Pick the model you want and take the engine it comes with, in 4X2

Single cab 6.5 bed XL has the 5.0 and 3:73 gears
Super cab 6.5 bed STX has 2.7 and 3:55

XL will have steel or optional silver wheels
STX will have black painted wheels

Do you like Chrome, black, or body colored bumpers?

So what is the truck you want, regardless of engine?

 

"There is no replacement for displacement."
That has served me very well for decades.

Happy turkey day.

 

Which engine should I get threads are the new which oil should I run threads. Lots of opinions, few facts.

OP, flip a coin I guess. That’s really all you’re going to get here.

 

Its pretty simple really if you’re the kind of guy who doesn’t really care what’s under the hood as long as it gets you from point A to B and you plan on NEVER putting an exhaust on it and don’t mind driving V6 ricer trucks get an ECOBOOST. If you prefer the feel of NA V8 power and the sounds of Bald Eagles wings flapping when you stomp on the gas get the 5.0

 

You really need to drive them all and pick one based upon your needs, commute, etc.

See my signature and that might explain my position.

 

My pops is always like trucks need V8s. Gotta have a V8. Then one day we driving around in ye olden hamster-powered STX. Some punk kid in a Mustang decided to act a fool so we smoke him several times leaving him in the dust. The smile across my pops face makes for an awesome core memory. Yes. He too thinks the hamster is a bad-*** little engine. It doesn't have the rumble of a 'Merican V8 but damn it's a fun engine.

 

it’s hard to imagine that anyone who has driven a 2.7 would still believe in this antiquated statement.

 

First off, they are all pretty reliable motors. If you tell us your use case, it’s easier to pick. I got the 5.0 because I tow often and I tow light. It’s the best combined fuel economy for my use case. If you tow a 30’ TT through mountains for example get 3.5. If it’s mostly a daily commuter, 2.7. A big plus of the 5.0 IMO is it uses 87 gas, in my area much cheaper than 91/93

 

I'm a retired Mechanic. 43 years of it. If you ask any of us mechanics, the overwhelming answer will be the 5.0. They have less problems, and long term you do not have the hair dryer and its bearings etc. to contend with. Short term, buy whatever you choose.

 

As I looked around the lot my salesman asked what I really wanted.
"Do you have any left over 1/2 tons from the late 1960's with a standard transmission?"
He laughed and told me the most common complaint about the new trucks is too much tech.