Ford Australia has opened the order books for its F-150 pickup this week, the four-variant range priced from AUD$106,950 plus on-road costs and offering what Ford Australia says are “generous standard features for customers that want an uncompromising truck for work and play”.

Short and long-wheelbase F150s will be available in several trim levels including XLT and Lariat, each backed by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre manufacturer warranty.

Ford Australia says the reintroduction of the F-Series comes after significant demand from local customers. The model has undergone extensive re-engineering work by the Blue Oval’s Aussie engineers and RMA Automotive and promises to be ideally suited to the harsh local environment.

“As an iconic full-size American pickup, the F-150 is joining Australian showrooms thanks to an extensive and meticulous local re-engineering program,” explained Ford Australia F-150 assistant programme engineer, Tom Dohrmann.

Both the F-150 XLT and Lariat will be powered by Ford’s 298kW/678Nm 3.5-litre EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine coupled to a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. Crew Cab bodies with four-wheel drive will be the only configuration available.

The F-150 is available in short or long-wheelbase format, the former measuring 3683mm between the axles and with a 1676mm-long style-side box and the latter 3987mm in wheelbase with a 1981mm-long style-side box.

All variants offer a braked towing capacity of 4500kg.

For the F-150 XLT, standard equipment includes 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome bumpers, black running boards, tailgate step and Tough Bed spray-in tub liner.

The Lariat is differentiated by a premium mesh-style grille with chrome frame, chrome appearance package including wing mirror caps, door handles, belt mouldings, tow hooks and running boards, a powered twin-panel moonroof, and LED head, fog and tail lights.

The big question now is directed at Ford New Zealand: when will Kiwis join the party?