The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. The 2025 version is the latest model with many choices for how it looks and what engine it has.
Trim levels are like different versions of the same car that come with more or fewer features. You can pick the one that has what you want and what you can afford.
A column shifter is the stick you use to change gears that is attached near the steering wheel, instead of between the seats. This gives you more room in the middle of the truck.
This is the part that changes gears automatically so the truck can drive smoothly and use fuel better. Having 10 speeds means it can pick the best gear for the situation.
The Ford F-150 STX is a type of pickup truck that is good for work and everyday use. It has enough features to be comfortable but isn’t very fancy or expensive.
Perpendicular parking means parking your car straight into a spot that is at a right angle to the road or driving lane. This way, cars park side by side facing the lane where cars drive.
Angled parking means the cars park at a slant instead of straight across. It makes it easier to get in and out of the spot but takes up more space than parking along the curb.
ADA compliant spots are special parking spaces for people with disabilities. They are bigger and easier to get in and out of, usually close to building entrances.
Semi-trucks are big trucks used to carry goods. They have two parts: the front part that drives and the back part that carries stuff. They need special places to park because they're so big.
The discussion kicks off with a detailed review of the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew, highlighting its multiple trim levels, engine options, and practical features like a 12-inch center screen and a powerful 5.0-liter V8. The hosts compare pricing and capabilities with competitors like Ram and Chevy. The conversation then shifts to ideal family spring break road trips across the U.S., including scenic drives like the Grand Canyon loop, Pacific Coast Highway, Great Smoky Mountains, Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks, and classic Route 66. Finally, the episode explores parking lot design, covering various parking angles, space dimensions, and their impact on maneuverability and capacity.
Want a truck that works hard without the luxury price tag? We take the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 4x4 on real roads to see how its 5.0-liter V8, 10-speed automatic, and direct steering stack up against the high-trim hype. With 12,700 lbs of towing, 1,685 lbs of payload, and a standard 12-inch center screen, this “lower” trim still brings serious muscle and everyday comfort. We break down the maze of trims, cabs, beds, and engines, then map the pricing landscape against Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevy Silverado to pinpoint where the value truly lives.
From there, we trade spec sheets for scenery with five family-ready spring break road trips. Base out of Flagstaff for a Grand Canyon loop with Sedona red rocks and Route 66 neon, or chase ocean air on California’s Pacific Coast Highway with Monterey and Santa Cruz stops. Prefer forests and wildlife? The Great Smoky Mountains deliver waterfall pullouts, easy hikes, and a Cades Cove loop with deer and black bear sightings. Desert dreamers get a cooler-season window into Utah’s Mighty Five—Zion, Bryce, and Arches—where short hikes lead to vast views. And if nostalgia calls, string together Route 66 segments for vintage motels, classic diners, and Americana in motion.
We also pull back the curtain on parking lot design. Why do angled spaces feel easier? When does perpendicular packing backfire? We explain 30, 45, and 60-degree tradeoffs, one-way flow, door clearance, and ADA considerations so you can pick smarter spots and keep your doors ding-free.
Finally, we put the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus under the microscope. With 227 hp, 310 lb-ft, upscale materials, and a compact footprint, it’s a lively daily driver—though a small trunk opening and fussy infotainment hold it back. We compare it with Civic, Corolla, and Elantra to help you choose the right compact for your roads.
If this helped you sort your next truck or plan a better road trip, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a quick review—what would you drive first, the F-150 STX or the Mazda 3?
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are. ----- ----- Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
