The 2025 Ford F-150 XLT sits in that sweet middle ground of the pickup's lineup, with enough power, comfort, and features without creeping toward top-trim pricing. If you’re deciding between it and the entry-level XL, the differences start to matter quickly. Here’s a fresh look at how both truck trims compare when you line up their features and performance numbers.
Key Takeaways
- The XLT offers three engine options, including a full hybrid setup.
- With the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, the F-150 can tow up to 13,500 pounds.
- As of November 13, the 2025 Ford XL starts at $40,045; the XLT begins at $47,890.
2025 F-150 XL vs XLT Changes and Pricing
The 2025 model year continues unchanged after a nearly full redesign in '24. The one lineup addition is the new Lobo trim, but beyond that, the XL and XLT return with the same choices as last year.
Pricing for these two trims is:
The XL is the practical, work-ready foundation for the lineup. The XL starts things off with 17-inch steel wheels and includes LED headlights, keyless entry, and a Class IV trailer hitch right from the base spec. Inside, vinyl flooring hoses off easily, whether the truck is hauling tools all week or pulling family duty on the weekends. The XL comes with a 12-inch SYNC 4 infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a digital gauge cluster.
The XLT swaps the XL’s steel wheels for 18-inch alloys and replaces the vinyl flooring with carpeting. A power-adjustable driver’s seat and dual-zone automatic climate control both come standard. It also includes a 360-degree camera system and Pro Trailer Backup Assist.
Towing and Engine Options for the 2025 F-150 XL vs XLT
The XL and XLT feature a standard 325-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, but its optional upgrades include the 400-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 and the 400-horsepower 5.0-liter V8. All three engines pair with rear-wheel or four-wheel drive.
For the broadest range of capability and efficiency, the XLT also offers the 430-horsepower hybrid version of the 3.5-liter V6, which blends electric torque with traditional truck pulling strength.
The hybrid tows up to 12,700 pounds, but the strongest tow rating otherwise belongs to the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 at 13,500 pounds when properly equipped. Even the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 remains impressive at 13,000 pounds. Payload capacity for the F-150 tops out at 2,455 pounds, depending on configuration.
Fuel Efficiency for the 2025 F-150
Fuel economy varies with your choice of engine. The 2.7-liter turbo V6 returns up to 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 dips slightly to 17 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. The hybrid lands right in the middle, at around 22 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, depending on options and drivetrain.
Choosing Between the 2025 Ford F150 XL and XLT Levels
If a truck that can tow, haul, and stay comfortable without climbing into luxury pricing is what you’re after, both trims make sense. The XL keeps things simple and affordable, while the XLT brings more comfort, more tech, and more engine flexibility. The best way to decide is to get behind the wheel of both and see which setup feels like the right fit! Stop by our Banner Ford of Monroe showroom today.