The biggest difference between the 2017 F-150 XLT and the F-150 Lariat is found under the hood. The XLT comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine which produces 282 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque; while the Lariat features a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V-6 that makes 325 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque (optional on the XLT) both are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. At the top of the range (optional on both models) is a twin-turbo 3.5-liter Ecoboost V-6 which is rated at 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Also available is a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V-8 that puts out 385 horsepower and 387 pound-feet of torque. The extra muscle allows the standard Lariat to out-tow the standard XLT by almost 1,000 lbs. and carry more than the standard XLT by about 300 lbs.
The XLT comes in three cab configurations – regular cab, SuperCab, and SuperCrew. The Lariat is only available as a SuperCab and SuperCrew, and can’t be purchased as a regular cab. Therefore, a three-seater front bench is not available on the Lariat. Both the XLT and Lariat can be equipped with either 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, or 8-foot beds.
Both the XLT and the Lariat reside above the base XL model in the F-Series line. As such, they come pretty well equipped. Heated and cooled leather-trimmed seats are standard in the Lariat. The XLT gets cloth seats. 10-way power driver and front passenger seats that come with the Lariat are optional on the XLT. Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control in Lariat versus Manual air conditioning, Single Zone in the XLT. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is standard in Lariat and optional in XLT. You can also get a Sony AM/FM stereo with single-CD and HD Radio in the Lariat that isn’t available in the XLT.
Whichever you decide, you can’t go wrong. All F-Series models are imbued with legendary Ford toughness, capability, and versatility. It’s safe to say you’d hard-pressed to find a better truck, The Lariat comes with extra goodies but at a higher price point. And most of Lariat’s standard equipment comes optional on the XLT. So, from a pure value standpoint, the XLT comes out on top. If you want to get behind the wheel of either or both, give us a call. We’ll set you up with a test drive, and walk you through the differences between the two.
All figures are EPA estimates. Actual mileage may vary.
