Hardware
It might have tissue storage inside, but the new 2011 Ford F-Series Super Duty is endowed with nothing but manliness under the hood. Buyers can choose between two new engines: a 6.2-liter gasoline V-8 or a 6.7-liter turbodiesel V-8.

The E85-compatible, 6.2-liter V-8 makes more horsepower and torque than the old 5.4-liter V-8, and despite its added displacement is more fuel efficient, but we need to take Ford's word for it because as this is written in early October of 2009, official specifications have not been released. For comparison purposes, the old V-8 made 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,750 rpm.

Ford also says the 6.7-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel, which replaces the current 6.4-liter turbodiesel in the powertrain lineup, is stronger, stouter, and thriftier than before. Additionally, it is cleaner, designed to meet tough new 2010 standards for nitrous-oxide emissions. Again, no solid specifications are available for this new engine, but Ford is tossing around "best in class" descriptions for fuel economy, towing and payload capacity. As a reminder, the current PowerStroke turbodiesel makes 350 horsepower at 3,000 rpm and 650 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,000 rpm. The new turbodiesel is also biodiesel compatible up to a B20 rating.

Paired to the new engines is a new automatic transmission. The 6-speed TorqShift transmission features Progressive Range Select, which allows the driver to reduce the range of gears while driving. There's also a Tow/Haul mode, and Ford's SelectShift manual gear selection feature. When paired to the PowerStroke turbodiesel, a Line Drive Power Take-off (PTO) allows the transmission to power auxiliary equipment such as a snow plow, tow-truck lift, or cement mixer.

Ford has also made an electronic locking differential available on the new Super Duty. With the flip of a switch, the driver can lock the left and right axle shafts together for 50/50 power distribution, which helps maintain momentum and optimize traction when driving off-road or in the muck.

Ford engineers also optimized the Super Duty's frame, refined its suspension, and replaced its steering with a new symmetrical setup that aims to improve feel, response and precision. Modifications to spring rates and shock valving refine the ride quality while managing even greater towing and payload capacities. Speaking of towing and payload capacities, when properly outfitted, a 2011 Ford F-450 will have a 33,000-pound gross combined weight rating. Schnikes!