I went from a 2005 F150 to a 2015 F150. Both are great trucks. My 2005 I bought new and was an XLT that I modded so much it had more upgrades than the Lariat of the same generation by the time I was done. When I bought the 2015 new I got a Lariat in exactly what I wanted because I had done the mod upgrade thing already. There are a few things I have done to the 2015 but mostly it is stock. I did not think I would like the new truck is much as I do but it has really surprised me how nice it is to have.

All that is to say I really don't think it will make much difference as long as you have a good idea of what you want and/or need in a truck. I did not really like the 2009 to 2014 style as well and waited for the 2015's but that is subjective. If a good used 2014 has all the features you want then that is probably what you should do. If you can live without some of the bells and whistles are more comfortable with a new truck then maybe that is best. Good luck in your decision!

 

See if you have the "Sport" mode setting on your transmission; there is a button on the gearshift lever, push it once you get "Tow", push it twice you get "Sport". Sport mode keeps the trans in lower gears and keeps the idle higher, so there is less turbo lag.

If you have a 4x4, I don't think you get this "Sport" mode. Mine is a 2016 4x2 3.5 Turbo.

 

I would rather have a 2015+ XL Sport than a 2014 in any trim.

 

Let's say you upgraded to a 2014 FX4 or Lariat. Basically you're getting some Lariat or FX4 badges on the outside and wheel lip mouldings and different wheels. Inside, cheap plastic with fake leather, and the outdated and controversial MyFord Touch. Possibly an engine issue since the EB's were first gen. And an outdated body and arguably uglier look.

On the other hand the lower 2016 model will have the wheel lip mouldings on an XL or XLT Sport that you had to upgrade to a Lariat to get on the 2014. So now your 2016 XL looks better than your 2014 Lariat upgrade minus the chrome wheels. FX4 on any trim now. Inside on the 2016, a much nicer interior than any of the 2014s. I'd take a 2016 XLT and go all the way down to a 2016 mid XL cloth interior over the best 2014 interior.

And on the lower 2016 you get the new aluminum body, new frame, either an upgraded 6 speed or the new 10 speed, engine upgrades, etc. All for about the same price or less than the 2014 upgrade that doesn't seem like an upgrade. I've been looking at used 2013-2014s XLTS and they are too close in price to the nicer used 2015-2016s XL and XLTs. And 2014 Lariats are the same or more than 2016 XLTs and they give nothing of substance over the 2016 models.

I'll only buy a 2014 if I find a bargain. Otherwise I'm going with the best 2016 I can afford.

 

Great info Rambo! I was unaware of the interior trim levels in the newer models vs the 2014 models. Looking at some of the 2015 models on autotrader, that may be the way I'm leaning right now. I will definitely take a look at a few in person, Thanks!

I originally wanted to stay with the 5.0 engine as I really do not have a need for the EB. I tow an RV occasionally, a pontoon boat pretty regular, and various other trailers here and there. Nothing the 5.0 couldn't handle with ease. I live in South Alabama, so not concerned with pulling any hills, and I really don't tow the RV over 200 miles ever.

That said, I see a lot of EBs on the road, and even though I have read about some issues, and am a little concerned with turbo lifetime, I see a lot of happy EB owners out there. So, I am tempted to try one out because, well why not.

I appreciate the info gentlemen and women if any. For future reference, I'll put my wants below that I'm pretty set on getting.

4wd

Bigger screen for entertainment center, mainly for backup camera viewing

Non-flip center console, whatever its called, I hate the flip up center consoles

Heated/cooled seats would be a bonus, but I could live without them

Would prefer projector or led headlights