RUMOR: Ford Working On F-150 With Lowered Suspension And "Sinister" Styling

Ford is expected to unveil a facelifted F-150 pickup truck at the Detroit Motor Show this September, and aside from styling updates, a new report from Ford Authority claims the Blue Oval is preparing to introduce a road-biased model called the Lobo.

According to sources familiar with the matter, this trim level will boast a lowered ride height and a "sinister and aggressive" exterior. Until Ford confirms the existence of this rumored trim level, we have to treat this as speculation. However, it wouldn't be the first time the Dearborn-based automaker has gone this route.

In the early '90s, Ford introduced the F-150 SVT Lightning with improved handling and a hearty V8. The second-generation SVT Lightning (produced between 1999-2004) is fondly remembered. Powered by a supercharged 5.4-liter V8, the sports truck could accelerate to 60 mph in a blistering 5.2 seconds.

Shelby's F-150 Super Snake is the closest thing we have to a modern-day SVT Lightning right now, but a more approachable model could be quite special too.

If the rumored Lobo were to follow in the SVT Lightning's footsteps, it could be powered by the familiar 5.0-liter V8 that offers 400 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Of course, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 produces more torque (an extra 90 lb-ft), but the grumbly V8 would suit the character of a sports truck so much better. It would also be slightly cheaper to use the V8, but perhaps Ford will offer customers the choice of both. Or perhaps something altogether different will be offered.

On certain trim levels, the F-150 is equipped with rear-wheel drive as standard. We assume the Lobo would be offered with the option of all-wheel drive, but as a street truck, it would make sense to retain the standard RWD configuration. Not only will it make the truck lighter, but it's cheaper too.

As for the name, Ford has used 'Lobo' in the Mexican market for years. Spanish for 'Wolf,' the nameplate has been used for more than three decades on the F-150. It's a rather fitting name to use on a sporting truck, especially since 'Lightning' has been adopted by the electric F-150.

While Ford has not confirmed any of this, it's worth noting that the automaker recently filed to trademark the 'F-150 Lobo' name with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), suggesting that there may be some credibility to these claims.

Many may not see the point of a road-biased performance truck, but there was a time when they were rather popular. Who knows? Perhaps this will inspire Ram to introduce a hunkered-down 1500 TRX styled after the incredible Ram SRT-10.