The 2013 Ford Super Duty trucks are offered in F-250, F-350 and F-450 models, designating progressively higher tow and weight ratings. Compared to light-duty, full-size trucks, like the F-150, the Super Duty models have a stronger structure, along with heavy-duty components throughout and a powertrain lineup chosen for sheer pulling and hauling ability.

Ford Super Duty trim levels include XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum. Throughout the lineup, there's a choice of two different engines -- either a 385-horsepower, 6.2L gasoline V8, or a 400-horsepower, 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine. The gasoline engine is also compatible with E85 (85 percent ethanol) and can be equipped for propane or compressed natural gas (CNG), which might make it attractive for fleet use. However, in any sort of practical use, the diesel engine, with its mammoth 800 pound-feet of torque, comes out far ahead of the gas engine's 405 pound-feet. No matter which engine, the Super Duty trucks come with a heavy-duty 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

F-350 and F-450 models get a reinforced frame and hitch system compared to F-250 models. Both the F-350 and F-450 are also offered in a dual-rear-wheel (DRW) configuration for better stability with heavy loads. Models with a conventional bumper hitch can tow up to 17,500 pounds, while those that upgrade to a fifth-wheel hitch can manage up to 24,500 pounds.

All single-rear-wheel models of the Super Duty trucks come with electronic stability control plus trailer sway control and hill start assist to help with standing starts on steep uphill slopes. Anti-lock brakes are also included and an integrated trailer brake controller is available. Integrated exhaust braking -- like that of big rigs -- is on the options list with the diesel, while Hill Descent Control also helps on slippery downhills, even when towing. Big PowerScope trailer-tow mirrors are also available. Heavy-duty buyers no longer need to forgo additional airbags -- side seat airbags and side-curtain bags with a roll sensor are included.

Ford's SYNC with MyFord Touch in-dash multimedia system is standard on Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum models. It features an 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, with access to climate controls, phone, entertainment, and navigation features, along with voice control. The display also shows view from the rear backup camera.

The options list for the F-Series Super Duty Trucks isn't as comfort-and-luxury-oriented as that of the F-150, though trucks at the top of the range can be ordered as luxuriously as you please. Some innovative specialized features, such as a Ford Work Solutions Crew Chief system for fleets and a Cable Lock security system for equipment, are geared toward those who use the Super Duty for serious work, like at a construction site.

Flexibility For Commercial Use

Tougher Than Standard Full-size Trucks

Class-leading Tow Ratings

Power Stroke Diesel's 800 Pound-feet Of Torque

Full Roster Of Safety Features

Ford's commercial-oriented Super-Duty trucks return for 2013 with plenty of small changes. Among them is an improved braking system, including a larger parking brake and bigger front and rear brake rotors. The gross vehicle weight rating has increased to a class-leading 14,000 pounds. Other changes include the addition of a new Platinum series model, which features a perforated mesh grille with satin chrome surround and other exterior touches, while inside you'll find premium wood grain surfaces, a heated leather steering wheel and more.

Ford's exclusive SYNC with MyFord Touch is new for 2013. It's standard on Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum models. The system includes an 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, with access to climate controls, phone, entertainment, and navigation features, along with voice control. The display also shows view from the rear backup camera.

New exterior colors include Blue Jeans Metallic, Kodiak Brown Metallic and Ruby Red Metallic.

The F-Series Super Duty trucks bear a resemblance to the ubiquitous, best-selling F-150 pickups. These Super Duty models are made to serve an especially pure purpose -- to reliably, safely and confidently haul heavy loads or heavy trailers, day after day. What's surprising is that these workhorses are actually quite comfortable -- and almost luxurious -- inside.

Ford boasts that their PowerStroke diesel engine is the most powerful diesel pickup engine on the market and that the Super Duty F-350 DRW (dual rear wheel) model has a best-in-class payload (7,110 pounds) and fifth-wheel tow rating (22,700), as well as a best-in-class conventional tow rating of 17,500 pounds.