Introduction
Start the new year with more power in the 2025 Ford F-150. Whether your day involves hauling heavy loads, tackling weekend projects, or simply upgrading to a truck that handles work and family life easily, the Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat trims deliver the toughness and advanced towing and safety technology today’s drivers expect. Keep reading to find out which 2025 Ford F-150 has better towing capacity, features, and performance, the F-150 XLT or Lariat, in our detailed review to help you choose the Ford F-150 that fits your lifestyle and your goals for the year ahead.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 Ford F-150 lineup includes eight models, like the XLT and Lariat, and remains part of America’s best-selling truck series for 48 years.
- Both the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat are capable of off-road driving as 4x4 full-size pickup trucks.
- The 2025 F-150 is a Top Safety Pick and ranks among the best full-size pickup trucks on the road.
How does the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT compare to the Lariat?
Both the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat are powerful models in the F-series lineup, America’s best-selling line of trucks for 48 years, and they differ in several ways. One key difference is the standard drivetrain: the XLT has a 4x2 setup, while the Lariat features a 4x4 system. What’s great about Ford F-150 full-size trucks is that you have options, including upgrading the F-150 XLT to a 4x4 drivetrain instead of the standard 4x2.
Other differences between the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat include the powertrain and engine options, with the F-150 XLT coming standard with a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and offering choices like the 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, or the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6. The F-150 Lariat is a 4x4 with a 5.0L V8 engine and can choose either the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 or the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6.
Finally, the 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat offers more standard features and an interior with more upscale materials, including heated, power-adjustable leather-trimmed bucket seats, a heated steering wheel, optional heated rear seats for passengers, Ford BlueCruise technology, and other technology such as more standard selectable drive modes, a standard Remote Start System, and more. Remember, some of these features and technologies are optional on the Ford F-150 XLT, and no matter which setup you choose, you’re getting a full-size pickup truck ranked among the best by experts like Car and Driver and J.D. Power.
Which 2025 Ford F-150 is better for off-road, the XLT or the Lariat?
If you compare the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT and the Lariat side by side for their standard off-road capabilities, then the Lariat is the better off-road vehicle right from our dealership lot. However, don’t be too quick to dismiss the Ford F-150 XLT's off-road potential because you have the option to select the 4x4 drivetrain instead of the standard 4x2, along with other off-road tuned features and packages, including the FX4 Off-Road Package, which is available as an option for both the XLT and Lariat with the 4x4 drivetrain.
Should I choose the 2025 Ford F-150 XTL or the Lariat?
Choosing between the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT and Lariat is easier with our detailed comparison of features, power, and performance at Cogswell Ford. The final decision depends on what you need from your new 2025 Ford F-150 full-size truck.
If you prefer the practical interior of the XLT with the option to choose between V6 and V8 engines, including the full hybrid that comes standard with 4x2 and offers the power you need to tow travel trailers, toy haulers, and more, then rely on the standard features to include cab and bed size options, large digital displays, Rear View Camera, AdvanceTrac With Roll Stability Control, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and Trailer Tow Coverage, dual exhaust with dual tailpipes, and SelectShift automatic transmission with progressive range select.
If you want more luxury, comfort, and convenience, choose the upgraded 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat, which features premium materials, a high-quality Bang & Olufsen sound system, and more standard features. These include the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 safety technology, helping the F-series trucks earn recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a Top Safety Pick. With multiple power outlets inside and in the bed, such as a 400W outlet and the available 2.4kW or 7.2kW Pro Power Onboard source, your 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat is more than a truck that can tow, it’s also a power source for the job site or during power outages.
Safe, Reliable, and Comfortable
It’s a new year, and now is the perfect time to visit Cogswell Ford to upgrade your vehicle to a new 2025 Ford F-150 full-size pickup. It’s available in eight models, including the XLT and Lariat, both powerful, capable, comfortable, and impressive. Enjoy the power of America’s best-selling truck for 48 years, the Ford F-150 from Cogswell Motors, River Valley’s top dealership with friendly professionals and the best selection of vehicles.