It's not just a time of year when you buy flowers and chocolates. It's also an excellent time to treat yourself to a vehicle upgrade to a new Ford F-150, America's favorite truck. Choosing the right full-size 2026 Ford F-150 starts with understanding what models offer.
Whether you want affordable features and optional upgrades in a reliable full-size truck or a more refined Ford F-150 with added comfort and convenience, our comparison will help you decide between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT to find the best match for your workday, lifestyle, and weekends off.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 differences between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT full-size trucks include style, engine options, and standard features.
- The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine can tow up to 13,500 pounds, 700 pounds more than the STX's maximum when properly equipped.
- Upgrades, available options, and the power to perform on the road, off-road, and everywhere in between are just some of the reasons America loves the Ford 2025 F-150.
What's the difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT full-size trucks?
From style to engine options, the differences between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT full-size trucks add up, but both still offer plenty of features and power, making this full-size pickup truck a top pick among drivers and experts, including J.D. Power. The Ford F-150 STX sits above the base model XL, offering added comfort and features. The XLT model sits above the STX in the 2026 Ford F-150 lineup, so with the upgrade, you get more available options, including chrome bumpers and grille.
Both the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT are available in the same exterior colors: Antimatter Blue Metallic, Argon Blue Metallic, Agate Black Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Iconic Silver Metallic, and Oxford White. They are also available in 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains for maximum versatility. The most significant differences lie in style, comfort, convenience, and power. The Ford F-150 STX features smaller displays (with optional upgrades) and fewer available trailering technologies, such as Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and Trailer Reverse Guidance, which are optional on the XLT.
Which engines are available for the 2026 Ford F-150 STX compared with the XLT?
The 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT are powerful full-size trucks, but each model offers different engine options, with the XLT offering more than the STX. Both the Ford F-150 STX and XLT come standard with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with twin intercooled turbochargers. The F-150 STX offers an additional engine option, while the XLT offers three more, plus the option of the 30.6-gallon fuel tank.
Powertrain and Handling
| Options |
2026 Ford F-150 STX |
2026 Ford F-150 XLT |
| 2.7 litre EcoBoost V6 |
Standard |
Standard |
| 3.5 litre EcoBoost V6 |
Not Available |
Optional |
| 5.0 litre V8 |
Optional |
Optional |
| 4x2 Drivetrain |
Standard |
Standard |
| 4x4 Drivetrain |
Optional |
Optional |
While the 2026 Ford STX delivers sporty style, power, and capability, the F-150 XLT SuperCrew cab with the available 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, Tow/Haul Package, and optional Max Tow Axle delivers the power to tow up to 13,500 pounds. The 2026 Ford F-150 STX with the 5.0L V8 engine has a maximum towing capacity of 12,800 pounds when properly equipped.
Should I choose the full-size 2026 Ford F-150 STX or the XLT model?
The 2026 Ford F-150 STX is the perfect full-size truck for you if you want the efficiency and power of the V6 engine, the option to select the 5.0L V8, an optional 4x4 drivetrain, and the F-150 Lobo Package, which adds elevated street style.
From the optional Console Work Surface to other available features such as the 400W outlet and the aluminum crossbed storage toolbox by Weather Guard, the 2026 Ford F-150 STX can be upgraded inside and out.
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT is the upgrade powerhouse you want to drive if you need a workhorse on the road and at the job site, with an office on the go.
The available Pro Power Onboard, optional bed storage boxes for additional storage and more organization, along with available heated front seats, Connected Navigation, upgraded B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, large displays, available power-adjustable pedals, wireless charging pad, and other features for more comfort and convenience add to the legendary power and performance of the reliable Ford F-150 XLT model hailed by Car and Driver as one of the best trucks on the road.
Why Should I Buy a 2026 Ford F-150 STX From Karl Flammer?
Karl Flammer Ford is your resource for the Gulf Coast's best inventory of 2026 Ford F-150 STX. Shop our inventory online and use our easy online credit application, or stop by our showroom in Tarpon Springs and let us help you find the perfect vehicle upgrade this year.