The all-new, 2021 F-150 is expected to build on its well-earned history of success with an updated technology-driven interior and more modern designed exterior. It is also expected to have towing and hauling improvements, plus updates in convenience and safety. Newly leaked photos appear to confirm what those technology updates will look like. Ford has not commented on the release of these at this time. 

Over the years, trucks have become more of a family vehicle and not just the practical vehicle that they began as. With this in mind, features you would expect in other higher-end family or luxury sedans are now showing up in the truck world. 

Infotainment 

The first thing that hits you is the giant touchscreen infotainment screen. While the leaked photos shows Ford’s SYNC 3 system, we are hoping for their new Sync 4 system, already announced for the Mustang Mach-E, for final production. 

Ford confirmed their new SYNC 4 infotainment system would be available in multiple screens sizes measuring  8-, 12- and 15.5-inches. The Infotainment system will likely include what Ford is calling Adaptive Dash Cards on the interface as well. This shows recently used or popular features on the system, nixing the need to navigate menus every time you want to launch an app. 

Just to the left of the screen is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist knob, which the F-150 has had since 2016. Moving it higher up will give better ease of use with the large screen next to it for visibility.  

Center Controls

Traditional knobs to adjust tuning, volume, and playing access are still available under the Infotainment screen. Seats will be ventilated and heated along with an actual steering wheel heater button. Prior versions had this feature were in the infotainment system. The drive mode dial and trailer brake controller are located just to the left of the knobs.  

Digital Cluster

There will be a brand new All Digital Display Cluster, which, due to the blurry leaked photo, is difficult to see clearly. Ford decided to keep the traditional blue tones, including sizeable digital RPM and MPH gauges, in the standard round shape. Looking at the center of the cluster, it appears to show an estimated MPG of 21.8. Based on additional leaked information that Ford has not confirmed, they will keep the Ecoboost engines as well as adding a hybrid that’s been widely reported. The hybrid powertrain will incorporate a 3.5-liter gas engine with an electric assist battery-powered motor.

Shifter 

On the center console, there is a good-sized shifter, which, according to FordAuthority, is more important news than the infotainment center. To put to rest concerns, the 2021 F-150 will not have the turn-dial shifter found in other Ford vehicles. 

Instead, it will be a robust shift knob with a high-quality build (shown in the Lariat Edition) trimmed in leather and metal. It will feature a button on the stem allowing the driver to fold down and “stow away” the shifter. This makes a flat surface in the center console and is a rather exciting new feature. 

The official release date has been pushed back. This is due to shifts in production from vehicles to masks and ventilators, caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.  A Ford spokesperson confirmed the debut would not happen on April 29, as shared by multiple outlets, but stopped short of saying when the F-150 will make its official debut. Motor Biscuit will keep you posted on updates as they come.