2026 Ford F-150 XLT Vs. STX Trim Comparison: Specs, Features & Tech
Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT Trim Level Comparison: Key Takeaways
- The STX has a lower starting price than the XLT but includes fewer standard features
- The F-150 XLT offers more engine options and available packages
- Safety is paramount in both trucks thanks to standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0
- Both trims offer the same cab and bed configurations; the XLT can tow more via its additional engine option
Ford F-150 XLT vs. STX Comparison: Which Should You Choose?
If you're shopping for a full-size pickup truck that doesn't compromise or break the bank, this F-150 STX vs. XLT comparison will help you narrow your options. These two trim levels have similar capabilities, but they differ in a few key ways. Learn more about the second and third trims in the F-150 lineup below to see which one calls to you. Then, visit Lorenzo Ford in Homestead, FL, for a test drive.
2026 F-150 STX vs. XLT Main Differences
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| 2026 Ford F-150 STX | 2026 Ford F-150 XLT |
Standard Engine |
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| 2.7L EcoBoost V-6 | 2.7L EcoBoost V-6 |
Available Engines |
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Available Packages |
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Technology & Features |
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| Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0 – Standard | Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0 – Standard |
| Ford BlueCruise – N/A | Ford BlueCruise – Available |
| Console Work Surface – Available | Console Work Surface – Available |
| Remote Keyless Entry System – Standard | Remote Keyless Entry System – Standard |
| Exterior Zone Lighting – Available | Exterior Zone Lighting – Standard |
| Center Touchscreen – 12-in w/ SYNC 4 | Center Touchscreen – 12-in w/ SYNC 4 |
| B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® – N/A | B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® – Available |
| Standard Gauge Cluster – 12-in Digital Productivity Screen | Standard Gauge Cluster – 12-in Digital Productivity Screen |
| Standard Seat Upholstery – Unique Sport Cloth | Standard Seat Upholstery – Cloth |
| Standard Driver's Seat Functions – Power lumbar support |
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| Available Driver's Seat Functions – N/A |
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2026 Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT Exterior Design & Features
Both trims live and breathe Ford toughness, but unique design differences distinguish them for drivers in Homestead, FL. The black and dark gray grille and body-color front and rear bumpers keep the STX consistent across its exterior. It also comes standard with 18-inch black-painted aluminum wheels.
The Ford F-150 XLT is built with a darker aesthetic. A black front bumper and rear chrome bumper, plus the standard 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels, stand out against every body color. Meanwhile, a chrome center bar complements the black front grille.
While beauty is in the eye of the beholder, both sides of the Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT comparison have their fans. These trims are equipped with practical amenities such as LED reflector headlights, a power-locking tailgate, bed storage boxes, and four cargo tie-downs. The STX offers available zone lighting, while the XLT comes standard with it. Skid plates can be added to either variant for enhanced protection when the going gets tough.
Ford F-150 XLT vs. STX Engines & Performance
The Ford F-150 XLT has a direct advantage over the STX regarding engine options. While both models feature the standard 2.7-liter V-6 engine, the F-150 STX only offers the 5.0-liter Ti-VCT V-8 and 3.5-liter PowerBoost hybrid V-6 as optional upgrades.
Only the XLT trim can access the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, which enables the F-150 truck's maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds (when properly equipped). However, since both trucks offer the Powerboost hybrid engine in the same configurations, they can both achieve the same maximum MPG rating.
These two trucks come equipped with similar performance features, including a 10-speed automatic transmission, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist, and Selectable Drive Modes.
Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT Interior Amenities & Technology
Despite being the second trim in the lineup, the STX boasts a wide range of advanced features, including a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4, FordPass Connect™, and a 12-volt power outlet. Interior design elements include color-coordinated carpeting with floor mats, a flow-through center console with a column shifter, a black urethane steering wheel, and unique sport cloth upholstery.
The XLT, the third-level trim of the new Ford F-150 for sale, brings the same impressive technology to the table but adds several upgrades, including standard remote keyless entry and driver-seat memory settings. The XLT can also be configured with several options not offered on the STX, including a premium B&O® Sound System, heated front seats, and Ford BlueCruise.
Both trims can be equipped with the Mobile Office Package and an available console work surface. For safety, the STX and XLT both include the standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ 2.0 package, which features:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Forward Collision Warning
- Lane-Keeping System
- Post-Collision Braking
- Reverse Sensing System
Ford F-150 XLT vs. STX Configurations: Cab & Bed
Unlike other aspects of the Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT matchup, the cab and bed offerings between these two trim levels are the same. No matter which you choose, you can select the Super Cab or SuperCrew and the 5.5- or 6.5-foot bed. Exact pairings may differ slightly.
See the STX vs. XLT Compared for Yourself at Lorenzo Ford
Whether you've figured out which trim you'd prefer or need further guidance, let our team in Homestead, FL, lend a hand. Our vast inventory is complemented by rotating Ford F-150 specials that can lead you toward the configuration of your dreams, well within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT?
The primary differences between the Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT are price, performance, and features. The Ford F-150 STX is the second trim option in the lineup, so it is priced lower than the XLT. However, it still has great features, such as a 12-inch touchscreen and LED headlights. The XLT grants access to upgrades like driver's seat memory settings and Ford BlueCruise.
Which trim is higher, the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT or the STX?
The XLT trim level is the higher of the two, serving as the third trim of the 2026 Ford F-150, compared to the STX, which is the second. While both variants possess similar amenities, such as the SYNC 4 infotainment system and cargo tie-downs, the XLT has a few more engine options and standard upgrades, as well as a slightly higher price tag.
What are the 2026 Ford F-150 trim levels?
There are eight Ford F-150 trim levels available for 2026, including:
- XL
- STX
- XLT
- Lariat
- Tremor
- King Ranch
- Platinum
- Raptor
The first four trim levels are quite popular, and a Ford F-150 STX vs. XLT comparison is usually the first step in the shopping process. See our extensive selection at Lorenzo Ford to check them out for yourself.
Ford F-150 Customer Reviews From Florida
L_ifted
08/18/2024
What a pleasant experience buying my truck at Lorenzo a ford. David Barreto and Victor worked every angle of the deal until I was happy and ready to sign the dotted line. The whole back office too a huge shout out to them for making me happy. Ana over in finance was a pleasure to deal with and I will for sure be going back when it’s time for another F-150. They did a great job and earned a customer for life.
Eddie Lavin
07/18/2025
Thank you Mr Lorenzo for allowing Adrian and Ariel for assisting me with my new beautiful F-150. Ps Christian at the cashier is a great front desk clerk.
Ryan Pardillo
07/18/2025
I found myself an F-150 that I saw online and was in communication with Thomas through the whole process! I live in Lakeland FL so he held the truck for me and even stayed late to make this deal happen
| Monday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 9:00PM |
| Sunday | 11:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Tuesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Wednesday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Thursday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Friday | 7:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Saturday | 7:00AM - 3:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
1EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.