The Ford F-150 continues its legacy as one of the most popular pickup trucks on the market. With each model year, Ford introduces updates and refinements to keep the F-150 competitive and appealing to truck enthusiasts. Let’s look at the key differences between the new Ford F-150 XLT and its predecessor, helping potential buyers understand what changes to expect when choosing between these two model years.

Exterior Updates

Front Fascia Redesign

The F-150 XLT features subtle yet noticeable updates to its front end compared to the previous model:

• Revised grille design with a more prominent Ford logo
• Refreshed headlight shape and LED signature lighting pattern
• Modified front bumper with updated fog light housing
• New front skid plate design for off-road protection

Wheel Options

Ford has introduced new wheel designs for the F-150 XLT:

• Standard 18-inch aluminum wheels with a new spoke pattern
• Optional 20-inch wheels with machine-finished faces and painted pockets
• New wheel finish options, including dark carbonized and bright machined aluminum

Color Palette

The new model year brings several paint colour adjustments:

• Discontinued colours from 2025: Atlas Blue and Antimatter Blue
• New colours: Desert Sand and Northern Lights
• Refined metallic options with improved paint technology

Interior Enhancements

Seating and Materials

The F-150 XLT receives updates to its interior materials and comfort features:

• New cloth seat pattern exclusive to the new model
• Improved seat foam density for better comfort during long drives
• Updated interior colour schemes with new accent stitching options
• Enhanced sound insulation materials throughout the cabin

Dashboard and Controls

Several changes have been made to the dashboard and control layout:

• Redesigned air vents with improved directional control
• Updated steering wheel design with new button layout
• Revised instrument cluster graphics
• Refreshed center console organization with improved storage solutions

Cargo Management

The bed and cargo management system receives attention in the new model:

• Enhanced tailgate step system with improved deployment mechanism
• Updated box side steps for easier bed access
• Revised tie-down points with higher weight ratings
• New bed liner material with improved scratch and dent resistance

Technology Advancements

Infotainment System

The F-150 XLT features significant upgrades to its infotainment capabilities:

• Updated SYNC system with faster processing and enhanced voice recognition
• Standard 12-inch touchscreen (up from 8-inch in most 2025 XLT configurations)
• Wireless smartphone integration now standard
• Improved resolution and graphics for all displays

Digital Cluster

The driver information display sees meaningful updates:

• New customizable layouts in the digital instrument cluster
• Enhanced graphics with better visibility in various lighting conditions
• More detailed trip and vehicle information displays
• Improved integration with navigation and driver assistance features

Connectivity Features

The new model enhances how drivers stay connected:

• Upgraded wireless charging pad with faster charging capabilities
• Additional USB-C ports throughout the cabin
• Enhanced mobile app functionality with more remote features
• Improved over-the-air update system for faster software upgrades

Powertrain Options

Engine Lineup

The F-150 XLT offers a revised engine selection:

• Updated 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with slight power increase (now 330 hp, up from 325 hp)
• Refined 5.0L V8 with improved fuel management system
• Enhanced 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid system with greater electric-only range
• New engine calibrations for improved throttle response across all powertrains

Transmission Refinements

Ford has updated the transmission performance:

• Recalibrated 10-speed automatic transmission for smoother shifts
• Improved tow/haul mode programming for enhanced trailer control
• Updated electronic shift-on-the-fly system for 4×4 models
• New transmission cooling system for better durability under load

Fuel Economy

The new model delivers slight improvements in efficiency:

• Approximately 3% better city fuel economy across most engine options
• Enhanced auto start-stop system with smoother operation
• Improved aerodynamics contributing to highway efficiency gains
• New fuel-saving technologies in hybrid variants

Safety and Driver Assistance

Ford Co-Pilot360

The F-150 XLT expands its standard safety technology package:

• Blind Spot Information System now standard (was optional on 2025 XLT)
• Enhanced Pre-Collision Assist with updated pedestrian detection
• Improved Lane-Keeping System with more natural steering assistance
• Standard Reverse Sensing System across all XLT configurations

Advanced Driver Assistance

New driver assistance features debut in the new model:

• Updated Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with improved traffic detection
• Enhanced Active Park Assist system with better space recognition
• New intersection assistance technology to detect cross traffic
• Improved trailer backup assistance with clearer guidance graphics

Structural Enhancements

Ford continues to improve the F-150 safety structure:

• Additional high-strength steel in key areas of the frame
• Revised crumple zones for improved crash energy management
• Enhanced side impact protection systems
• Upgraded front crash prevention structure

Towing and Payload Capabilities

Towing Features

The F-150 XLT offers improved towing technologies:

• Updated Pro Trailer Backup Assist with enhanced camera views
• New trailer brake controller with more precise modulation
• Improved Trailer Reverse Guidance system with clearer visual aids
• Enhanced trailer sway control algorithm

Payload Enhancements

Cargo carrying capabilities see modest improvements:

• Slight increase in maximum payload capacity (approximately 40 kg more)
• Revised bed floor structure for improved durability
• New cargo management options, including adjustable tie-down points
• Enhanced box side steps for easier access to the cargo area

Work-Ready Features

Ford has added practical upgrades for work functionality:

• Updated Pro Power Onboard system with improved output stability
• Enhanced tailgate work surface with more integrated features
• New storage solutions for tools and equipment
• Improved lighting around the bed and work areas

Packages and Options

XLT Sport Package

The popular XLT Sport Package receives updates:

• New body-colored bumpers and grille design
• Updated sport appearance wheels
• Revised interior accent package with new colour options
• Additional black exterior trim elements

Technology Package

The Technology Package has been enhanced with new features:

• Updated 360-degree camera system with improved resolution
• Enhanced navigation system with more detailed mapping
• New premium audio options with improved sound quality
• Additional connected vehicle services

FX4 Off-Road Package

The off-road-focused package sees meaningful upgrades:

• Recalibrated off-road suspension tuning
• New skid plate designs for better undercarriage protection
• Updated off-road driving modes with enhanced capabilities
• Improved hill descent control system

Ownership Experience

Warranty Coverage

Ford maintains its competitive warranty offerings:

• Standard 3-year/60,000 km basic warranty (unchanged)
• 5-year/100,000 km powertrain protection (unchanged)
• New optional extended protection plans
• Enhanced roadside assistance program

Maintenance Schedule

The latest model benefits from engineering improvements:

• Extended oil change intervals with improved filtration system
• New transmission fluid with longer service life
• Reduced maintenance requirements for brake components
• Enhanced diagnostic systems for better service center experience

Owner Technology

Ford has improved the ownership technology experience:

• Updated FordPass app with new truck-specific features
• Enhanced vehicle health monitoring capabilities
• Improved service scheduling and maintenance tracking
• New loyalty benefits integrated into digital ownership tools

Which Ford F-150 XLT Should You Choose? 

While the differences between the Ford F-150 XLT models may not represent a complete redesign, the cumulative effect of the updates creates a noticeably improved truck. The new model builds on the strengths of its predecessor with thoughtful enhancements to technology, comfort, capability, and efficiency.

For buyers considering these two model years, the decision may come down to specific feature preferences, availability, and potential incentives. The new F-150 XLT offers meaningful improvements in several key areas, particularly in standard technology and safety features, while maintaining the core attributes that have made the F-150 a perennial favourite among truck buyers.

Whether you prioritize the latest technology, enhanced comfort, improved efficiency, or stronger capabilities, understanding these key differences will help you determine which model year best suits your needs and preferences.

Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.