim that contains every single upgrade, including a hybrid powertrain.

Interior Features

The 2021 F-150 series has three cab configurations, each of which is crafted with upgraded upholstery and materials. The interior of this series also includes more storage space than ever before, with additional storage cubbies and increased cargo space. In addition to the roomy configuration for passengers and other comfort features, including a folding seat that can convert for sleeping, the overall interior upgrades have put the 2021 Ford F-150 series on par with Ram.

Ford is also upgrading the tech features across all trims, including an 8'' infotainment display with more connectivity options than ever before, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Some trims have Wi-Fi hotspot upgrades, as well as premium audio upgrades to SiriusXM and revamped speaker systems.

Engines

The 2021 series boasts a broad collection of powertrains to match up to any of the performance you can demand from the truck, including the first-ever hybrid powertrain for the F-150. The two powertrains we're most excited about include the 400-horsepower 5.0-liter V-8 and the 325-horsepower twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6, each of which comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The hybrid powertrain has a 3.5 twin-turbocharged V-6 engine with a 35kW electric motor. Critics indicate that this hybrid powertrain is Ford's leading step into the final reveal of the all-electric F-150, which may be released in as little as two years. The handling of the hybrid powertrain includes a 10-speed automatic transmission that withstands all performance demands as well as classic powertrains.

Safety Features

Ford is clearly striving to stay ahead of the competition when it comes to safety features, which can be seen in the upgrades given to the F-150 series. For example, the 2021 models include features such as a rear-facing camera for monitoring attached trailers and adaptive cruise control.

Ford is also including a few driver-assist programs, including standard automated emergency braking, emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and lane-departure assist.