2003 Ford F150 SVT Lightning review from North America

Upper Control arm bolts on left front wheel suspension replaced after nearly 4,000 miles - repaired at no cost under warranty by dealer.

I bought the SVT after sending the old F150 XLT in for work at the dealer. Since I am a truck guy, this is not a step, but a JUMP up from the older F150 models floating around. My family used to run modified cars at Indianapolis in summertime, so... putting these two points together it made sense for me to be interested in the SVT F150. Unlike some others writing reviews, I actually own this truck and have owned other makes and models, too.

The handling compared to other stock trucks is very gratifying with the independent front suspension and stock F1 tires. It isn't a sports car, but will shame cars that are classified as sports cars at a considerably lower price... even with a curb weight in excess of 2 tons!

Acceleration from a stop is phenomenal, especially when the M112 Eaton blower screams at you... but be prepared to "feed the beast" as mileage is directly proportional to the speed driven. Mine is typically 10-16 mpg with normal driving using 92 or better octane levels.

Comfort level compared to my old 1994 F150 XLT is light years ahead. The leather interior and 60/40 split bench seats with lumbar supports make this truck a long-distance Godsend compared to the old bench seats. When SVT Customer service asked me what my opinion was (they ask ALL SVT owners, eventually) on my new truck, I told them about the drabness of the interior front console... and guess what... they must have listened to us SVT owners because the newer models will be changed.

This truck isn't made for your typical "work-a-day" person, but it still has utility. I've used it to haul landscaping & construction debris... and it comes with a Class 3 tow package rated at over 5,000 lbs.

The bottom line is, if you want truck with motor and aren't too worried about utility, this is your dream muscle-truck...but be prepared to pay for it.

<GRIN>