Consumer Reports has posted one of the first reviews we’ve seen of the all-new 2015 F-150 pickup truck, Ford’s most important launch of the year.

Tom Mutchler drove the F-150 equipped with the 325hp 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and found the downsized unit to be surprisingly responsive, delivering almost effortless performance. Furthermore, he described as better to drive than the Silverado with the 5.3-liter engine.

The “secret” lies in the 2.7-liter EcoBoost’s 375lb-ft (508Nm) of peak torque and obviously the 2015 F-150 lighter weight thanks to the extensive use of aluminum.

According to the folks from Consumer Reports, the most important thing about the 2015 F-150 is fuel economy. They estimate that the Ford won’t beat the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel’s 20 mpg (11.7 l/100km) overall rating, but has a pretty good shot at being more economical than the Silverado, which is EPA-rated at 16 mpg (14.7 l/100km).

Scroll down to watch the complete review as well as the latest episode of Talking Cars with Consumer Reports, also dedicated to the 2015 F-150.

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