Skip to main content

We’re both excited and perplexed by the Ford F-250. It’s adding a few new convenience features, which is great. However, why did it take the Ford F-250 and other Super Duty models to gain these updates, and why are the new features straight from the Chevrolet Silverado’s playbook? 

The Ford F-250 has convenience features from the Chevy Silverado 2500 

The 2023 Ford F-250 borrowed bumper steps from the Chevrolet Silverado
2023 Ford F-250 | Ford

As trucks like the Ford F-250 get bigger, the truck beds get higher off the ground, and the sides of the truck bed get taller. This can make it more challenging to access cargo in the rear and presents the need for a solution that goes beyond side steps 

So, Chevrolet first introduced bumpers steps with the Chevy Avalanch back in 2002. This provided people with the ability to quickly step up and access their cargo or store items. Then in 2014, General Motors adopted this idea for its entire line of pickup trucks. 

Skip forward a few years, and now the 2023 Ford F-Series Super Duty line is getting new bed steps. The bed steps are on the sides of the truck bed, and there are also corner steps to improve access. 

According to MotorTrend, the steps are a standard feature across the entire Ford Super Duty lineup. Each truck from the XL and Limited or from the F-250 or F-450 will get these access points on both sides. All bed lengths, single, and dual-rear-wheel drive models get them too. 

Does the F-250 have a better multi-function tailgate? 

Both Ford and General Motors trucks have multi-functional tailgates. The Ford F-250 got its tailgate step back in 2009, and the GMC MultiPro tailgate was introduced in 2019. Both options have a fold-out step that rests inside the tailgate while not in use. 

The Ford tailgate can be used remotely to open, close, and release the tailgate step. It should hold between 350 to 400 lbs and includes a retractable railing to hold. It pairs with a few work-friendly features. 

For example, there are clamps and a built-in ruler, allowing people to measure, secure, and cut wood. It has a tablet holder, cup holder, flat surface, and pencil organizer. Plus, the ProPower Onboard Generator is helpful for powering tools and work sites.

What can the MulitPro tailgate do?

The Chevrolet Silverado has a MultiPro tailgate
2023 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 | General Motors

The GMC MulitPro tailgate does a bit more. It features a panel that can be flipped up to be used as a bed extender with a vertical barrier. Plus, it can be raised to create a load stop and to separate items. 

Lower the inner gate to be nine inches closer to the bed. This makes loading heavy cargo easier. Also, the fold-out step is a bit heftier than the Ford F-250 one.

It can support up to 375 lbs and is paired with a retractable railing stored in the bed. The handle can be locked in place. When the step is down, the back of the bed can be used as a convenient work surface. 

Last but not least, the tailgate has an audio system that can connect devices via Bluetooth, an auxiliary port, and a USB port. It works independently from the main sound system.

Rumors suggest that Ford is working on a new design that borrows from the Ram 1500. The tailgate could have a 40/60 split to provide closer access to the bed while still including a fold-out step. 

So Ford is looking at all of its rivals to improve access. We can’t wait to see how large and durable the Ford F-250 bumper steps are.