My 2016 bullet proof (so far) 5.0 has the debugged 'n proven 6 speed tranny and NO auto stop start BS.
Far as engine reliability and no 10 speed hassles go, the '16 and '15 5.O is probably the best it gets based on the threads here and my experience.

 

Thanks so much to everyone for the responses. But MNgopher, you win the prize! Very informative. Based on your current rig, is the 2.7 sufficient? And is the 10-speed transmission something you wish you had?

 

16 2.7 here... engine is good with a lot of kick... something to be said about the 6 speed... great transmission but u will lose mpg over the 10 (on the highway in 6 Hangs at about 1700) which is fine for me, 3.5 10 will get u better mpg but can feel clunky as well.

how about your needs? Mpg importance? Towing needs? Ect

 

Yes it does. 2016, 2.7eb, w/ auto start/stop.

 

Thanks. Needs are more camping, ski equipment, house projects, dump runs, etc. I'm not a contractor, but we do lots of house construction projects and my old Tundra was great. So I liked the larger bed.

Towing is a great rarity.

Like the idea of the larger gas tank for road trips and going out on BLM land without worrying about fuel.

 

The 6 speed has been fine for my needs (and the 10 speed was not available when I bought anyways). The 10 speed gets better fuel mileage.

For my needs, I've got exactly what I need. I never tow heavier than around 5000 lbs, and payload is fine for my needs. This truck does everything my 04 F150 with 5.4 did, but is way more fun to drive, and gets better fuel mileage to boot. Tows way better too.

I've got the optional 36 gallon tank which I love when towing or out west...

 

My wife’s ‘18 Edge with 2.7 Ecoboost does not have stop/start. I know, I know this is an F150 forum. I once had a loaner car with the stop/start feature. I probly drove for 45 min before I realized it had stop/start. I don’t know why people get themselves in a tizzy over this. Just because it’s not like all the vehicles you’ve owned before this one? We used to have rotary dial phones wired to the house too!

 

It might of taken you 45m it took me about five minutes to realize it and not like it. Its annoying and distracting. Purposely stressing your starter with excessive usage to save 0.1 mpg makes absolutely no sense.

 

I feel like the 17 is the best all around truck for more than one reason:

5 liter was well refined going into an update for 18+models. Newer models have known issues with that first run new 5 liter, the 17s didnt
Also the 17 5 liters still had the 6 speed, again well refined after years of service
3.5 Ecoboost had the cylinder fuel delivery issue corrected among other things, Gen 2, and the 10 speed added, 18+ models have this too but the 17s I am familiar with having this combo are rock solid

Totally subjective but I feel the 15-17 front clip looks much better, I then feel the 12-14 model Fx4s are great looking trucks, then the newer model

I've had gen 1 and gen 2 ecoboosts, two 5 liters, and have no shame in saying that I am very preferential to the 5 liter

A 17 platinum or king ranch with the 5 liter is my choice of 'best' one to go with, and I have 2 ecoboosts right now. Probably soon to trade one in for a 17 5 liter

 

Owned a 16 501a Lariat Screw 4X4 with a 2.7 EB and 3:55 gears, trailer tow, tailgate step, no moon roof. 5'.5'' box
Auto stop start, with direct injection almost immediate restarts not a issue unless one wants a issue. (15-17) 18 + auto stop start engine does not seem to start as fast.
Had a loaner 2.7 EB Screw with 10 speed, 10 speed was shifting much more than the 6 speed but again not a issue unless one wants issues.
Tailgate step is a nice added feature that comes in handy. But can rattle when going over bumps.

ONLY issue is in the freeze thaw areas of America the freaking door latches freeze up !!! Now have a 19 and it has a bulletin out on it for frozen door latches.
Another issue can be moon roofs, leaking, breaking tracks or rattling.

Just jumped on the Build a F150 site and built a Lariat which comes with the 2.7 stock and put a 6'.5'' bed on a screw with no issues. So they may be out there in earlier years.

Good luck on your quest.
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19 F150 max tow