Blog Cover Image

All posts

2025 Ford F-150 XLT vs. Lariat and STX: Comprehensive Comparison for Oklahoma Truck Buyers

Published on Sep 15, 2025 by DDM Devs

2025 Ford F-150 XLT Blog Post

When searching for a full-size pickup that combines rugged capability, modern technology, and everyday practicality, the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT stands above other variants like the Lariat and STX trims.

Available at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon, conveniently located at 1780 Garth Brooks Blvd, Yukon, OK 73099 and serving communities including Yukon, Oklahoma City, Mustang, and Edmond, the F-150 XLT offers the best blend of power, technology, and value for drivers across the state.

Call us today at (405) 354-1111 to explore inventory and schedule a test drive.


Clear Leadership: Overview and Recommendations - Ford F-150

Clear Leadership: Overview and Recommendations

Ford F-150 XLT Exterior

In the highly competitive realm of full-size trucks, the three trims of the 2025 Ford F-150 — XLT, Lariat, and STX — each offer distinct traits. Yet, the XLT trim emerges as the most well-rounded selection for drivers around Yukon and nearby towns such as Bethany, Moore, and Piedmont.

While the Lariat leans toward luxury and the STX targets budget-conscious drivers, the XLT strikes the ideal balance by incorporating compelling powertrain options, practical features, and affordability.

Ford F-150 Engine Performance

The XLT provides robust power with multiple engine choices including the efficient 2.7L twin-turbo V6 and the more potent 3.5L hybrid V6, delivering compelling torque values essential for both daily driving and worksite challenges prevalent around Oklahoma City and Union City.

Unlike the STX, which forgoes some key lighting and assistance features, and the Lariat, which trades affordability for luxury, the XLT offers features tailored to maximize value without unnecessary compromises.

Ford F-150 Interior Features

This comparison will guide prospective buyers through critical factors such as performance, interior comfort, technology sophistication, safety features, and ownership costs — confidently positioning the Ford F-150 XLT as the smartest pickup option available amidst its direct Ford siblings.

Distinct Personalities:
Meet the F-150 XLT, Lariat, and STX

The 2025 lineup showcases the trusted F-150 platform with nuanced trim differentiators:

Specification 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Base Price (Approximate) $53,995 (4WD Long Bed SuperCrew) $63,360 (4WD Short Bed SuperCrew) $45,015 (2WD SuperCab)
Engine Options 2.7L twin-turbo V6, 3.5L hybrid V6 5.0L V8 standard; optional 3.5L twin-turbo V6 2.7L twin-turbo V6, 5.0L V8
Drivetrain Choices RWD or 4WD RWD or 4WD RWD or 4WD
Wheels Standard 18-inch, optional 18-inch chrome-look 20-inch wheels standard 18-inch gloss-black wheels
Key Exterior Features Chrome accents optional; zone lighting optional Chrome front/rear bumpers; adaptive LED headlights Gloss-black accents; no LED fog lamps
Interior Trim Cloth/upholstered with optional package upgrade ActiveX-trimmed seats Basic cloth seating
Safety Features Front automatic braking, blind spot, lane-keep assist standard Adds adaptive cruise control, additional trailer assist features Basic safety features

The XLT represents a versatile middle ground — financially accessible to drivers in Mustang or Warr Acres, while outfitted with modern features that improve driving confidence and comfort beyond the STX.

Meanwhile, though the Lariat offers more refined materials and some luxury touches, the steep price hike limits accessibility for many consumers seeking value.


Power and Driving Excellence: How the XLT Outshines

For drivers across Oklahoma’s diverse terrain — from city streets in Oklahoma City to rural roads near Piedmont — the F-150 XLT delivers a satisfying mix of power and efficiency that accommodates both work and leisure.

Performance Metrics 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Engine Options 2.7L twin-turbo V6 (325 hp / 400 lb-ft torque); 3.5L twin-turbo hybrid V6 (430 hp / 570 lb-ft) 5.0L V8 (400 hp / 410 lb-ft); optional 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp / 500 lb-ft) 2.7L twin-turbo V6 (325 hp / 400 lb-ft); 5.0L V8 (400 hp / 410 lb-ft)
Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic
0-60 mph Acceleration Approximately 5.0 seconds (hybrid powertrain) Approximately 5.5 seconds (V8) Approximately 6.0 seconds
Towing Capacity (max) Up to 13,500 pounds Up to 13,000 pounds Up to 13,000 pounds
Braking Distance (70-0 mph) 185 feet 190 feet 195 feet
Off-Road Packages FX4 and Tremor optional FX4 and Tremor optional FX4 package optional

The XLT's hybrid option not only delivers best-in-class torque to handle heavy payloads common in and around Union City but also fast acceleration, edging out the STX's slower times and matching or surpassing the Lariat's V8 in power delivery.

Moreover, the XLT benefits from advanced suspension tuning with available FX4 or Tremor off-road packages, supporting off-road capabilities for buyers venturing from Bethany into rougher terrain or construction sites near Moore.


Styling Statements: Exterior Craftsmanship Compared

The visual appeal of a truck often reflects the owner's personality whether cruising through Yukon or parked on a Mustang job site. The Ford F-150 XLT has been carefully styled to combine rugged utility with modern aesthetics that appeal to a broad customer base.

Exterior Features 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Grille & Chrome Accents Black grille standard; chrome accents optional (XLT 301A package adds bright anodized accents) Chrome grille and bumpers standard Gloss-black grille and black trim only
Headlights & Fog Lamps Halogen headlights; LED lighting optional on packages Adaptive LED headlights & fog lamps Halogen headlights; LED fog lamps removed
Wheel Options 18-inch standard; 18-inch chrome-look optional 20-inch standard wheels Gloss-black 18-inch wheels only
Running Boards Optional anodized step bars 6-foot running boards standard Running boards removed
New Paint Colors Includes Marsh Grey and Space White Metallic Same as XLT Same as XLT

While the Lariat flaunts more chrome on the exterior befitting its premium positioning, the XLT offers the perfect balance of style and functionality with optional chrome upgrades and versatile wheel choices.

The STX takes a sportier, blacked-out approach with its gloss-black accents and wheels, appealing to buyers who prefer a more aggressive, understated look without the premium Lariat pricing.


Comfort and Cabin Efficiency

When measuring pickup comfort, factors such as usability, space, and quality demand equal focus. The XLT trim enhances these areas and ensures a more pleasant experience for drivers and passengers alike.

Passenger Space and Interior Materials
Both the XLT and Lariat offer SuperCrew configurations with seating for five passengers. However, the XLT balances generous passenger room with durable cloth upholstery optionally upgraded via packages, while the Lariat moves exclusively toward upscale ActiveX-trimmed surfaces which may add cost without drastic comfort improvements for many occupants in Mustang or Yukon daily commutes.

Interior Measurements 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Front Passenger Volume 65 cubic feet 65 cubic feet 65 cubic feet
Rear Passenger Volume 67 cubic feet 67 cubic feet 67 cubic feet
Upholstery Type Cloth standard, eight-way power driver seat optional ActiveX-trimmed seats, heated/ventilated available Cloth standard, manual seats only
Climate Control Dual-zone automatic climate standard Dual-zone automatic climate standard Single-zone manual climate

Ergonomics and Convenience Features
The 2025 F-150 XLT supplies an intuitive cabin layout benefiting from user-friendly shifters, logical storage, and practical driver aids. Standout features like the eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat (via the 301A package) and dual-zone climate control, now standard, contribute to cab comfort throughout long hauls or city driving around Piedmont.

The Lariat ups the ante with heated and ventilated seating and premium steering wheel materials, yet these add-ons come with a higher purchase price, making the XLT's value proposition more attractive for most truck users not requiring luxury touches. In contrast, the STX misses out on comfort enhancements like power seats or dual-zone temperature controls, reinforcing the XLT's practical superiority.


Technology Smarts: Infotainment and Connectivity Battles

Technology in the Ford F-150 lineup serves both convenience and safety, and the XLT notably manages to integrate advanced systems without demanding Lariat-level investments.

Technology Features 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Infotainment Screen 12.0-inch touchscreen with Sync 4 system 12.0-inch touchscreen 12.0-inch touchscreen
Smartphone Integration Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Same Same
Over-the-Air Updates Standard Standard Standard
Optional Tech Packages Wireless charging pad, Wi-Fi hotspot, Bang & Olufsen audio Wireless charging, premium audio, head-up display No wireless charging, limited audio
Semi-Autonomous Driving (BlueCruise) Available with trial and subscription options Available with trial and subscription options Available with trial and subscription options

Despite sharing the same base infotainment display and connectivity across all trims, the XLT distinguishes itself by offering accessible tech package upgrades that notably enhance the driving experience.

For the truck owners in communities like Moore or Union City who demand connected navigation and superior audio systems, the XLT strikes the best compromise between available features and cost.


Safety Suite and Driver Aids: Confidence You Can Rely On

Safety remains paramount for pickup owners with families or those hauling trailers around Bethany or Warr Acres. The XLT's safety profile keeps pace with competitors and often surpasses the STX.

Safety Feature 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Standard Automated Emergency Braking Yes Yes Yes
Blind-Spot Monitoring Standard Standard Standard
Lane-Keeping Assist Standard Standard Standard
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Standard Standard Standard
360-Degree Camera System Optional (removed as standard on XLT 2025) Optional Not available
Pro Trailer Backup & Hitch Assist Optional Standard Not available
BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving Available Available Available

Though the Lariat offers additional trailering aids as standard, these features come with a higher price tag.

XLT owners retain the ability to add advanced trailer assist and camera systems, achieving superior utility at better ROI compared to the STX, whose reduced equipment limits towing safety features.


Fuel Efficiency and Economy: Smart Power Choices

Oklahoma drivers demand efficient trucks due to the growing stretches between stops in rural areas near Piedmont or Union City. The hybrid powertrain on the XLT provides a distinct edge.

Powertrain 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Base Engine Fuel Economy (City/Highway, mpg) 18/23 (2.7L V6); 22/24 (3.5L hybrid V6) 15/20 (5.0L V8); 17/25 (3.5L twin-turbo V6) 18/23 (2.7L V6); 15/20 (5.0L V8)
Combined EPA Rating (mpg) ~20 mpg combined (with hybrid) 16–18 mpg combined (mostly gas engines) 17 mpg combined
Estimated Driving Range (Highway) Up to 610 miles Up to 600 miles Up to 580 miles

The XLT's hybrid variant particularly shines in fuel economy and driving range advantages, ideal for customers commuting between Oklahoma City, Mustang, and surrounding suburban or rural communities.

This unmistakable edge leads to savings on fuel over time while maintaining best-in-class performance for heavy-duty tasks.


Everyday Practicality and Usability

Truck owners value ease of use and cargo flexibility when tackling daily challenges or weekend projects. The XLT provides configurations and features that enhance work and recreational usage.

Practicality Feature 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Cab Styles Regular, SuperCab, SuperCrew Same Same
Bed Lengths 5.5 ft, 6.5 ft, 8.0 ft Same Same
Cargo Volume (Short Bed) 52.8 cubic feet 52.8 cubic feet 52.8 cubic feet
Pro Access Tailgate Feature Available Available Available
Trailer Tow Features Pro Trailer Backup Assist optional Pro Trailer Backup Assist standard Not available

Unlike the STX, which excludes several trailer and cargo assist systems, the XLT offers practical aids that make towing jobs seamless and safe throughout Oklahoma's varied surroundings, including areas like Bethany and Warr Acres.

The flexibility in cab and bed sizing suits customers needing customization without overpaying for luxury items more prominent on the Lariat.


Value Proposition and Ownership Costs

A crucial consideration at Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon is ensuring that drivers across Yukon, Edmond, and nearby areas receive strong value for their investment. The XLT's pricing hits an optimal sweet spot between affordability and capability.

Ownership Aspect 2025 Ford F-150 XLT 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat 2025 Ford F-150 STX
Starting MSRP Approximate $53,995 (SuperCrew, 4WD, Long Bed) $63,360 (Short Bed, 4WD, SuperCrew) $45,015 (SuperCab, 2WD)
Warranty Coverage 3 years/36,000 miles limited, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain Same Same
Estimated Fuel Costs Lower with hybrid option Higher with V8 engines Moderate
Maintenance & Service Supported by Joe Cooper Ford's Service Scheduler Same Same
Technology & Feature Upgrades Moderate-cost optional packages Higher cost optional and standard luxury Basic feature set

Even with Lariat's added luxury finishings, many buyers recognize that the XLT's feature-to-price ratio is unmatched, especially with the choice of hybrid technology and available convenience packages.

For those drivers in Mustang and Moore considering long-term ownership costs, the XLT delivers measurable savings and flexibility.



Summing Up: Why the 2025 Ford F-150 XLT Reigns Supreme

Choosing the right truck means weighing numerous factors including power, comfort, technology, safety, and overall value. The 2025 Ford F-150 XLT consistently outperforms its direct competition from the Lariat and STX trims by offering stellar combinations of powertrain options, cutting-edge tech features, and exceptional driveability.

For residents across Yukon, Oklahoma City, and neighboring communities like Bethany and Piedmont, the XLT presents an outstanding all-around pickup that doesn't demand premium pricing to deliver premium results. It accommodates everything from rugged work demands to daily commuting with ease and style.

Visit Joe Cooper Ford

Visit Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon today to experience firsthand why the F-150 XLT is the proven champion. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to assist you with your next truck purchase, facilitate a test drive, and provide expert aftersales service. Call (405) 354-1111 or stop by 1780 Garth Brooks Blvd to get started.


© 2025 Joe Cooper Ford of Yukon

Like this feature? See all vehicles with

Like this feature? See all vehicles with

Like this feature? See all vehicles with