The 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty marked the beginning of a new generation, featuring a complete redesign inside and out. This year introduced a stronger frame, new suspension components, an upgraded interior, and a bold exterior look.
The biggest change was the introduction of the new 6.4L Power Stroke diesel, replacing the problematic 6.0L Power Stroke. The 6.4L featured twin sequential turbos for better power and responsiveness, along with improved emissions compliance. However, early 6.4L models were still prone to reliability issues, particularly with the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter), oil dilution, and radiator failures.
With a more aggressive front grille, larger headlights, and an updated cabin, the 2008 F-250 was more refined, powerful, and capable than its predecessor.
2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty Trim Levels & Features
Trim Level
XL (Base Model)
XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)
Lariat (Luxury & Performance Mix)
King Ranch (High-End Luxury & Off-Road Performance)
Harley-Davidson Edition (New for 2008!)
Key Features
- 5.4L V8 Gas Engine (6.8L V10 or 6.4L Diesel optional) - Vinyl seats & flooring - AM/FM radio - Manual windows & locks - Black grille & bumpers - 17” steel wheels
- Cloth seats - Power windows & locks - AM/FM radio with CD player - Chrome grille & bumpers - 18” alloy wheels - Cruise control
- Leather-trimmed seats - Power-adjustable driver’s seat - Woodgrain interior trim - Premium audio system - Fog lights - Keyless entry - Dual-zone climate control
- Exclusive Chaparral Brown leather seats - King Ranch badging & woodgrain trim - Two-tone paint available - Premium sound system - Standard FX4 Off-Road Package - Heated front seats
- Harley-Davidson badging & custom styling - Unique black leather interior - 20” custom wheels - Special exhaust and suspension tuning
Best For
Work truck, fleet use, budget buyers
Work & personal use, budget-friendly with more features
Balanced comfort & towing, ideal for daily use & work
Ranchers, high-end truck buyers, comfort & towing balance
Harley fans, custom truck enthusiasts, performance seekers
Note: The Platinum trim was still NOT available in 2008.
2008 F-250 Super Duty Engine Options & Towing Capacities
Engine
5.4L Triton V8 Gas – 300 HP / 365 lb-ft Torque
6.8L Triton V10 Gas – 362 HP / 457 lb-ft Torque
6.4L Power Stroke Diesel V8 – 350 HP / 650 lb-ft Torque
Max Conventional Towing
8,700 lbs
12,500 lbs
16,500 lbs
Max 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Towing
11,500 lbs
15,000 lbs
18,800 lbs
Max Payload
~3,100 lbs
~3,700 lbs
~4,600 lbs
The new 6.4L Power Stroke featured twin turbochargers for better power and efficiency. However, it had early reliability concerns, particularly with fuel dilution, DPF clogging, and radiator issues.
2008 F-250 Super Duty Cab & Bed Configurations
- Cab Choices: Regular Cab, SuperCab (Extended Cab), Crew Cab
- Bed Lengths: 6.75-ft Short Bed, 8-ft Long Bed
Optional Packages & Features by Trim Level
XL (Base Work Truck)
- Power Equipment Group (adds power windows, locks, keyless entry)
- XL Décor Package (adds upgraded trim and sound insulation)
- Snow Plow Prep Package (heavier alternator, wiring for plow)
- Camper Package (heavier suspension for carrying campers)
Best For: Budget buyers, fleet trucks, worksite use
XLT (Mid-Level Work Truck)
- XLT Convenience Package (adds cruise control, tilt steering wheel)
- FX4 Off-Road Package (adds skid plates, off-road tuned shocks, limited-slip differential)
- Camper Package (heavy-duty rear suspension & stabilizer bars)
- Trailer Tow Package (integrated trailer brake controller, extra cooling)
- Snow Plow Prep Package (for heavy-duty plowing needs)
- Chrome Package (adds chrome grille, tow hooks, exhaust tips)
Best For: Those wanting a well-equipped work truck with more comfort
Lariat (Luxury & Towing Balance)
- Lariat Convenience Package (adds premium audio, dual power seats)
- FX4 Off-Road Package (adds off-road shocks, skid plates, hill descent control)
- 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Hitch Prep Package (adds in-bed hitch mounting points)
- Chrome Package (adds chrome mirror caps, exhaust tips, tow hooks)
- Snow Plow Prep Package
- Camper Package
Best For: Those who want both towing power & comfort for daily use
King Ranch (Luxury & Off-Road Performance)
- King Ranch Leather Package (Chaparral Brown leather seats & wood trim)
- Standard FX4 Off-Road Package (off-road shocks, skid plates)
- Navigation System (optional)
- Power Adjustable Pedals
- 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Prep Available
- Upgraded Premium Sound System
Best For: Buyers wanting a high-end, unique interior with off-road and towing capability
Harley-Davidson Edition (New for 2008)
- Exclusive Harley-Davidson Styling (badges, custom grille, and paint)
- 20” Chrome Wheels
- Unique Black Leather Interior
- Sportier Suspension
- Exclusive Exhaust Tone
Best For: Harley enthusiasts, custom truck lovers
2008 F-250 Super Duty: What’s New Compared to 2007?
1. Completely Redesigned Exterior & Interior
- New front grille, larger headlights, and bigger fender flares
- Upgraded dashboard & new instrument panel
2. New 6.4L Power Stroke Diesel
- Replaced the 6.0L Power Stroke
- Featured twin turbos for improved power
- Better emissions compliance but had early reliability concerns
3. Stronger Frame & Suspension
- More rigid frame for improved towing capacity
- Better front suspension for ride quality
4. New Harley-Davidson Edition
- Exclusive styling, wheels, and badging
Which Trim & Package Should You Get for Towing?
- For Heavy Towing (16,000+ lbs with 5th-Wheel or Gooseneck): → 6.4L Diesel, F-250 Lariat, King Ranch, or
- Harley-Davidson, 5th-Wheel/Gooseneck Package
- For Light-Medium Towing (8,000-12,000 lbs): → XLT or Lariat with the Trailer Tow Package
- For Off-Road & Towing: → FX4 Package + Diesel Engine (on XLT, Lariat, or King Ranch)