2026 Ford F-150 XL vs 2026 Ford F-150 XLT
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
F-150 XL starts at $37,515, $6,655 less. Same 22 MPG. F-150 XLT makes 325 hp (+35).
| Spec | 2026 Ford F-150 XL | 2026 Ford F-150 XLT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,515 Save $6,655 | $44,170 +$6,655 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.3L V6 | 2.7L Turbo V6 |
| Horsepower | 290 hp 35 hp less | 325 hp +35 hp |
| Torque | 265 lb-ft | 400 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-Spd AT | 10-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 20 |
| Hwy MPG | 26 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 22 | 22 |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 3 2 less | 5 +2 |
| Cargo | 52.8 cu ft | 52.8 cu ft |
| Screen | 8.0" | 12.0" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Heated Seats | No | Avail. |
| Moonroof | No | Avail. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,332 lbs | 4,420 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 122.4" | 145.4" |
| Length | 209.1" | 231.7" |
| Wheels | 17" Steel | 18" Alloy |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Co-Pilot360 | Co-Pilot360 |
Which Trim Is Best?
The F-150 XL delivers value; the F-150 XLT adds features worth $6,655.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 XL and 2026 Ford F-150 XLT?
Which gets better gas mileage, the F-150 XL or F-150 XLT?
Is the 2026 Ford F-150 XL worth it, or should I upgrade to XLT?
What features does the XLT have that the XL doesn't?
Do the XL and XLT have the same engine?
Which 2026 Ford F-150 trim has the best resale value?
Is the 2026 Ford F-150 a good car?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Ford F-150 XL?
Who Should Choose the XL
The 2026 Ford F-150 XL is the right pick for buyers who prioritize value and don't need every available feature. At $37,515, it delivers the core F-150 experience — the same platform, the same 3.3L V6 engine with identical fuel economy, and the same safety suite — without the cost of extras that many drivers rarely use.
If your driving is primarily commuting and errands, and you'd rather put the $6,655 price difference toward other expenses, the XL makes a strong case. Budget-conscious buyers and those buying for reliability rather than luxury will feel well-served here.
Who Should Choose the XLT
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT targets buyers willing to spend $6,655 more for a more complete package. That premium buys a larger touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, 35 more horsepower — features you'll interact with regularly, not just once at the dealership.
If cold mornings, long drives, or frequent passengers are part of your routine, the comfort upgrades in the XLT pay dividends over years of ownership. If resale value matters, higher trims also tend to hold their value better as a percentage of MSRP. See how other F-150 trims compare: F-150 XL vs F-150 Lariat, F-150 XL vs F-150 King Ranch, F-150 XL vs F-150 Platinum.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $6,655 gap between the XL and XLT comes down to a combination of technology and comfort upgrades. Specifically, the XLT adds a larger touchscreen, wireless CarPlay, 35 more horsepower.
There is also a performance difference: the F-150 XLT produces 325 hp versus 290 hp, which translates to noticeable acceleration differences.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Tech-focused drivers will immediately notice the screen and connectivity differences between trims. If you rely on wireless CarPlay or Android Auto daily, that alone may justify upgrading. During winter months, the heated seats in the F-150 XLT become a daily comfort — something you'll appreciate every morning.
Casual drivers who use their truck primarily for commuting may find the trims feel very similar once underway. The differences are most apparent when you first get in, adjust settings, and interact with the cabin.
When Both Trims Feel the Same
On the highway at 65 mph, these two trims deliver an identical experience. Same engine note, same ride quality, same fuel consumption, same safety features active in the background. The F-150's fundamental driving character doesn't change between the XL and XLT.
Both trims also share the same warranty coverage, the same crash-test ratings, and access to the same dealer service network. If your priority is getting from A to B in a reliable, efficient truck, either trim accomplishes that equally well. The choice ultimately comes down to how much the in-cabin experience matters to your daily satisfaction with the vehicle.