A best-selling record stretching back three decades is nearly all the endorsement the Ford F-150 STX needs. Ford maintains the F-150's primacy by offering a wide variety of configurations and options, supported by proven, tough mechanicals.

The F-150 was redesigned top to bottom for 2009 with a fully boxed frame providing a stout foundation that has towing and payload capabilities at the top of its class. All F-150s wear handsome sheet metal that is at once modern and instantly recognizable as F-Series. In STX trim, the F-150 gets upgrades that lend it a sporty look, and the available three-valve 4.6-liter V8 delivers 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway in two-wheel-drive models, a level of economy that could only be had in the SFE model in the past.

A step up from the entry-level F-150 XL, the STX trim level starts at a reasonable $24,095 and has a long list of standard features, optional equipment and flexible configurations. Available in both regular and SuperCab, the F-150 STX can be outfitted as either a 4x2 or 4x4 with two different versions of Ford's long-serving 4.6-liter V8 providing the muscle. The standard two-valve 4.6-liter V8 is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. Stepping up to the three-valve version of the same engine brings a six-speed automatic with Tow/Haul Mode to the party. The three-valve engine also carries an upgraded transfer case with electronic shift-on-the-fly capability in 4x4 models. A 26-gallon fuel tank is standard, and can be upgraded to 36 gallons for more range. Aiding both work capabilities and economy are several rear axle ratios, ranging from a miserly 3.15:1 to a traction-maximizing limited-slip with a 3.55 or 3.73:1 ratio.

Those details are parts you can't see. The F-150 STX is outwardly better dressed than its XL counterpart is. Standard 17-inch machined aluminum wheels replace the XL's standard steel wheels, and STX decals highlight the model designation. Front and rear bumpers are body-colored, as is the grille surround and upper front fascia panel. Running boards are available as part of the STX Decor Package, along with 18-inch cast aluminum wheels. The STX Plus Package fits cruise control and foglamps, too.

Options for getting work done abound from an integrated trailer brake controller to a cargo management system. Ford's innovative Work Solutions in-dash computer is available, and can keep track of your tools with Tool Link. Ford's much-lauded SYNC system is available in the F-150 STX, as is Ford's safety-minded programmable MyKey^™ system, which restricts top speed and audio volume to promote safer driving.

Speaking of safety, the F-150 STX has a full complement of safety technology standard. AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control aids in keeping the truck on the intended line, and front- and side-curtain airbags protect occupants in collisions. Ford's SOS Post Crash Alert System flashes lights and sounds the horn in the event of airbag deployment.  

The F-150 STX is available in so many configurations, and with such a full list of options, you stand more of a chance of winning the lottery than you do of not being able to find the very pickup to fit your needs.