Whats the difference between Ranger XLT and Lariat?
In the Ford Ranger lineup, the Lariat is the premium trim with leather and richer tech, while the XLT sits in the mid-range with strong value and upgrade options. Exact features can vary by model year and market, so always check the current build sheet for your specific vehicle.
What sets Ranger XLT apart from Lariat
The following points highlight the typical distinctions you’ll find between the XLT and Lariat trims. Note that availability can vary by year and market, and some features may be bundled in optional packages.
- Interior materials and seating: Lariat usually offers leather or leather-trim seats with a more upmarket interior; XLT generally uses cloth or leatherette seating with fewer premium touches.
- Comfort and convenience: Lariat commonly includes features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and often a power-adjustable front passenger seat; XLT may offer these features as options or not at all, depending on year and package.
- Infotainment and tech: Lariat tends to come with more advanced features and equipment, such as a larger touchscreen, premium audio options, and sometimes onboard navigation or upgraded driver-assistance bundles; XLT provides strong tech as well but often with a more modest display and standard equipment package.
- Exterior styling and wheels: Lariat typically includes more premium exterior details (such as chrome accents and larger or more upscale wheels) versus the more utilitarian look of the XLT.
- Cab and configuration: Lariat is commonly offered primarily in the SuperCrew (crew cab) configuration; XLT is available in both SuperCrew and SuperCab depending on the model year, though exact availability varies by year.
- Pricing and value: As the higher trim, Lariat carries a higher starting price but aims to deliver more standard features; XLT aims to balance price with a broader set of upgrade options.
In summary, the Lariat is the more luxurious, feature-rich choice, while the XLT focuses on strong value with the option to upgrade via packages. Always verify year-specific equipment, as Ford changed features and bundles over time.
Powertrain, capability, and available packages
Both trims share the Ranger’s core powertrains and most off-road or capability options, though some packages are limited to certain configurations or years. Here’s how they typically compare in terms of performance and upgrade opportunities.
- Engines and transmissions: Ford has offered two main engines for recent Ranger models—a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder and a 2.7L EcoBoost V6—paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Both XLT and Lariat can be equipped with these engines, depending on year and market.
- Drivetrain options: Both trims are available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and 4x4 configurations are common for off-road-oriented builds. Availability can vary by year and cab configuration.
- Off-road packages: The FX4 Off-Road Package has been available on both XLT and Lariat, adding features such as upgraded shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. The Tremor Off-Road Package, introduced in certain years, is a more rugged, factory-tuned option available on select SuperCrew models and typically pairs with 4x4 and the off-road hardware suite.
- Driver-assistance and tech packages: Both trims can be equipped with driver-assistance bundles (e.g., Co-Pilot 360 Assist) and premium audio or navigation packages; exact contents depend on the year and packages chosen.
Remember that engine options, available packages, and standard vs. optional equipment evolve with each model year. Always consult the specific year’s build sheet or the dealer listing to confirm what’s included on XLT and Lariat for your preferred configuration.
Which Ranger trim is right for you
Choosing between XLT and Lariat comes down to budget, desired luxury, and how you plan to use the truck. Consider the following guidance as a general rule of thumb, while keeping year-to-year variation in mind.
- If you want premium comfort and more standard luxury features: go with Lariat. Expect leather seating, upgraded interior details, heated seats/steering wheel, and a more feature-rich infotainment setup.
- If you want strong value with the option to upgrade through packages: start with XLT. It provides solid tech and capability, with access to optional packages (including off-road and premium audio) to tailor the truck to your needs.
- If off-road capability is a priority: both trims can be built with off-road packages (FX4 or Tremor); however, Tremor is the more specialized option for aggressive off-roading and may be limited to certain years and cab configurations.
- If you have a tighter budget or prefer more practical trimming: XLT often represents the better initial value, particularly when paired with the right options from the dealer.
Ultimately, your choice should reflect how much you value interior luxury, tech, and branding versus upfront cost and upgrade potential. Always compare the exact feature lists for the model year you’re considering.
Summary
The Ranger Lariat is the higher-end trim, delivering leather seating, premium interior materials, and more standard tech, while the XLT sits in the middle with strong value and flexible upgrade options. Both trims share the same core engines and many capability features, with off-road packages like FX4 and Tremor available to boost performance. When shopping, check the specific year’s configuration to confirm exactly which features come standard or optional for XLT and Lariat in your market.
