Ford's F-250 Super Duty is a powerhouse work truck that has added towing power and capability in a lighter-weight package for the 2017 model year in the first heavy refresh in 18 years.

In some ways, Ford followed a similar approach with its Super Duty revamp that it did with the F-150 in 2015 by incorporating extensive military-grade aluminum body panels to lighten the load. The similarity doesn't end there, as these trucks begin using F-150 cabs for the Regular Cab, SuperCab, and Crew Cab models. The trucks arrive in five trim levels from XL to Platinum.

For its heavier trucks, Ford also significantly reinforced the frame to increase payload and towing capabilities. And horsepower has been boosted with the turbo diesel 6.7L V-8 Power Stroke (to 440 hp) and gasoline 6.2L V-8 (385 hp).

The F-250 is a staple in a range of commercial and government fleets for landscaping, construction, road work, and other tough jobs.

We tested the F-250 Platinum 4x4 Crew Cab with the 6.7L diesel mated to a 6-speed in-house transmission and 160-inch wheelbase. This configuration gives you the 34-gallon fuel tank. Want the 48-gallon tank, and you need to step up to the 176-inch wheelbase pickup.

This truck can tow a trailer that weighs up to 15,000 pounds with a conventional set up or 14,700 pounds with a gooseneck configuration.

Driving the truck on Southern California roads and freeways isn't a cumbersome experience, but rather a refined experience. Trucks this beefy usually suffer from excessive body roll, but the F-250 stays planted while making turning and cornering maneuvers.

The F-250 Platinum's interior offers an array of useful features including leather-wrapped steering wheel, particulate air filter, and adjustable pedals not available on lower trim grades. Power-folding side-view mirrors include power and heated glass with an integrated turn signal.

The SYNC 3 infotainment system is served to an 8-inch touch screen that offers infotainment, Bluetooth pairing, and voice-activated navigation.