Ford F-150 comes with Mustang-inspired 'sport mode'

What do the Ford Mustang and F-150 have in common?

Apparently a new 'sport mode' that ensures the truck stays in the so-called "sweet spot" of the powerband and holds lower gears longer.

Activated by pushing the tow/haul mode button twice, sport mode is engaged when an 's' appears next to the tachometer, and changes the frequency of gearshifts and holds specific gears longer to make driving more responsive and spirited.

The feature also comes standard on Mustangs equipped with automatic transmissions, which were developed simultaneously.

Ford says the F-150's sport mode reduces the frequency of having to step on the gas pedal to reach peak torque, resulting in quicker acceleration with less pedal travel.

When combined with the changes within the transmission, Ford claims, the sport mode gives the F-150 "an on-demand performance feel similar to what an aftermarket modification might add ... but with the benefit of maintaining the (factory) warranty."

Sport mode is standard on every new F-150.