Verdict
One car will be the hot new release this year, the Ford F-150 Lightning from 2022. It is expected to have a major impact on sales volume and consumer interest in trucking for the American market.
For off-road enthusiasts, a truck like the GMC Hummer EV and Rivian R1T might be a better choice, but for anyone who needs the power of a truck, there’s still only one option—the F-150 Lightning. It’s a whole new world for Ford, but in reality it’s still the same pickup we’ve known and loved all along.
| Quick Stats | 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat ER |
| Motors: | Dual Permanent Magnet |
| Output: | 580 Horsepower / 775 Pound-Feet |
| Battery: | 131.0 Kilowatt-Hour |
| Range: | 320 Miles |
| As-Tested Price: | $81,124 |
Design
- Exterior Color: Rapid Red
- Interior Color: Black
- Wheel Size: 20 Inches
The Lightning sports a familiar SUV profile – a Ford F-150 based design. Weeks ago when I tested the Rivian R1T, I had daily conversations with people who were curious about it. Not a single person asked about the Ford, save one guy who gave a thumbs up while he jogged by.
Rivian and GMC are two different car manufacturers that offer a similar vehicle. The Lightning has the classic Tesla style with a lightbar connecting the headlights to create one illuminated element, and has a unique grille for improved aerodynamics. The lower intake area with active slats cool the battery or reduce drag, just as on the Mustang Mach-E.
This electric Lariat features 20-inch alloys in gray, with an aerodynamic design. Gray is a subtle contrast to the vibrant Repel Red that the truck is painted with, and it goes well with the dark wheel design. The only other indication of this vehicle running on electrons is the blue “Lightning” wordmark on the side of the bed, and of course the lack of exhaust out back.
The F-150’s cabin design incorporates Ford’s winning formula, featuring simplicity and straightforwardness with novel features like a fold-flat work surface. Wood trim adorns the door panels and sections of the dash, but black material dominates the space. All-black interior is the most exciting to look at, but it will likely stand up well over time.
Comfort
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Seating Configuration: 2/3
- Cargo Volume: 14.1 / 52.8 Cubic Feet
Although the Lightning doesn’t have a groundbreaking interior, it makes up for it with its superb overall space. Both rows of seats have plenty of room to easily stretch out in any direction and enough legroom to accommodate people of any size. Don’t overlook the major size advantage that you get compared to the R1T. Although this is a bigger truck, you’re rewarded with interior space that fares much better on a long trip.
On the mountain roads, driving this Ford Lightning is a safe and reliable experience. There are only two types of suspension available as standard: independent rear suspension (IRS) and independent front suspension (IFS). The shock absorbers mounted on top of the IRS’s link arms make for a smooth riding ride.
Worldwide, electric vehicles have seen a rise in popularity, with models such as the Tesla boasting near-instantaneous acceleration and top speed of 155 mph. Lightning is one of these models that scores well on acceleration and maneuverability tests – but not so well for noise privy to the inside cabin.
| Interior Dimensions | Headroom, Front/Rear | Legroom, Front/Rear | Frunk/Cargo Box Volume |
| 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning | 40.8 / 40.4 Inches | 43.9 / 43.6 Inches | 14.1 / 52.8 Cubic Feet |
| 2022 Ford F-150 (ICE) | 40.8 / 40.4 Inches | 43.9 / 43.6 Inches | N/A / 52.8 Cubic Feet |
| 2022 GMC Hummer EV | 42.5 / 38.6 Inches | 45.6 / 38.9 Inches | 11.3 / 36.7 Cubic Feet |
| 2022 Rivian R1T | 41.1 / 38.1 Inches | 41.4 / 36.6 Inches | 11.0 / 29.2 Cubic Feet |
Technology & Connectivity
- Center Display: 15.5-inch Touchscreen
- Instrument Cluster Display: 12.0 Inches
- Wireless AppleCarPlay / Android Auto: Yes/Yes
The most significant upgrade when purchasing a Lightning Lariat is the increased battery range and bundle. The extended battery pack can provide an obvious increase in range, but it also includes a 10k price with the bundle.
The increase in battery capacity makes this an attractive option for some people. Ford has also included features like the Charge Station Pro, which allows 80 amp charging at home, and Intelligent Power Backup, the truck that’s a generator if your house loses power. To take full advantage of these advanced features, you need to tick this box (and then hire a good electrician)
The standard features of a 15.5-inch touchscreen and 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster are also standard in the all-aluminum, V8 SuperCrew version of the Taurus.
They include easy, intuitive Sync 4 infotainment that comes with supporting technologies such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other examples of integrated, high quality design include controls that are easy to use and use on the fly without taking your eyes off the road.
