The Ford F150 XL is better than the Ford F150 XLT in terms of affordability. The F150 XL price starts from $33,695, while the F150 XLT starts from $41,800. The F150 XLT, however, has more features than the F150 XL. The F150 XLT has keyless entry, fog lights, aluminum wheels, and a fixed rear window with privacy glass and a defroster. The F150 XLT also has a better audio system, infotainment system, and safety features. Some features of F150 XLT are optional to F150 XL, while others are not available to F150 XL at all.
Ford F150 XL Vs XLT: Quick Comparison
Here is a quick comparison between Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT:
| Criteria | 2023 Ford F150 XL | 2023 Ford F150 XLT |
| Ford Co-Pilot 360 2.0 | Optionally available | Available. Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0 can also be added as an option. |
| Intersection Assist | Not available | Optionally available |
| Forward Sensing System | Not available | Optionally available |
| Built-In Navigation | Not available | Available with a 3-year3 year trial period. |
| Lane Keeping System | Optionally available | Available |
| BLIS | Optionally available | Available |
| 360 Degree Camera Package | Not available | Optionally available |
| Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control | Not available | Optionally available |
| Pro Trailer Backup Assist | Not available | Optionally available |
| Fuel Capacity | 23 gallons to 36 gallons | 23 gallons to 36 gallons |
| Keyless Entry | Not available | Available |
| Grille | Black two bar style with black surround and black accents. The STX package, however, uses honey insert grilles instead with body color surround. | Black two bar style with chrome surround and black accents |
| Bumper | Black front bumper and black rear bumper. But both bumpers are body color for the STX appearance package. | Chrome front bumper and chrome rear bumper. But the sport appearance package comes with both bumpers in body color. |
| Headlamps | Halogen headlamps with black bezels | Halogen headlamps with chrome bezels. LED Reflector can be added as an option. |
| Fog Lamps | Not available | Halogen fog lamps. Can be upgraded to LED fog lamps with LED cornering lights. |
| Factory Wheels | 17 inch silver steel wheels | 17 inch silver aluminum wheels |
| Remote Tailgate Release | Not available | Optionally available |
| Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start | Not available | Optionally available |
| Seat adjustment | Manual seat adjustment. 8 way power driver available | Manual seat adjustment. Both 8 and 10 way power driver available |
| Seat Cover | Cloth seat cover | Cloth seat cover. Katzkin leather seat cover is also available. |
| Gear Shifter Type | Column shifter located near the steering wheel | Column shifter for the base model. Console shifter at the center for the sport appearance package. |
| Rear Window | Fixed with solar tint. But privacy tint and defroster are optionally available. | Fixed with privacy tint and a defroster |
| Side Mirror | Manual adjustment. Power glass, turn signals and heat available as an option. | Manual folding, power glass adjustment and heating |
| Infotainment screen | 8 inch SYNC 4 capacitive touch screen | 8 inch to 12 inch SYNC 4 capacitive touch screen |
| Audio system | Default AM/FM radio which can be replaced with SiriusXM with 360L system | SiriusXM with 360L system. B & O Sound System By Bang & Olufsen can also be added as an option. |
| Enhanced Voice Recognition | Optionally available | Available |
| Heated Seats | Not available | Optionally available |
| Floor | Black Vinyl Floor. Carpeted floor optionally available. | Color Coordinated Carpet with Carpeted Floor Mats |
| Extra Storage | Not available | Partitioned Lockable, Fold-Flat Storage |
| Delayed Accessory Power | Not available | Available |
| Price | Starting at $33,695 | Starting at $41,800 |
Still confused about what are the differences between the 2023 Ford F150 XL and the 2023 Ford F150 XLT? Do not worry. I will give you a more detailed comparison of the two in the sections down below.
Ford F150 XL Vs XLT: In-Depth Comparison
Power and Handling
Compared to the interior and exterior features, the Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT vary a little when it comes to power and handling.
Engine Options
Unlike other models of Ford F150, the F150 XL and F150 XLT let you choose similar engines. With both models, you can select any one engine from a selection of five:
- 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 with 290 HP and 265 lb.-ft. of torque.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 325 HP and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 400 HP and 500 lb.-ft. of torque.
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 400 HP and 410 lb.-ft. of torque.
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 430 HP and 570 lb.-ft. of torque.
The 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 comes as the default engine for both models.
Transmission
Both the F150 XL and F150 XLT use an electronic 10-speed automatic transmission for transferring the power from the engine to your wheels. This transmission is enhanced for better acceleration at mid and low power ranges and has 3 overdrive gears.
The F150 XL and F150 XLT also come with the standard SelectShift automatic transmission with the progressive range select feature. For either model, if you get the PowerBoost, you will get the hybrid electronic 10-speed automatic transmission as well.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Both the F150 XL and F150 XLT come with the following fuel tank capacities:
- 23-Gallon (Available on Regular Cab and SuperCab)
- 26-Gallon (Available on SuperCrew)
- 30.6-Gallon (For the PowerBoost engine only)
- 36-Gallon (Available option for all cabs)
Suspension
The F150 XL and F150 XLT have similar suspensions. Here is what you can expect from either of them in terms of the suspension:
- Independent Front Suspension on the front axle
- Coil springs at the front
- Two-stage variable rate rear leaf springs
Drivetrain
The Ford F150 XL is equipped with a 4×2 drivetrain by default. The drivetrain can be upgraded to a 4×4 drivetrain for an additional $5,015. Likewise, the F150 XLT also comes with a default 4×2 drivetrain. This, too, can be upgraded to a 4X4 drivetrain for a total of $3,790. You will get front tow hooks along with the 4×4 drivetrain for both.
You can also add the electronic locking rear differential as an option to either of them. This feature gives you better traction if you are having to drive on mud.
Safety
The Ford F150 XL and the F150 XLT come packed with a lot of safety features by default. But the F150 XLT variant can be equipped with additional safety features if necessary. Here are some of the safety features that separate the two F150 models:
Intersection Assist
The F150 XL does not have any option for adding the Intersection assist feature. The F150 XLT, in comparison, lets you add the intersection assist as an option.
The intersection assist uses the radar sensors and the front camera to help you make a left turn in an intersection.
If the F150 XLT senses a possible collision it will warn you, and if necessary, apply the brakes.
So the F150 XLT will help you make safer left turns with confidence compared to the F150 XL.
Ford Co-Pilot 360 2.0
The Ford Co-Pilot 360 version 2.0 comes as a standard feature in the Ford F150 XLT models. It is also available on the Ford F150 XL models as an option.
Adding this feature to the F150 XL will cost you an additional $655. It also requires you to install power glass and rear privacy glass with the added defroster on the F150 XL.
The Ford Co-Pilot 360 is a suite of features that help you drive safer. It helps you avoid collisions with other cars when driving and also helps you stick to your lane.
Forward Sensing System
The forward sensing system is another feature you can add as an option to your Ford F150 XLT. This feature, however, is not available in the Ford F150 XL variant.
This system detects objects that are in front of you but can not be seen from the driver’s seat. This is very convenient when you are parking in front of an obstacle:
Source: Ford
Connected Built-In Navigation
The Ford F150 XLT comes with the option for a connected built-in navigation system, but the Ford F150 XL doesn’t have this option.
The navigation system of F150 XLT comes with a free 3-year trial period. Using this system you can navigate almost anywhere in the world. This system can also guide you to the nearest gas stations and coffee shops around you.
Lane-Keeping System
The lane-keeping system is another feature that comes built-in with the Ford F150 XLT model. But you can still add this feature to the F150 XL if you wish.
You will get the lane-keeping system on the F150 XL by default if you have already purchased the optional Ford Co-Pilot 360.
The lane keeping system can control your steering wheel. It also warns you if you get too close to the edge of the lane. Interestingly, if you drive to the edge of the lane too many times you will see a coffee cup icon light up. You should get a break from driving if you ever see that icon glow.
360 Degree Camera Package
The 360 Degree Camera package is an optional feature that you can install on your Ford F150 XLT. This feature is not available on the Ford F150 XL models, unfortunately.
The 360 degree camera package enables you to monitor your surrounding environment:
Source: Ford
It uses a combination of 4 different cameras around the F150 XLT to create a 360 degree picture. The cameras are located at the grille, the tailgate and under the 2 side mirrors of the F150 XLT.
An added benefit of the 360 degree camera package is that now you can easily keep track of the cargo on the bed. But this feature will cost you an extra $765 on the F150 XLT.
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
The F150 XLT can also be equipped with the intelligent adaptive cruise control system. This feature is not available to the F150 XL variants at all.
This optional feature lets you decide your cruising speed and the distance to be kept from the vehicle in the front.
If the vehicle at the front slows, your F150 XLT will slow down too when the intelligent adaptive cruise control system is ON. When the other vehicle picks up speed your truck will accelerate while maintaining the predetermined distance. This feature helps you relax more while also ensuring your safety.
Pro Trailer Backup Assist
Another feature that is available to the Ford F150 XLT and not to the F150 XL is the pro trailer backup assist.
The pro trailer backup assist is an optional feature for the F150 XLT. Adding this feature will cost you another $1,325. You can turn this feature on when needed as shown here in this picture:
Source: Ford
Simply rotate the dial next to the infotainment display to set the path you want your trailer to follow. This feature incorporates the Dynamic Hitch Assist system as well. This system is useful when you are trying to get your hitch attached to the trailer.
The pro trailer backup assist feature of the F150 XLT can be very convenient for both novice and experienced drivers. The Trailer Reverse Guidance feature, however, is optionally available to both F150 XL and F150 XLT.
BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert
The Blind Spot Information System, or BLIS, is another great feature that comes equipped with the F150 XLT from the factory. This feature can only be added to the Ford F150 XL model if you purchase the Ford Co-Pilot 360 2.0.
BLIS uses radars installed at the rear side of the vehicle as shown here:
Source: Ford
If a vehicle approaches you from the rear side an indicator light will light up on the side mirror. You will also get an audible warning sound. The cross-traffic alert system warns you when you are backing out of parking to a busy road.
If you get the trailer tow package with BLIS you will also get the BLIS with trailer tow coverage:
Source: Ford
This feature is optional on both F150 XL and F150 XLT models.
Exterior Features
There are many external features that separate the 2023 F150 XLT models from the 2023 F150 XL as shown here:
Source: Ford
This is the external view of the 2023 Ford F150 XL.
Source: Ford
This is the external view of the 2023 Ford F150 XLT.
Source: Ford
This is the rear view of the 2023 F150 XL.
Source: Ford
Likewise, this is the rear view of the 2023 F150 XLT.
And this is a comparison of the side view of the two:
Source: Ford
The top picture is the side view of the 2023 Ford F150 XL and the bottom picture is of a 2023 Ford F150 XLT.
As the pictures show, there are quite a few noticeable external factors that distinguish the two. Here are some of the key external attributes:
SecuriCode
Both Ford F150 XL and XLT came with a remote keyless entry system with their default package. The XLT also has a Keyless Entry Keypad, available on the Driver’s Side but it’s not a default package option, rather it’s available as an add-on feature.
Both Ford F150 XL and XLT have SOS Post-Crash Alert System, Perimeter Anti-Theft Alarm, and SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System available with the basic package.
Wheels
Another distinguishing feature of the two models is their factory default wheels. The Ford F150 XL comes with a set of common 17-inch silver steel wheels. The Ford F150 XLT, on the other hand, comes with 4 17-inch silver aluminum wheels by default.
Here is a comparison of the two:
Source: Ford
But you can still get the default Ford F150 XLT wheels on the F150 XL as an option. What is unique to the F150 XLT model, however, is the 20 Inch 6 Spoke Dark Alloy Painted Aluminum Wheel option:
Source: Ford
You can also get the 18-inch and 20 Inch Chrome PVD Wheel options only with the Ford F150 XLT model:
Source: Ford
The Ford F150 XL variant, in contrast, offers the 20 Inch 6 Spoke Machined Aluminum Wheels with magnetic painted pockets:
Source: Ford
This wheel option is not available for the Ford F150 XLT model.
For both models you can get the following wheels as an option as well:
- 18 Inch 6 Spoke Machined Aluminum Wheels with Gloss Black Painted Pockets
- 18 Inch Silver Painted Aluminum Wheels
Headlamps
Both the Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT have halogen headlamps by default. You can add LED Reflector to the F150 XLT as an option.
Furthermore, the 2023 F150 XL model has a black bezel around the headlamp:
Source: Ford
The headlight of the 2023 F150 XLT, in comparison, uses a chrome bezel as shown here:
Source: Ford
The black appearance package of the Ford F150 XLT, however, uses a black bezel around the head lamps.
Both of them have automatic ON/OFF headlamps and automatic high beam headlamps. What this means is that the high beam will automatically turn ON when driving in dark. They will also turn OFF momentarily when a car comes from the opposite direction on the highway.
Fog Lamps
The Ford F150 XLT comes with halogen fog lamps included. The Ford F150 XL, on the other hand, has no fog lamp incorporated by default only available as an option.
Moreover, you can change the fog lamps to LED with LED cornering lights on the Ford F150 XLT.
Remote Tailgate Release
You can add Remote Tailgate Release as an option to the Ford F150 XLT for an extra $195. This can not be done to the Ford F150 XL, however.
Additionally, with this feature, you also get the remote start capability for free.
Interior Features
There are some interior features that distinguish the two as well. These pictures show the difference in the internal appearance of the 2 models:
Source: Ford
The top image belongs to a 2023 F150 XL, while the bottom picture illustrates the interior of the 2023 F150 XLT.
Here are the side views of the interior of the two:
Source: Ford
The picture at the top shows the interior of 2023 F150 XL and the picture underneath that is that of a 2023 F150 XLT.
As the pictures show, there are only some subtle differences between the interiors of the F150 XL and F150 XLT. Here is a list of the features that separate the two:
Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start
The Ford F150 XLT has an option for Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start, unlike the Ford F150 XL.
What this means is that you do not need a key to unlock the F150 XLT. You only need to keep the key fob nearby when unlocking the doors or starting the engine.
Seat adjustment
The seats of both the Ford F150 XL and Ford F150 XLT need to be manually adjusted. But you can get power seats for either model. The F150 XL model comes with the option for an 8-way power seat. The F150 XLT, too, has a similar option, but you could get a 10-way power seat as well with this model.
This is a very useful feature if you need to share your vehicle with a lot of people from different heights.
Moreover, you can also add power adjustable pedals to the F150 XLT model for an extra $170. This optional feature lets you adjust the length of the pedals before driving for additional safety and comfort. So if the leg length of the drivers varies too much, then you should be considering this optional feature.
Gear Shifter Type
The Ford F150 XL uses a column shifter placed near the steering wheel in all appearance packages. The Ford F150 XLT, too, includes a column shifter. But if you get the sport appearance package of the F150 XLT, you will get a console shifter instead.
Side Mirror
The side mirrors of the Ford F150 XLT, by default, are manual folding, with power glass and heat. In contrast, the F150 XL only comes with manual folding side mirrors.
For an extra $305 you can upgrade the side mirrors of the F150 XL to get the same features as the F150 XLT.
Furthermore, you will also get turn signals on the side mirrors with this upgrade. Turn signals are not available on the side mirrors of the F150 XLT base model.
Infotainment screen
Both the Ford F150 XL and the Ford F150 XLT have an 8-inch capacitive touch screen infotainment display with SYNC 4 capability. But the screen of the Ford F150 XLT can be upgraded to a 12-inch screen display if needed.
This is the default 8-inch infotainment display for with model:
Source: Ford
The 12 inch optional infotainment display for the F150 XLT, however, is much bigger than this as shown here:
Source: Ford
What’s more, the 12-inch display of the F150 XLT can be split up into two windows. This lets you multitask while you drive. This is particularly convenient if you are using the in-built navigation system and need to access a different application or watch a show.
Audio
The Ford F150 XL, unlike the Ford F150 XLT, comes with built-in AM/FM radios. The F150 XLT instead comes with the SiriusXM with 360L system by default.
This feature, however, can be added to the F150 XL model by replacing the AM/FM radio.
This SiriusXM with 360L system upgrade on the F150 XL model will cost you an additional $325. This system will also give you access to the SiriusXM traffic and travel link which is available to both models.
The SiriusXM with 360L comes with an all access 3 month trial period for both F150 XL and F150 XLT. It lets you stay updated on sports, watch comedy, news, listen to music, and talk shows while on the road. You will also be getting access to more than 200 channels and thousands of hours of on-demand shows.
Moreover, what really differentiates the F150 XLT from the F150 XL in audio is the optional B&O® Sound System By Bang & Olufsen:
Source: Ford
This audio system incorporates 8 premium speakers that are carefully placed around the truck, pre-tuned and pre-calibrated for the best audio experience.
The B&O® Sound System By Bang & Olufsen is capable of 640 W of amplification.
Furthermore, it comes with an integrated microphone for monitoring background noise for added clarity.
Enhanced Voice Recognition
F150 XLT comes with enhanced voice recognition enabled from the factory. On the F150 XL, in contrast, you will get this feature only if you pay for the SiriusXM with 360L system mentioned earlier.
This feature requires an active data connection but lets you drive with fewer distractions. It lets you communicate with the infotainment system without using your hands.
Productivity screen
Both the Ford F150 XL and the F150 XLT comes with a 4-inch productivity display on the dashboard behind the steering wheel:
But unlike the Ford F150 XL, the productivity screen of the F150 XLT can be upgraded to a 8-inch screen as shown here:
Source: www.fleet.ford.com
The 8 inch productivity screen in the instrument cluster is a big improvement over its 4 inch counterpart. The bigger screen can show you more information on your vehicle. It even lets you know if you accidentally left your trailer lights ON.
For both models, you will get the same gauges and meters: fuel, oil pressure, transmission oil temperature, engine coolant temperature, speedometer, odometer, and tachometer.
Heated Seats
Heating can be added to the front seats of the Ford F150 XLT as an option. Whereas the Ford F150 XL model does not include heated seats.
The heated seats can make the F150 XLT worth considering if you live in a particularly cold region.
Delayed Accessory Power
The delayed accessory power feature comes as a standard in the Ford F150 XLT models. However, this feature is not available in the F150 XL models.
Delayed accessory power is a feature that keeps the audio and other electrical accessories running after you shut down the engine.
This feature will let you run the electrical components for 10 minutes after the engine is turned off. But opening the front door on the driver’s side after turning off the ignition will automatically cancel this feature.
Extra Storage Space
The ford F150 XLT, unlike the F150 XL, comes with partitioned fold-flat storage in the rear which is also lockable:
Source: Ford
This extra storage space lets you stow away the small things out of sight and out of mind. Besides this, both models come with a lot of storage space on the doors and dual glove boxes.
Price
The F150 XL starts at $33,695. In comparison, the Ford F150 XLT model starts from $41,800.
Both prices exclude taxes. The final price of the truck will depend on the optional features that you want to add.
Additional factors that could affect the price are the delivery fees, the dealer processing charges, the method of financing, and any emission testing charge.
So, which is better: Ford F150 XL Or F150 XLT?
The F150 XL is better than the Ford F150 XLT in terms of affordability. The F150 XLT, in contrast, is better in terms of exterior and interior features, audio and infotainment systems, and safety features.
Based on the information provided, it is clear that the Ford F150 XL and Ford F150 XLT models have different features and price points. If affordability is a top priority, then the F150 XL is the better choice as it is significantly cheaper than the F150 XLT.
However, if features such as keyless entry, infotainment systems, and safety features are essential to your needs, then the F150 XLT would be the more suitable option.
If you are in the market for a truck and are looking for a balance between affordability and features, then it might be worth considering adding certain features to the F150 XL rather than buying the F150 XLT outright. This could potentially save you some money while still providing you with the features that you require.
Ultimately, the choice between the F150 XL and F150 XLT will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the features that are important to you, and your overall comfort and convenience when making your decision.
Key Differences between Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT of Earlier Years
The previous sections discussed the differences between the 2023 Ford F150 XL and the 2023 Ford F150 XLT. In 2023 the differences between the two are mostly in terms of interior and exterior aesthetics and safety features. But in the previous years, the F150 XL and F150 XLT had many more distinguishing factors.
Here are some of the key differences between the Ford F150 XL and the Ford F150 XLT based on past years:
2017 Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT
In 2017 some of the features of the F150 XLT were made optional on the F150 XL. These features include:
- Fog lamps for better visibility and safety
- Tailgate power lock for added comfort and security
- Chrome painted front and rear bumpers
- Chrome grille at the front
- SYNC enabled infotainment system
- Optional LED lighting on the truck bed and power-adjustable pedals. These were not available for the F150 XL models.
2018 Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT
In 2018 the Ford F150 XLT differed from the F150 XL mostly in terms of aesthetics and some functional features. Here are some of the features that separated the F150 XLT from the F150 XL.
Distinguishing F150 XLT Features:
- Chrome detailing in the interior and the exterior.
- CD player with a SYNC-enabled infotainment system
- Power windows, power side mirrors, and power locks.
2019 Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT
In the year 2019 the F150 XLT was marketed as a more aesthetically stylish vehicle compared to the F150 XL. Some of the aesthetic elements that were absent in the Ford F150 XL but came as standard features in the Ford F150 XLT are:
- Wheels with aluminum rims
- Chrome front grille
- Chrome front and rear bumpers
- Color coordinated carpeted floors
2020 Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT
In 2020 Ford F150 XLT focused more on infotainment compared to the “no frills” approach of the F150 XL that year. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
- F150 XLT changed to a bigger 8-inch capacitive display touch screen for the infotainment system. The F150 XL had a 4-inch infotainment display instead.
- The F150 XL had a smaller productivity screen compared to the F150 XLT model that year.
- The F150 XLT had Android Auto and Apple CarPlay enabled, unlike the F150 XL model.
2021 Ford F150 XL and F150 XLT
In 2021 Ford F150 XLT came with many additional features that were either optional or not available for Ford F150 XL. some of these features are:
- Ford Co-pilot 360 system
- Lane-keeping system
- Reverse sensing system
- The Ford F150 XLT could also be equipped with LED headlamps instead of the default halogen headlamps. This option was not available to F150 XL models.
FAQs
What does XL and XLT stand for on Ford trucks?
The XLT and XL on Ford trucks stand for “Extra Luxurious Truck” and “Extra Large” respectively. The XL is the base model of every trim and is a much more affordable option. It generally comes with a few frills attached. The XLT, however, refers to trucks that have more features than the base model.
Is F150 XLT better than Limited?
The Ford F150 XLT is better than the F150 Limited in terms of affordability. The F150 Limited, however, is better than the F150 XLT in terms of features. The F150 limited has heated rear seats, leather upholstery, and many other features which are not available to the F150 XLT models.
Which year F-150 is the most reliable?
F150s of 1993 are considered to be the most reliable F150s due to their construction. Those F150 trucks had a hard body design. Some 1993 Ford F150 trucks are still operating with more than 300,000 miles traveled.
Conclusion
Now you know about Ford F150 XL vs XLT. This is a common question among people who are in the market for a new F150 truck. The two F150 trucks have many key differences based on the year of manufacture. Hopefully, I have managed to answer all your questions regarding the two F150 truck models. I expect you didn’t face much difficulty in reading this article.
That is it for today. Thank you for reading my article.
Good luck and goodbye!
