2023+ Ford Superduty Engine Guide: Unmatched Power and Innovation

by | Jul 22, 2025 | F250, F350, F450

Howdy from the Hillbilly HQ parts shop.  Today we are excioted to talk about the latest addition to the Superduty engine stable.  So yehaw, let’s jump in.

The fifth generation of the Ford Superduty (2023–Present) marks a major evolution in capability, performance, and engine technology. Whether you’re towing 30,000+ pounds or outfitting a fleet of work trucks, understanding the engine options is critical to making the right choice.

This guide breaks down each of the gas and diesel engine powerplants available in the 2023+ Superduty lineup—from the new 6.8L gas V8 to the record-setting 6.7L High Output Powerstroke diesel.

Gas Engine Options

6.8L V8 — The New Standard

Power: 405 hp @ TBD RPM
Torque: 445 lb-ft @ TBD RPM
Design: Overhead Valve (OHV), Pushrod
Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded
Transmission: 10-speed TorqShift Automatic

Replacing the outgoing 6.2L, this engine shares architecture with the 7.3L Godzilla but is tuned for smoother response and cost-effective utility. Ideal for fleet buyers and light-duty work applications.

Key Features:

Cast-iron block with aluminum heads
Torque peaks low in the RPM range
Simplified valvetrain = easier serviceability
Great for cold starts and low-end hauling

Reliability:

Life Expectancy: ~250,000–300,000+ miles (projected)
Known Issues: None reported as of 2025
Notes: Built off the proven 7.3L platform—durable, efficient, and easy to maintain

7.3L “Godzilla” V8 — Big Block Brute Force

Power: 430 hp @ 5,500 RPM
Torque: 485 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
Design: OHV, 2-valve Pushrod
Fuel Type: Regular Unleaded
Transmission: 10-speed TorqShift

Carried over with refinements, the 7.3L Godzilla continues as the ultimate gas-powered workhorse—massive torque, simple design, and legendary durability.

Highlights:

Forged steel crankshaft and pistons
Cross-bolted main caps
Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Huge aftermarket and upfit support

Reliability:
Life Expectancy: ~300,000–400,000+ miles
Known Issues: Few to none; extremely robust bottom end
Notes: Ideal for high payloads, RVs, fleets, and commercial chassis

Diesel Engine Options

6.7L Powerstroke V8 (Standard Output)

Power: 475 hp @ 2,600 RPM
Torque: 1,050 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
Design: Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) Block, Aluminum Heads
Turbo: Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT)
Fuel System: High-Pressure Common Rail

Ford refined the standard 6.7L Powerstroke once again—making it one of the smoothest, most capable diesels on the road.

Key Upgrades:

Enhanced injector spray and combustion efficiency
Improved cooling jets and piston design
Quieter operation with better turbo response
Emissions system enhancements (EGR, SCR)

Reliability:

Life Expectancy: ~400,000–500,000+ miles
Known Issues: Very few in 2023+ models
Notes: Balanced power and reliability—ideal for everyday diesel users

6.7L Powerstroke HO — The King of Torque

Power: 500 hp @ 2,600 RPM
Torque: 1,200 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM
Design: Strengthened CGI Block and Upgraded Internals
Turbo: Advanced VGT with Revised Cooling
Transmission: 10-speed TorqShift HD

The High Output variant takes Ford diesel power to record levels—dominating gooseneck, 5th-wheel, and commercial-grade towing.

What Makes It Special:
Stronger internals than standard 6.7L
Class-leading torque and power
Tailored for extreme towing and high-altitude hauling
Available primarily in F-450 and F-550 configurations

Reliability:

Life Expectancy: ~400,000–500,000+ miles
Known Issues: None known to date; closely monitored under commercial loads
Notes: Built for the toughest jobs; not just powerful, but durable and refined

Engine Spec Summary

Engine
6.8L V8
7.3L Godzilla V8
6.7L Power Stroke Diesel
6.7L HO Power Stroke Diesel
Horsepower
405 hp
430 hp
475 hp
500 hp
Torque
445 lb-ft
485 lb-ft
1,050 lb-ft
1,200 lb-ft
Key Notes
Budget-friendly; modern base engine
Big block gas power; simple and reliable
Excellent diesel for general HD towing
Ultimate torque; commercial-grade strength

What Makes the 5th Gen Special?

1. Fully Redesigned Chassis & Powertrain Integration

Massive updates to electronics, cooling, and engine management systems for better towing and drivability.

2. Class-Leading Diesel Torque (Again)

Ford remains on top of the torque wars—HO Powerstroke outguns all rivals in real-world hauling.

3. Smart Towing Tech

Enhanced Pro Trailer Assist
Integrated Onboard Scales
Smart Hitch System
360° Trailer Camera Options

4. Customizable Fleet and Work Configs

With 4 engine choices, multiple trim levels, and advanced upfit support, Superduty remains king for commercial and personal use alike.

Tuning & Mods Tips

Gas Engines:

PCM tuning for throttle response and towing behavior
Long-tube headers and cat-back exhausts
Cold air intakes and upgraded valve components

Diesel Engines:

Intercooler upgrades and turbo outlet pipes
CP4-to-CP3 conversion kits (for added reliability)
EGR-friendly tuners for compliant performance boosts

Note: Emissions-related mods may not be legal for street use—verify local laws and usage classification.

Final Thoughts

The 2023+ Superduty engine lineup reflects Ford’s ongoing commitment to durability, flexibility, and best-in-class capability. Whether you’re building a personal hauler or managing a demanding work fleet, there’s a powertrain designed to deliver. More information about the Ford Gen 4 engine options can be found in our blog discussing those engines.

Best Gas Engine:
7.3L Godzilla – unmatched for brute torque, longevity, and simplicity.

Best Diesel Engine:
6.7L HO Powerstroke – delivers extreme towing power and maximum reliability in all conditions.

If you are willing to fork over the dow to drive one of those things, more power to ya. We certainly love them, we just can’t afford them. By if you want to show off your ride, we are always happy to check it out if you stop by our shop in Orlando. Hope to see you there.

Image: courtesy Wikipedia

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