2026 Ford F-650 Review: The Massive Truck You Didn’t Know You Needed!

The 2026 Ford F‑650 may sound like a familiar name in heavy‑duty vehicles, but this is not a family car in the traditional sense like a mid‑size sedan or a crossover SUV. It’s a medium‑duty truck built primarily for work, hauling and heavy towing. This comprehensive review breaks down what the F‑650 offers in terms that daily commuters and family buyers can understand and compare with more common vehicles. Whether you’re curious about driver comfort, reliability, maintenance costs, or how it stacks up to more fuel‑efficient cars with advanced safety features, here’s a clear, informational look at this massive truck from Ford.

The Ford F‑650 sits well above everyday vehicles like a fuel‑efficient car or family commuter vehicle in size and capability. It’s part of Ford’s medium‑duty truck lineup, designed to tackle demanding work tasks rather than daily school runs or shopping trips. The truck comes with powerful engine choices, including a large gas V8 and a diesel engine option. Depending on configuration, it can carry and tow far more than typical passenger vehicles.

While not designed as a typical commuter vehicle, some buyers with unique needs — such as hauling very large trailers or converting it into a custom vehicle — may consider it. This review looks at strengths, weaknesses, and real‑world practicality for those curious outside the usual truck markets.

Exterior Design & Styling

The Ford F‑650 is immediately notable for its sheer size. Compared with standard trucks and crossover SUVs, it has a much larger frame and higher ground clearance. The design is bold and functional, with a tall hood, a large grille, and heavy‑duty bumpers that speak to its work‑oriented nature.

Unlike stylish family cars that focus on sleek lines, the F‑650’s exterior is built for durability and strength. There’s ample space for customization — from flatbeds to box trucks — but its physical bulk makes it difficult to park or maneuver in tight city areas.

Interior & Cabin Space

Inside, the cabin of the F‑650 is spacious but very utilitarian. Seating is typically configured for two to three passengers, and room is generous compared with smaller cars. The focus here is on function over luxury, with durable materials designed to handle heavy use rather than plush comfort.

Storage can be practical, with large door pockets and integrated trays. However, compared to vehicles optimized for family use, you won’t find much in the way of rear seats or child‑friendly features. Comfort features that commuters expect — like soft seating or extensive infotainment systems — are limited or optional at best.

Engine & Performance

Power is one of the F‑650’s biggest talking points. Buyers can choose between a 7.3‑liter gas V8 and a 6.7‑liter Power Stroke turbo diesel V8. The gas engine produces strong torque for heavy loads, while the diesel option delivers even greater torque for towing.

This truck is tuned for hauling heavy materials and pulling large trailers — not for quick acceleration or agile handling like a typical daily use practical vehicle. The transmission is a heavy‑duty automatic designed to handle high stress and load demands. In everyday driving, especially without a load, acceleration can feel slow and cumbersome.

Fuel Economy & Mileage

Given its purpose, the F‑650’s fuel economy is very different from typical fuel‑efficient cars. Reports suggest heavy‑duty trucks like this can average as little as 7–11 mpg depending on load and driving conditions.

For comparison, most commuters and families expect fuel economy figures in the double digits (20+ mpg) for city driving and higher for highway performance. The F‑650’s fuel usage reflects its size and power — it’s a trade‑off for capability. Daily commuting with this truck would be expensive, especially compared with hybrid or fuel‑efficient vehicles.

Technology & Features

Technology in the F‑650 is basic compared to modern design cars and high‑end infotainment systems found in family sedans and SUVs. Basic connectivity features, such as smartphone integration, may be available, but advanced features are not a priority for the typical buyer.

Driver‑assist technology — when available — focuses on safety while hauling or towing, such as optional collision warnings or lane alerts. However, this area is not as rich as what’s standard in many passenger vehicles today.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety in heavy‑duty trucks like the F‑650 focuses on structural strength and driver control under load. Available systems may include features like forward collision warning and lane‑keeping alerts, helping while navigating larger roads.

However, it’s important to note this truck is not designed with typical family car safety expectations in mind. Things like child seat anchors and extensive airbag coverage common in family vehicles are not the primary design targets here.

Driving Experience & Ride Quality

The driving experience in the F‑650 is very different from a commuter vehicle. The ride quality is stiff, and the steering can feel heavy without a load. Visibility is excellent due to the high seating position, but everyday driving — especially in urban environments — can feel intimidating.

This truck feels at home on open roads and job sites but less so in city traffic where smaller cars and SUVs excel. If you are used to sedans or compact SUVs, the transition to this truck’s handling and ride quality will be significant.

Pricing & Trim Levels

Pricing for the F‑650 varies widely based on configuration, engine choice, and whether it includes specialized equipment. Base models start at a high price compared with everyday vehicles. Additional features, such as diesel engines or cab upgrades, increase cost further.

Unlike competitive pricing seen in the family car segment, where multiple trims offer value, the F‑650’s price tag reflects its industrial strengths. Buyers should budget more for heavy‑duty components and customization options.

Competition & Rivals

The F‑650 competes with other medium and heavy‑duty trucks from manufacturers like Chevrolet, GMC, and International. These rivals offer similar towing, engine power, and customization options. Compared with lighter trucks or family vehicles, none of these rivals are designed for daily use or commuter duty.

For a typical buyer looking for a family‑friendly vehicle, alternatives like mid‑size sedans or crossover SUVs provide better ride comfort, technology, and fuel economy.

Who Should Buy This

This truck is best suited for business owners, fleet operators, or individuals who regularly need to haul heavy loads or equipment. It’s not recommended as a family car or commuter vehicle due to its size, fuel use, and limited comfort features. If you need strength, towing capacity, and modular trim options for work, then the F‑650 may be worth considering.

If your primary use is school runs, courier trips, or weekend family outings, traditional fuel‑efficient cars or crossover SUVs are far better choices.

Final Verdict

The 2026 Ford F‑650 is a purpose‑built medium duty truck with impressive strength and hauling ability. It offers powerful engine options, customizable space, and rugged build quality that many lighter trucks cannot match.

However, for daily use practicality, city driving, and long‑term ownership as a family vehicle, it’s not a sensible choice. Its fuel economy, limited comfort features, and handling challenges place it outside what typical commuters or family buyers need. Those seeking reliability, resale value, and advanced safety features in a daily driver will find better options in the passenger vehicle market.

In summary, the F‑650 excels as a heavy‑duty workhorse but falls short of the expectations everyday drivers have for comfort, efficiency, and everyday practicality.