has always been renowned for its line of pickups. And when looking for a full-size truck, it might seem difficult to choose between them, and the decision may come down to the Ford F-150 vs. F-250. While the F-150 is classified as a light-duty pickup, the F-250 is considered medium duty.

When it comes to the Ford F-150 vs F-250,

Consumer Reports

highlights that the F-250 falls short in several essential categories, including fuel economy, road handling, and transmission performance. However, some owners may wish to overlook these flaws in favor of its higher towing capacity and workhorse diesel engine. Otherwise? The Ford F-150 vs. F-250 battle is won by the F-150—the light-duty truck.

The Ford F-150 and F-250 are both incredibly capable trucks.

Ford F-150 vs. F-250: the jack of all trades, or the workhorse?

The Ford F-150 is America’s most popular truck, and has been for decades. But when it comes down choosing between the Ford-F-150 vs. F-250, Consumer Reports lays down the facts.

Though neither vehicle is recommended by the third party consumer watchdog, it’s worth noting that when comparing the Ford F-150 vs. the F-250, the F-150 leads in:

Fuel economy: 13 mpg in-town, and an impressive 26 mpg on the highway

Road handling and testing: It outranks the F-250 in emergency handling, braking ability, and has higher quality headlights.

Cabin quality and comfort: When comparing the Ford-150 vs. F-250, the smaller F-150 has less audible engine noise, a more comfortable driver’s seat, and smoother ride.

More:

This Ford Truck Is so Popular, Production Is Doubling

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Is the Ford F-250’s purpose unclear?

For drivers who are shopping around for a pickup, the F-250 may not stand out much in comparison to the smaller F-150, or even the larger, heavy-duty F-350.

According to critics, the F-250 is held back by its lackluster, diesel-guzzling engine, while still lacking the towing capacity of a heavy-duty pickup.

Potential owners may feel limited by it’s 10 mpg rating in-town, and 20 mpg max on the open road. Although it has an impressive towing capacity of 15,000 lbs, otherwise, it has minimal to no improvements in performance over the F-150 (aside from towing capacity).

More: Safety Over Power: Here Are the 3 Safest Ford Models

The F-150: The clear winner

In the Ford F-150 vs. F-250 competition, most drivers will be better off choosing the F-150. Why? The F-150’s superior

fuel economy

, road handling, driver comforts, and lower base price.

Though the F-150 has half the

towing

capacity of the F-250 at 7,700 lbs, the F-150 has plenty of pulling power,as much as most pick-up owners would need for a boat, RV, or small trailer. So unless you plan on regularly towing massive payloads, the F-150 is the more practical option.

Don’t forget the car insurance

For future or current pick-up owners, whether it’s a Ford or not,

Jerry

can help you insure your truck. With the nation's most affordable rates brought straight to your phone in minutes, you’ll be able to choose the policy and type of coverage that fits your lifestyle and needs as a driver. Signup today—we make finding

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Ford Pickup Trucks

Written By

Jason Crosby · Expert Insurance Writer

Jason Crosby is an insurance writer who specializes in offering unique insights to help people stay informed about current and trending events in the automotive industry. Jason’s mission is to create useful and incisive content drivers can use to lower car ownership costs. Jason has published over 300 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from EV ownership to automotive legal battles. Before joining Jerry’s team, Jason worked as a freelancer for several Seattle- and Austin-based publications. His research and contributions have been featured in publications for industries from mental health to politics.

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