2026 Ford F-150 XL vs 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman
Full side-by-side comparison — pricing, performance, fuel economy, features, and safety. Updated 2026.
Full Spec Comparison
F-150 XL starts at $37,515, $2,475 less. F-150 XL leads with 22 MPG. 1500 Tradesman makes 305 hp (+15).
| Spec | 2026 Ford F-150 XL | 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $37,515 Save $2,475 | $39,990 +$2,475 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.3L V6 | 3.6L V6 |
| Horsepower | 290 hp 15 hp less | 305 hp +15 hp |
| Torque | 265 lb-ft | 269 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-Spd AT | 8-Spd AT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 +2 | 18 2 less |
| Hwy MPG | 26 +1 | 25 1 less |
| Combined MPG | 22 +2 | 20 2 less |
| Interior & Tech | ||
| Seats | 3 | 3 |
| Cargo | 52.8 cu ft | 53.9 cu ft |
| Screen | 8.0" | 8.4" |
| Wireless CarPlay | No | No |
| Heated Seats | No | No |
| Moonroof | No | No |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,332 lbs | 4,798 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 122.4" | 144.6" |
| Length | 209.1" | 228.9" |
| Wheels | 17" Steel | 18" Steel |
| Safety | ||
| Safety Suite | Co-Pilot360 | Safety Group |
F-150 XL or 1500 Tradesman?
Both are competitive. F-150 XL has a lower entry price, F-150 XL leads on efficiency.Test drive both.
FAQ
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 XL and 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman?
Which gets better gas mileage, the F-150 XL or 1500 Tradesman?
Should I buy a 2026 Ford F-150 or Ram 1500?
Which is more reliable, the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500?
Is the Ford F-150 bigger than the Ram 1500?
What is the cost of insurance for the F-150 XL vs 1500 Tradesman?
What is the total cost of ownership for the 2026 Ford F-150 XL?
Who Should Choose the F-150 XL
The 2026 Ford F-150 XL appeals to buyers who want strong value without overspending. At $37,515, it undercuts the 1500 Tradesman by $2,475.
Fuel economy is a clear strength here — 22 combined MPG means lower running costs over the life of the vehicle. Ford ownership comes with broad dealer network and strong aftermarket support. Compare more: F-150 XL vs F-150 XLT, F-150 XL vs F-150 Lariat, F-150 XL vs F-150 King Ranch.
Who Should Choose the 1500 Tradesman
The 2026 Ram 1500 Tradesman is the better fit for buyers who value what the Ram 1500 brings to the table. With 305 hp, it also delivers stronger performance.
Ram's approach to this truck emphasizes a balance of features and value. If that aligns with your priorities, the 1500 Tradesman deserves serious consideration.
Why the Price Difference Exists
The $2,475 price gap reflects different brand strategies and equipment levels. The 1500 Tradesman carries a premium, which is driven by relatively modest equipment differences between the two.
Powertrain differences account for part of the gap — the 1500 Tradesman makes 15 more hp. Feature differences like a larger touchscreen, 15 more horsepower, larger wheels also contribute. Both are competitive within the truck market, and neither represents a poor value at their respective price points.
What Kind of Buyer Notices the Difference
Enthusiast drivers will feel the differences immediately if there's a powertrain gap. The horsepower difference here is modest enough that most commuters won't notice it. Interior differences become apparent on longer trips where seat comfort, noise levels, and tech features matter more.
For buyers who primarily drive in urban and suburban settings under 40 mph, both of these trucks will feel remarkably similar in daily use. The differences surface on road trips, in extreme weather (where heated seats and AWD matter), and during technology-heavy interactions like navigation and phone integration.
When Both Trucks Feel the Same
In a parking lot, at a stoplight, or cruising in light traffic, these two vehicles deliver very similar experiences. Both are modern, safe trucks with contemporary safety suites, decent infotainment, and comfortable cabins. Neither will leave you feeling shortchanged in everyday scenarios.
The choice between Ford and Ram often comes down to brand loyalty, dealer experience, and which vehicle simply feels right during a test drive. We recommend driving both back-to-back on the same day — the subtle differences in steering feel, seat position, and visibility are more informative than any spec sheet.