What is the difference between F150 regular cab XL and XLT?

The Ford F150 is one of the most popular and versatile pickup trucks on the market. When it comes to the regular cab models, the main difference between the XL and XLT trims lies in their features, equipment, and pricing. In this article, we'll explore the key distinctions between the F150 regular cab XL and XLT to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Exterior and Interior Features

The F150 regular cab XL is the base model, offering a more utilitarian and functional design. It comes with 17-inch steel wheels, black exterior trim, and manual side mirrors. The interior features cloth upholstery, a basic audio system, and manual climate controls. In contrast, the F150 regular cab XLT adds several upgrades, including 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, and power-adjustable side mirrors. The XLT's interior boasts upgraded cloth upholstery, a 4.2-inch infotainment display, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Technology and Convenience Features

The F150 regular cab XL is equipped with essential technology features, such as a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 4-speaker audio system. The XLT, however, takes it a step further with additional features like:

• An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto


• A 6-speaker audio system


• Satellite radio


• A USB charging port

These upgrades in the XLT model provide a more modern and connected driving experience.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Both the F150 regular cab XL and XLT come with a suite of standard safety features, including:

• Automatic emergency braking


• Forward collision warning


• Pedestrian detection


• Lane-keeping assist

However, the XLT model offers additional driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, providing an enhanced level of safety and convenience.

Pricing and Value

The F150 regular cab XL is the more affordable option, with a starting MSRP around $30,000. The XLT, on the other hand, has a starting MSRP around $35,000, reflecting the additional features and upgrades. Ultimately, the choice between the XL and XLT will depend on your budget and the specific features you prioritize in a pickup truck.

What is the difference between Ford F-150 XL and XLT?

The main difference is that the Ford F-150 XL is a more basic, work-oriented trim, while the XLT adds more standard comfort, convenience, and technology features. Key XLT upgrades include features like a chrome grille and bumpers, power-adjustable and heated side mirrors, carpeted flooring, and more advanced safety and driver-assistance technology such as a 360-degree camera system and Pro Trailer Backup Assist. The XL can be a more affordable starting point, while the XLT provides a greater level of standard equipment.
 
This video highlights the key differences between the F-150 XL and XLT, including exterior and interior features: 1mYour Car Guy DaveYouTube · Dec 22, 2022
Ford F-150 XL

• Focus: A straightforward, work-focused truck with a lower starting price. 
• Exterior: Black bumpers and grille, manual glass side mirrors, and manual windows/locks are standard. 
• Interior: Vinyl or cloth upholstery and vinyl flooring are typical. 
• Technology: Comes with a standard 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but many advanced features are optional or part of packages. 

Ford F-150 XLT

• Focus: A more comfortable and technologically advanced daily driver with more standard features. 
• Exterior: Chrome grille and bumpers, power and heated side mirrors, and fog lamps are standard. 
• Interior: Carpeted flooring, carpeted floor mats, and dual-zone automatic climate control are standard. 
• Technology: Includes more advanced standard technology like the 360-degree camera system, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and the Ford Co-Pilot 360 2.0 safety suite with features like blind-spot monitoring. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the F-150 XLT trim features: 58sTCcustomsYouTube · Mar 20, 2025

What does an XLT have that an XL doesn't?

The XLT offers the 3.0L Power StrokeⓇ Turbo Diesel V6 as an engine option, while the XL does not provide you with this choice. You can expect 17-in. silver steel wheels with the XL and 17-in. silver-painted aluminum wheels with the XLT.

Which F-150 to stay away from?

You should avoid 2004-2006, 2010, 2013, and 2015-2018 model years of the Ford F-150 due to common engine failures, transmission problems, and structural or electrical issues. These specific years are linked to issues such as the 5.4L Triton engine's spark plug and cam phaser problems, 6-speed transmission failures, and concerns with the aluminum body and electronic systems.
 
This video explains the worst Ford F-150 years to avoid: 57sSpeed SpectrumYouTube · Nov 19, 2025
Years to avoid

• 2004-2006: These models suffered from major issues with the 5.4L Triton V8 engine, including spark plug blowouts and cam phaser failures. 
• 2010: This year continued the problematic 5.4L engine and also had frequent issues with window leaks, rough shifting, and transmission vibrations. 
• 2013: These models experienced transmission problems, particularly with the 6-speed automatic, leading to hard shifts and gear slippage. 
• 2015-2018: These years saw widespread problems, including engine oil leaks on the 2.7L EcoBoost, issues with the electronic power steering (EPAS), and a large recall for a seat belt pretensioner defect that could cause fires. The 2018 also introduced some transmission issues with the new 10-speed gearbox. 

What to look for instead

• 2009, 2014, 2019-2020, and 2021+: These are often cited as some of the better years for the F-150, particularly with the 5.0L V8 or 2.7L EcoBoost engines. 
• 2014: A solid year for reliability, especially when equipped with the 5.0L V8 engine. 
• 2019-2020: Known for improved reliability and fixes to common issues from previous years. 

Important considerations

• Always get a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, regardless of the model year. 
• Research specific engine options within a model year, as some engines are more reliable than others. 
• If considering a 2021 model, be aware of potential issues related to major redesigns, such as electrical glitches and other build quality problems. 
• Check for open recalls on any used vehicle before purchase.

Is XLT the same as XL?

The XLT trim provides upgraded interior materials, advanced technology options, and enhanced comfort, which contribute to a higher starting price compared to the XL trim.