The King Ranch edition takes the already well-equipped Lariat model and adds the unique natural-leather upholstery, captain’s chairs, heated front seats, a center console, an upgraded stereo with six-disc CD changer, fog lights, illuminated running boards and special alloy wheels. The ranch was founded in 1853 by steamboat captain Richard King, and continues to produce cattle and crops in Texas, and on property the company owns in Florida.įord wanted to build a very upscale F-150, and King Ranch wanted to enhance its national profile, so the marriage prospers.
Ford struck up a partnership with the 825,000-acre ranch in South Texas – a ranch that is, incidentally, bigger than Rhode Island – in 2000, in time to introduce the first King Ranch model as a 2001. Price is not likely to be a consideration to the King Ranch buyer. You can get four-wheel-drive, but you’ll need to add about $3,000 to the sticker. And two: the fact that the truck costs $35,000, and still doesn’t have four-wheel-drive. Not necessary, as two other things reminded us we were driving an F-150 King Ranch: One, the superb leather upholstery featuring hides from the King Ranch in Texas.
From side badges to floor mats to the center of the wheels, you are reminded it’s the flagship Ford pickup. In no fewer than 17 places, the 2003 Ford F-150 SuperCrew King Ranch edition either says “King Ranch” or has the ranch’s brand visible somewhere inside and outside the truck.