Another big part of the utility of a pickup truck is its cargo box (some would say that's the only appeal of a pickup) and Ford has paid attention here. New F-150 boxes are offered in "Styleside" or "Flareside" versions and in 8-foot (2,438 mm), 6 1⁄2-foot (1,981 mm), and 5 1⁄2-foot (1,676 mm) lengths. The Flareside resembles older Ford models with deeper, fender-like wheel flares and a tailgate that flares outward at its upper edge for a "spoiler effect."

The improved box on the 2004 F-150 is nearly 12 percent better than the current F-150, 13 percent better than Chevrolet and 42 percent larger than Toyota's 6-foot box, Ford says. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

The boxes are 2.25 inches (57 mm) deeper than the current model, improving cargo volume. The added depth, for example, gives the 6 ½-foot box a total cargo capacity of 65 cubic feet (1,841 L), which is nearly 12 percent better than the current F-150, 13 percent better than Chevrolet and 42 percent larger than Toyota's 6-foot box, Ford says.

In addition, the F-150 SuperCab 5 ½- foot box is something altogether new, a unique feature that allows the truck to fit into many garages.

The F-150 will feature a "class-exclusive" standard Tailgate Assist feature, helping owners of all statures and physical abilities to open and close the gate more easily. (Photo: Ford Motor Company)

Typically, the F-150's box is constructed in steel, lacking GM's lightweight, rustproof plastic bed, nor does it have the side cargo doors or the built-in cargo rails like the new Nissan Titan. The Titan also has small, lockable compartments along the side of its box. For many potential customers, though, the new F-150's larger cab size outweighs each competitive truck's alternative merits.

Finally, the Ford pickup will feature a "class-exclusive" standard Tailgate Assist feature, helping owners of all statures and physical abilities to open and close the gate more easily. "The Tailgate Assist reduces the force needed to open and close the tailgate from 28 pounds of force to 18 pounds," Davis said. "You'd swear it was aluminum."