Introduction
From its exceptional capability to the power and performance of one of America's best-selling trucks, the Ford F-150 has built a long-standing reputation as a reliable workhorse and everyday truck that helps you finish every job on time. The Ford F-150 returns this year with eight models to choose from, making your decision more challenging than navigating any terrain.
The sporty 2026 Ford F-150 STX and the practical XLT both deliver the power and reliability the F-150 is known for, but they offer different designs, interiors, and conveniences. Whether you want all-weather, any-terrain capability with signature sporty designs or more versatile functionality, comfort, and convenience for everyday driving and work tasks, this comparison highlights what matters most to help you decide which F-150 is the best fit: the 2026 Ford F-150 STX or XLT. Keep reading to learn more.
Key Takeaways
- Style and design differences, along with upgrades, distinguish the sporty 2026 Ford F-150 STX from the more elevated yet practical XLT.
- The 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT both feature the same standard 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine.
- Upgrade the 2026 Ford F-150 STX with LED fog lamps and cornering lights, along with other impressive features and technology.
One key difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT is styling. From the exterior design accents to the available F-150 Lobo Package, the 2026 Ford F-150 STX has a sporty, street-inspired look. With the available STX FX4 package, sport cloth seats, dark gray grille, and optional LED fog and cornering lamps, the Ford F-150 STX is capable and edgy, making a striking impression with its eye-catching accents.
The F-150 XLT, the model above the STX, elevates the appearance and practicality with chrome accents, extended 6-inch black running boards, and the available Pro Power Onboard with power solutions. The Ford F-150 STX includes more standard features than the XLT, including LED fog and cornering lamps, which are optional on the XLT.
Do the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT have the same engine options?
Both the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT are equipped with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, which produces 325 horsepower. Both the F-150 STX and XLT can be upgraded to 4x4, but engine options differ. The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT also offers two fuel tank sizes, either 30 gallons or 30.6 gallons, which isn't available for the STX model.
2026 Ford F-150 STX Engines:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8
2026 Ford F-150 XLT Engines:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V8
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6
Which 2026 Ford F-150 should I choose, the STX or the XLT?
The 2026 Ford F-150 full-size truck lineup is a top choice with drivers like you and the experts at J.D. Power. Highly rated for quality and reliability, the 2026 F-150 continues Ford's reputation for manufacturing reliable trucks with a range of models that vary in style, performance, and power.
The 2026 Ford F-150 STX is the perfect sporty full-size truck with a bold, street-inspired design that you can enhance with the Lobo Package. From the power of the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine and drivetrain options and axle upgrades, to the comfort and convenience of the interior with the optional Console Work Surface and 12-inch touchscreen, the 2026 Ford F-150 STX is built to be elevated, upgraded, and edgy.
The 2026 Ford F-150 XLT offers more standard features and advanced safety technology, including signature bumper-to-bumper LED lighting, multiple fuel tank size options, more engine choices, and additional Pro Power Onboard power configurations. The interior of the XLT delivers comfort, premium materials, and more standard and optional features for greater convenience compared to the base XL model, and some options are only available on the STX.
With the F-150 XLT, you can add extended running boards, manual telescoping side mirrors for trailer towing, LED box lighting, remote tailgate release, and the convenient tailgate work surface, along with other features.
The Ford F-150 For You
Whether you're looking for a sporty design with signature style and power or prefer practical comfort with elevated convenience and performance, there's a 2026 Ford F-150 ready for the challenge. Visit Jarrett-Gordon Ford today to see the new 2026 Ford F-150 in our Davenport showroom, or shop our in-stock and pre-order inventory of new and used vehicles online. Find the perfect Ford for you today at Jarrett-Gordon Ford in Davenport.