The 2025 Ford F-150 keeps its trim structure familiar, and two of the most commonly cross-shopped versions are the STX and the XLT. The STX sits just above the XL, while the XLT takes its upgrades a step further without drifting into higher-priced territory. Looking at these trucks side by side makes their differences easier to spot, especially for buyers trying to stay within a specific budget. Let's break down their features below in this 2025 Ford F-150 STX vs XLT feature comparison.
Key Takeaways
- The 2025 F-150 lineup carries over with only minor changes.
- Max towing hits 13,500 pounds with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6.
- As of November 17, 2025, the STX starts at $44,610, and the XLT begins at $48,290.
Pricing and Updates for the 2025 F-150 XLT and STX
Ford made only light adjustments for 2025 after the F-150's major refresh rolled out the year before. The only change is in the Lobo trim, a newcomer in the lineup. Beyond that addition, the rest of the trims carry over with the same equipment and options. Pricing sits relatively close but still shows a meaningful gap. The STX comes in at $44,610, while the XLT starts at $48,290.
How the 2025 F-150 XLT and STX Compare
The STX builds off the (base) XL and shifts the truck toward a more comfortable daily-driver setup. Ford added larger alloys and vinyl flooring, which immediately makes the cabin feel less work-oriented. The STX also opens up access to more optional packages than the XL, giving buyers a wider range of ways to tailor the truck to their needs.
The XLT goes a step further and layers in more useful features from the start. A manual sliding rear window, LED bed lighting, and a 120-volt household-style outlet make workdays and weekend trips easier. Inside, the XLT adds a wireless charging pad, cloud-based navigation, and remote start. Safety technology increases as well, with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, lane-keeping assistance, rear parking sensors, and a digital rearview mirror that stays clear even when the bed is fully loaded.
Engines, Towing, and Capability in the STX and XLT
Both trims begin with the 325-horsepower 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, but buyers can also choose the 400-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 or the 400-horsepower 5.0-liter V8. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive are available across all engines, and the hybrid version of the 3.5-liter V6 remains in the lineup for drivers who want more torque and stronger low-speed pulling power.
Towing remains a major strength of the F-150. The hybrid setup can pull up to 12,700 pounds, while the highest rating—13,500 pounds—comes from the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. The 5.0-liter V8 stays close behind at 13,000 pounds. Payload is solid as well, with a maximum of 2,455 pounds.
What Is the Fuel Efficiency of the 2025 F-150?
Fuel economy depends on which engine you choose. The 2.7-liter turbo V6 returns up to 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 lands at 17 mpg city and 25 highway. The hybrid slots between them, averaging around 22 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, depending on configuration.
Which Trim Fits Your Needs Best: The 2025 F-150 STX or XLT?
If you’re leaning toward value and want a truck that doesn’t feel bare-bones, the STX is a great truck. But if you want more perks, the XLT builds on that foundation with added features that most drivers end up appreciating over time. Taking both trims for a test drive is the easiest way to get a feel for the differences. Contact Jarret Ford in Charlotte County today!