F150 XL vs XLT are two trims from Ford that have remained the most popular option in the US for over four decades. The XL is the base trim, while the XLT is slightly more advanced with different safety upgrades and luxury features.
Both trims belong to the Ford F-150 series, which are rugged trucks with a stable build that can handle the roughest roads and conditions. In this guide, we will look at the two trim levels and make it easy for you to choose the ideal option between them.
| Features | XL | XLT |
| Engine | V6 | V6 or turbo V6 |
| Interior style | Standard black vinyl floor | Sports carpeted floor mats |
| Cost | Cheaper | More expensive |
| Advanced features | Optional | Standard |
| Entertainment | Standard systems | FordPass Connect System |
What Is The Difference Between F150 XL and XLT?
The main difference between F150 XL and XLT is their trim levels, as the XL is the base trim of the Ford F-150 while XLT is the second trim level in the series. The XLT has more luxury, like front bucket seats and safety upgrades.
They are both the cheapest options in the series, as they share interior and exterior features but have some differences as well. The differences between the XL and XLT trims are in performance, style, cost, appearance, infotainment and entertainment, as well as advanced features.
The XL is the ideal choice for those that are on a tight budget but who still want key features, while the XLT is great for anyone that wants more advanced features. Here are some of the differences between the two trims.
– Performance
The XLT offers more performance than the XL because of the differences in their engines. With the XL model, you only have the V6 engine available to you. But the XLT allows you to choose between that or the turbo V6 engine, and this is the main trim comparison.
Also, the XLT is fitted with 17-inch aluminum wheels, but the XL features steel wheels instead. But, while the XLT has two-wheel options while the XL comes with four-wheel selections.
– Appearance
In terms of their appearance, the XLT and XL have some differences. In the grille, the XL features a black two-bar style with black nostrils. But, the XLT is more advanced with a chrome grill, two bars, chrome nostrils, a black background mesh and a black surround on it.
Also, the XLT has a power lock tailgate, while the XL is a key lock tailgate. Additionally, the XLT’s rear and front bumpers are chrome, while the XL’s is black.
– Style
There are also some differences in their style. The XL has a black vinyl floor for standard, while the XLT has a color-coordinated sports carpeted floor. Both trims have MyKey and cruise control, but while the XLT has a Sync 4 entertainment system, you only get the AM/FM stereo on the XL.
– Advanced Features
The difference between the XLT and XL is that you get more key features than the former. The XLT features, which are advanced, are optional on the XL. On your XLT truck, you get a split-screen touchscreen, blind-spot monitoring, voice commands and more. You can use your car as a hotspot and enjoy the heated seats.
– Safety
It is important to note that the XLT offers better safety than the XL. Both of the trims come with anti-lock brakes, six airbags and tire pressure monitoring. But you only get blind-spot monitoring on the XLT. On the Ford F-150 XLT, you will get a cross-traffic alert, post-collision braking, reverse sensing system, brake assist, and other safety functions.
– Entertainment
Unlike the XL, the XLT comes with the FordPass Connect system. This allows up to ten devices to connect to the in-vehicle hotspot of your truck at a time. Also, you can add the Sync 3 system to the XL. Both have decent infotainment, but the XLT is more advanced.
– Cost
The XLT features different gadgets and technological features, which is why it costs more. Since the XL is the base trim, you can expect to spend about $6,000 less. You might also spend more on adding optional advanced features to your XL model. The MSRP for the XL is $35,730, while the XLT will go for $43,835.
– Similarities Between the Trims
There are some similarities between the F-150 XL and XLT, including the performance. In both of the models, you get a 3.3L V6 engine under the hood, 290 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. They offer impressive power in the Ford truck, and the engine has a GDI system and contains dual injectors in each cylinder.
You will also get six-speed automatic transmission, and you can choose from sport, haul/tow and normal. They also have similarities in the exterior, with an integrated cargo lamp, center high-mounted stop lamp, daytime running lights, and spare tire carrier on the rear underframe. You will also see tailgate handles and halogen headlights.
Both features come with a comfortable interior design, although you get more features in the XLT. They both have fade-to-off lighting, a black foam steering wheel, a productivity screen, and an internet hotspot. There are also sophisticated climate control systems with air conditioning.
The Ford F-150 XL and XLT come with different safety tools. Both of them come with a rearview camera, Ford Co-Pilot 60 technology, emergency braking and collision protection, and other features. You also get controls for automatic headlights and high auto beams. The two models also come with an AdvanceTrac system with roll stability control.
– Features and Specs of the F150 XL
The F-150 XL is the base model of the Ford F-150 series. The XL stands for Extra Large and is the basic trim level in the series. There are not any extra features on the truck except you pay for the upgrades. It is the least expensive option and a great work vehicle. If you are on a budget, the truck is an ideal choice for you. It is powerful and affordable.
On the F-150 XL, you get a 3.3L V-6 engine that gives off 290 hp and 265 pound-feet of torque. It also comes with auto emergency braking, automated headlamps, cruise control, high beams, auto start/stop and a rearview camera. You can also benefit from superior interior design features like the stereo with over 150 preloaded channels and aftermarket systems.
One of the advantages of the F-150 XL is the high trailer towing capacity which makes it a great camping truck. It also comes with a powerful engine, 10-speed auto transmission and smooth steering that can benefit from when you are driving. On the downside, the car has low mileage, and despite being compatible with rough roads, it does not ride well in the snow.
– Features and Specs of the F150 XLT
Ford F-150 XLT is the second trim level in the series, and the name means Extra Luxurious Truck. It is the next trim level after the base model, and it dates back to 1970 with the Ford Ranger truck. It is also related to the Ford Explorer and Bronco and is a full package of advanced features.
The XLT comes with all the standard features that you will find in the XL, but you will notice some convenient extras that improve the style, luxury and performance. The car is also highly efficient in terms of fuel and comes with numerous safety features that are a bit advanced. It offers more comfort along with performance.
Aside from XLT, the other trims in the F-150 series include Rattler, Heritage Edition, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum and Limited. It comes with a 3.3L V-6 engine on the standard while the optional engine is 3.0L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V6.
Some of the advantages of the XLT include impressive power, straightforward infotainment features, which are highly advanced, high-class towing and payload features, and a spacious cabin which is well-furnished. But on the downside, it is more expensive than the XL, so it is not ideal for those on a budget. The powertrain is a bit more refined.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Which is Bigger Between XL and XLT?
The XLT is bigger than the XL trim, in general they are similar. The XLT features an extra-large size that is made for tall people, and they have two different price points. The XL is a budget-friendly option, while the XLT has extra features that contribute to the higher price.
– Is There Cruise Control on the F-150 XL?
No, there is no cruise control on the F-150 XL. If you want the cruise control feature, you need to buy the Ford F-150 XLT and the higher trims from here. The XLT comes with cruise control, power door locks, delayed accessory power, and a reverse sensing system.
– What are the Differences Between XL, XLT and Lariat?
The main difference between XL, XLT and Lariat is their interior design. The Lariat features a rear window with a privacy tint, power sliding glass, and a defroster, while the XLT has fixed glass with a privacy tint. As for the XL, it uses a fixed glass with solar tint.
Also, the Lariat comes with leather seats. However, the XL and XLT come with cloth seats.
– Does the XLT Have a Better Fuel Economy Than XL?
No, the XLT and XL have the same fuel economy since they both have the same standard engines. Both of the cars come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine, which includes 20 mpg and 24 mpg for the city and highway ratings.
But, you can get a slightly better fuel economy with the optional engine on the XLT. It comes with specs of 17 mpg and 24 mpg on city streets and on the highway.
– Is There a 4-Wheel Drive on XLT?
Yes, XLT comes with a 4-wheel drive. The car makes use of a four-wheel-drive system with three configurations. You can also choose the rear-wheel drive if you want a different powertrain. The four-wheel drive will power all the wheels of your car simultaneously.
Conclusion
If you are buying a new powerful truck from Ford, you might be choosing between F150 XL vs XLT. The main difference between the XL and XLT is their trim level, price and luxury features, as the former is cheaper and is the base model.The F-150 XL comes with high towing capacity, 10-speed automatic transmission, and smooth steering, but it has low mileage.
The F-150 XLT has a powerful engine, a quality infotainment system, high-class payload features, and a well-furnished cabin, but it is a bit expensive. The Ford F-150 is one of the best trucks for its on-road and off-road performance and durability. You can easily make your choice between the two based on their price and their performance or take them on a test drive.
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