I have been one of the skeptics refusing to get caught up in the wave of "FORD-LOVE"; trying to keep an open mind. Yesterday I finally found the time to drive the new 04, and yes, it is a much better truck than the 03, so I may be in love again.
I'm targeting a regular cab- flareside, and would prefer 2wd so I'll have to settle for the XLT trim, reluctantly. I ask for some opinions:
Questions:
1. Which engine choice: 5.4 with 3.55LS or 4.6 with 3.73LS? I'd like the best gas mileage available, but will be pulling a 2500lb boat.
2. Any guess on what a "reasaonable" gas mileage will be?

I'm also looking at the catalog, and wondering what the Lariat SuperCab with a 5.5 foot bed would be like. Sur am attracted to the Lariat trimmings.

 

'04 XLT SuperCab 2wd 6.5' bed, 5.4, 3.55's:

Average MPG mixed driving: 17.5-18MPG.

I would definitely get the 5.4 for towing. Some will bitch about the 3.55 gears, but they are perfectly fine unless you're towing > 6k a lot of the time. I tow sometimes and have yet to have any complaint about the 3.55's.

 

i am in the same boat. but definitely getting the screw, 4x4 either a loaded fx4 or a larait. i need/want the 5.4 and that is standard on the fx4 and lariat. you see the hwy mileage sticker on the new 04 5.4 liters? 19mpg on a 4x4? damn. look at the towing post in this forum,

what do you mean "what will a lariat screw be like?"


they are a lot more money if that is what you meant.......the one i am looking at is msrp like 37,000 dollars

 

Fuel milage on 04 5.4 4x4 is 14 to 18

You will get 13 to 15.

Closer to 13.


Mlke

 

Go for the 5.4. More torque, HP, and mileage is better than my 4.6.

 

I have the supercab with the 5.5' bed... take a look at my gallery... It was my favorite choice between all of the styles... I need the back seat but not a crew cab.. and I need the occasional truck bed, but not very often. I think it is the most proportional looking...

I don't think you'll go wrong with the supercab and short bed... if your needs are like mine...