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What is the difference between the 2021 Ranger XLT and Lariat?

The Lariat is the higher-end version with more leather, premium tech, and comfort features, while the XLT offers strong capability with a focus on value. The core mechanicals are shared between the two, but the Lariat adds luxury touches and extras that raise the price.

In practice, Ford positioned the Ranger XLT as a well-equipped middle trim and the Lariat as the top-tier option below the range-topping Wildtrak. Both trims use the same engine and drivetrain and share towing and payload capabilities, but the Lariat typically comes with more standard equipment and premium materials. The following sections lay out the main differences in features, pricing, and overall value.

Key differences in features and equipment

Below is a side-by-side look at how interior, technology, exterior styling, and convenience features differ between the XLT and Lariat. Note that feature availability can vary by market and optional packages.

Interior materials and seating: XLT generally uses cloth upholstery with a more basic seating setup; Lariat adds leather-trimmed seats and typically enhanced seating surfaces.

Seating and comfort features: Lariat often includes heated front seats and a more adjustable driver’s seat, while XLT may offer heated seats or other comfort items only as part of options or packages.

Technology and infotainment: Both trims include Ford’s SYNC infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; the Lariat commonly adds a premium audio system (such as Bang & Olufsen) and may include built-in navigation, whereas the XLT relies on standard audio with optional navigation or package upgrades.

Exterior styling and wheels: Lariat typically features more chrome accents and upgraded wheels (often 18-inch alloys), with a more premium exterior presentation; XLT presents a solid look with base-to-mid-range wheel options and fewer premium accents.

Convenience and safety features: Lariat usually includes more standard features such as dual-zone climate control and additional driver-assist tech, while the XLT offers many of the same features via packages or lower-grade standard equipment.

Mechanical sameness: Under the hood, both trims share the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering similar towing and payload ratings when similarly equipped.

In short, the Lariat elevates the Ranger with higher-grade materials, more advanced tech, and extra comfort features, while the XLT remains a value-focused, well-equipped option with strong core capability.

Pricing and value differences

Price is a key dividing line between the XLT and Lariat, reflecting the jump in features and interior refinement. The Lariat commands a higher sticker price than the XLT, with the exact delta depending on drivetrain (two-wheel drive vs. four-wheel drive), cab configuration, bed length, and added options.

Price gap: The Lariat is typically several thousand dollars more expensive than the XLT when similarly equipped, reflecting the premium interior and tech packages.

Equipment value: If leather seating, premium audio, and enhanced comfort are priorities, the Lariat can offer better perceived value despite the higher price tag.

Configuration impact: Drivetrain choice (2WD vs. 4WD), crew cab versus extended cab, and bed length can affect the final price within each trim.

Resale and market perception: Higher-trim models like the Lariat often hold value well due to their desirable features, though market demand varies by region and model year.

Ultimately, the decision hinges on how much you value interior luxury and tech versus sticker price. For buyers who want premium touches and advanced features, the Lariat is typically worth the premium. For those prioritizing a strong feature set at a lower cost, the XLT remains an excellent choice.

Summary

The 2021 Ranger XLT and Lariat share the same powertrain and overall capability, but the Lariat adds leather upholstery, upgraded interior and tech features, and more comprehensive comfort options, justifying a higher price. The XLT provides a solid, value-oriented package with ample features and strong performance. Buyers should weigh the cost against the benefits of premium materials and technology when choosing between these two trims.

Is 2021 a good year for a Ford Ranger?

The 2021 Ford Ranger is generally well-regarded for its powerful turbocharged engine, strong towing and payload capacities, and available modern safety features. However, reviews frequently mention a firm or bouncy on-road ride, a dated and cramped interior, and some quality or reliability issues, such as problems with the fuel gauge and infotainment system. The Tremor Off-Road package was new for this model year.

Pros

Engine and performance: The 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers strong acceleration and torque, making it capable for both daily driving and heavy-duty tasks.
Towing and payload: With a 7,500-pound maximum towing capacity and a 1,860-pound payload capacity, the Ranger leads the segment in these areas.
Off-road capability: It is a very capable off-road vehicle, especially with the FX4 or Tremor packages.
Safety features: The available Ford Co-Pilot360™ includes modern driver-assist systems like blind-spot detection and lane-keeping assist.
Fuel economy: Some reviewers found the fuel economy to be better than expected for a truck.

Cons

Ride quality: The on-road ride can be jarring and bouncy, particularly with the FX4 package, and is a frequent point of criticism.
Interior: The interior is often described as dated and cramped compared to competitors.
Infotainment system: Some owners report issues with the infotainment system freezing or cutting out, according to Reddit users.
Reliability: While overall reliability ratings are high, some owners report specific issues, such as problems with the fuel gauge, notes cars.com.
Fuel economy: Some reviews note that fuel economy may not be as high as the EPA ratings suggest.

You can watch this video to learn more about the 2021 Ford Ranger's performance and capabilities: 52sHeritage FordYouTube · Nov 21, 2024

What is the difference between the Ford Ranger XLT and Lariat?

The Ford Ranger Lariat is the more premium trim compared to the XLT, offering luxury and advanced tech, while the XLT is considered the best value with a good balance of features and price. Key differences include the Lariat's standard leather-trimmed seats, push-button start, dual-zone climate control, and premium LED headlights, which are often optional or unavailable on the XLT.
This video highlights the exterior and interior differences between the Ford Ranger XLT and Lariat: 57sVehicle VerdictYouTube · Mar 23, 2025
Ford Ranger XLT vs. Lariat

Feature	XLT	Lariat
Interior	Cloth seats (optional power seats), basic climate control, and a standard interior design	Leather-trimmed seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more soft-touch materials
Technology	Available power seats, optional security passcode, and phone charging	Standard push-button start, Intelligent Access, and the SYNC 4A infotainment system
Exterior	Running and fog lights, gloss black finish, and standard wheels	Projector-style LED headlights, optional sport package with 17-inch wheels, painted door handles, and a chrome bar grille
Engine	2.7L V6 engine is unavailable	Exclusive access to the more powerful 2.7L V6 engine
Value	Best overall value for most drivers	Best for those who want added luxury and premium features

Which Ford Ranger to stay away from?

You should be wary of Ford Rangers from the 1999, 2001, 2004, 2006, and 2019 model years, which have been associated with numerous issues including transmission problems, engine failures, and airbag concerns. Other model years to be cautious of are the 2002, 2005, 2016, and the years with the introduction of the 10-speed transmission in 2015-2017, as these have also been linked to significant problems.

This video discusses reasons to be cautious when buying a Ford Ranger, including potential issues with the exhaust system and airbags: 59sSpeed SpectrumYouTube · Oct 25, 2024
Specific model years to avoid

1999, 2001: These years are frequently mentioned for having significant reliability problems, including transmission issues.
2002: This model year had multiple recalls and is known for engine and transmission problems.
2004: This model year had a high number of recalls and is associated with transmission and engine issues.
2005–2006: These years had engine and fuel system problems.
2015–2017: The first-year models of the aluminum body and the introduction of the 10-speed transmission are linked to issues.
2019: This model year is noted for potential reliability concerns.

Common problems to watch for

Transmission: Rough shifting, slipping, and delays are common across several of these model years.
Engine: Some model years are known for having engine problems, including those from 2002, 2004, and 2006.
Fuel System: Issues with the fuel system were reported for the 2005 and 2006 models.
Rear Axle: The 2016 model year is known for potential sudden and unexpected rear axle failures.
Airbags: The 2001 model is linked to airbag and wiring problems.

This video explains some potential problems with Ford Ranger engines and transmissions: 55sReDrivenYouTube · Oct 10, 2025
Recommendations

Do your research: Before buying any used Ranger, check its specific model year and vehicle history report from a service like CarFax.
Consider better years: Models like 2003, 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2021 or newer are often regarded as more reliable choices.
Inspect thoroughly: When buying used, check for common issues like rust, which is a frequent problem with older models.

What does the lariat have that the XLT doesn't?

The Lariat trim includes more luxury and technology features than the XLT, such as standard leather-trimmed seating, a larger 12-inch infotainment screen with the Sync 4 system, and Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start. Other differences include a 10-way power driver's seat with memory, ambient interior lighting, and a different standard engine for some models. While the XLT offers many features with optional packages, the Lariat includes these premium options as standard.

Feature	Lariat (Standard)	XLT
Infotainment	12-inch Sync 4 display	8-inch Sync 4 display
Seating	Leather-trimmed upholstery	Fabric or cloth upholstery
Keyless Start	Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start	Not standard
Driver's Seat	10-way power-adjustable with memory function	Power driver's seat is an available option with the XLT Luxury Package
Interior Lighting	Ambient interior lighting	Not standard
Engine (Standard)	2.7L EcoBoost V6 for some models	3.3L Ti-VCT V6 for some models
Mirrors	Power-folding mirrors with heat and LED spotlight	Heated, body-color mirrors are part of the XLT Luxury Package

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.