Ford F-150 Lariat vs. XLT: Which Trim Is Right For You?
When it comes to choosing a Ford F-150 the Lariat and XLT trims are among the top contenders that offer a balance between style, performance, and value. But if you are stuck choosing between these two iconic trims you're not alone. Each of them has its own unique features and characteristics that appeal to different types of drivers. In this comprehensive review we’ll break down the main differences between the Ford F-150 Lariat and XLT to help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and needs.
Understanding the Ford F-150 Legacy
The Ford F-150 is not just a truck. It's an American classic that's been delivering on power utility and performance for decades. Within the F-150 lineup the XLT and Lariat are two of the most popular trims and they each bring something different to the table. While the XLT aims to strike a good balance between affordability and capability the Lariat takes a step towards luxury without compromising the truck's ruggedness.
Breaking Down the Differences Between the F-150 Lariat and XLT
The Lariat and XLT trims share many similarities—they're both F-150s after all—but they have some major distinctions when it comes to features performance and price. Let’s dive into what makes each one unique.
Price Comparison
Price is always an essential factor when buying a truck. The Ford F-150 XLT is generally the more budget-friendly option of the two trims.
- 2024 Ford F-150 XLT: Starts around $43,000.
- 2024 Ford F-150 Lariat: Starts around $55,000.
This roughly $12,000 difference is significant and it largely boils down to the added features and upgrades you get with the Lariat. So if budget is a top priority the XLT might be the one for you but if you’re looking for a bit more luxury and comfort the Lariat could be worth the extra cash.
Performance & Powertrain
Engines are a big deal when it comes to trucks and both the XLT and Lariat have a range of powertrain options to suit different needs. The base engine for the XLT is a 3.3L V6 while the Lariat comes with the more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 as its standard engine. Let’s compare a few more powertrain options available to each trim:
Engine Options for the XLT
- 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 (Standard): 290 hp 265 lb-ft torque
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: 325 hp 400 lb-ft torque
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: 400 hp 500 lb-ft torque
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8: 400 hp 410 lb-ft torque
Engine Options for the Lariat
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (Standard): 325 hp 400 lb-ft torque
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: 400 hp 500 lb-ft torque
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8: 400 hp 410 lb-ft torque
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6: 430 hp 570 lb-ft torque
So while the XLT offers a broad range of engines that still deliver strong performance the Lariat steps up the game by making the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 standard and offering the PowerBoost Hybrid option.
Alex Collantes, a truck enthusiast and experienced driver says, "The Lariat has that sweet spot in terms of performance without going overboard. The PowerBoost Hybrid option is an awesome mix of power and efficiency something you won’t get as easily in the XLT."
Interior & Comfort
The interiors of both the XLT and Lariat are designed to deliver comfort but they have some stark differences.
Interior of the Ford F-150 XLT
- Cloth Upholstery (standard)
- 8-inch touchscreen display for infotainment
- Manual single-zone air conditioning
- Manual seats
The XLT provides a basic yet functional interior with a good set of comfort features. It's not flashy but it gets the job done and will appeal to those who don't need all the bells and whistles.
Interior of the Ford F-150 Lariat
- Leather-trimmed seats (standard)
- 12-inch touchscreen display with enhanced infotainment
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation
- Ambient lighting
The Lariat comes equipped with far more premium features making it a more luxurious choice. The leather seats and enhanced technology package make it feel like a modern vehicle while still maintaining that rugged truck essence.
Interior Comfort Drawbacks
While the XLT's more utilitarian interior could be seen as a benefit for some buyers it might be seen as lacking in comfort for those who want a bit more style. On the other hand the Lariat's premium interior can come off as a bit much for those who are looking for a simpler truck experience.
Technology & Infotainment
Ford F-150 XLT Tech Highlights
- 8-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen: A reliable system that covers the basics including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Standard rearview camera and Ford Co-Pilot360: Basic driver-assistance features for safety.
Ford F-150 Lariat Tech Highlights
- 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen: A larger and clearer display making navigation and entertainment a breeze.
- Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0: Enhanced driver assistance with adaptive cruise control and more safety features.
- Bang & Olufsen sound system: An available upgrade for those who want superior sound quality.
The Lariat brings more advanced tech and infotainment options that cater to those who want their truck to feel like a connected experience. While the XLT is sufficient for most the Lariat just feels a bit more futuristic.
Exterior Differences
Both the XLT and Lariat share the rugged handsome look of the F-150 but there are some styling cues and options that set them apart.
Ford F-150 XLT Exterior
- 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels (standard)
- Halogen headlamps
- Black grille with chrome accents
The XLT's exterior is designed to be simple but rugged making it ideal for those who don’t need flashy design elements.
Ford F-150 Lariat Exterior
- 18-inch machined aluminum wheels (standard)
- LED headlamps and fog lights for better visibility
- Chrome two-bar style grille with chrome surround and black accents
The Lariat's exterior offers a more upscale look with larger wheels and better lighting making it stand out a bit more on the road.
Towing and Payload Capacities
When it comes to hauling and towing both the XLT and Lariat trims offer robust capacities. However the engine choice you make will play a significant role in what these numbers look like.
- XLT Towing Capacity: Ranges from around 5,000 to 14,000 lbs depending on the engine and configuration.
- Lariat Towing Capacity: Offers similar capabilities but with a slight edge due to the more powerful engine options. It also benefits from the PowerBoost Hybrid V6 which enhances towing efficiency.
So if you’re planning to tow heavy loads frequently either trim will work but if you want a bit more power and smoothness the Lariat's engine lineup might be more appealing.
Fuel Economy
Both trims offer similar fuel economy based on the engine selected. For example the 3.3L V6 on the XLT will get you around 20 MPG city and 24 MPG highway while the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 on the Lariat offers slightly better numbers.
The real differentiator here is the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 available on the Lariat which provides the best fuel economy at around 25 MPG city and 26 MPG highway making it the ideal choice for those looking for both power and efficiency.
Safety Features
Both the XLT and Lariat come standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 which includes:
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping system
- Rear view camera
However the Lariat offers a more comprehensive safety suite with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 which includes adaptive cruise control and lane centering for a more advanced driving experience.
The Verdict: XLT vs. Lariat—Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between the XLT and Lariat trims largely depends on your priorities. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Go For the XLT If:
- You’re on a tighter budget and want to save some cash.
- You don't need all the luxury features and prefer a more basic yet reliable truck.
- You value simplicity and are looking for a balance between performance and price.
Go For the Lariat If:
- You want a more upscale interior with added comfort features like leather seats and enhanced tech.
- Performance matters to you and you want access to more powerful engine options especially the PowerBoost Hybrid.
- You're looking for a truck that feels modern and connected with a larger touchscreen and advanced driver assistance.
Alex Collantes sums it up well: "If you’re going to spend long hours in your truck go for the Lariat. It just makes the drive more enjoyable. But if you're just using it for work or don’t need all that tech and leather the XLT is a fantastic choice."
Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
While both trims are solid choices there are a few downsides to consider:
Ford F-150 XLT Drawbacks
- Limited luxury features: The cloth seats and basic interior might not cut it for those looking for more comfort.
- Tech is functional but not fancy: If you want the latest infotainment features you might find the XLT lacking.
Ford F-150 Lariat Drawbacks
- Higher price tag: The premium features come at a cost which may not fit everyone's budget.
- More complex technology: The advanced tech may feel overwhelming or unnecessary for those who just want a basic work truck.
Final Thoughts
Both the Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat trims have a lot to offer depending on what you're looking for in a truck. The XLT is a great choice for those who want capability without the extra frills while the Lariat delivers on luxury power and tech for those who want a little something extra.
At the end of the day it all comes down to how you plan to use your truck and what features matter most to you. Test-driving both models is always a good idea so you can feel firsthand which trim suits your needs and driving style best.
References
- Ford.com. “Ford F-150 Official Site.”
- U.S. News & World Report. “Ford F-150 Review.”
- Motor Trend. “Ford F-150 Comparison.”
By keeping the above insights in mind you'll be better equipped to make an informed decision on whether the XLT or Lariat is right for your next adventure or workday. Happy driving!