Both these trucks are at the peak of Ford's engineering. While very similar in their own rights, they have differences in design and functionality that will be important for the driver looking for the right ride. Both the XLT and the Lariat are above the base XL model in Ford's F-150 set of trucks. Therefore, both come with some cool features right off the bat, but which of these are important to you?
2017 Ford F-150 XLT vs Lariat
On-Screen Data
At the outset, the Lariat model comes standard with the spacious 8-inch productivity screen found next to the gauges and tachometers. This option is unavailable in the XLT which comes only with a 2.3 inch screen.
This seemingly small detail makes a big difference when viewing your truck's data at-a-glance. The productivity screen will display vital information such as towing data, trip info, and any other information you deem necessary with the helpful MyView customization option.
Visibility Aids
Along with vital truck data, the Lariat has an optional 360-degree camera with split-view display. This option, not available in the XLT model, assists the driver in viewing a full and comprehensive view of their surroundings to maximize visibility and decrease accident risk.
On the same token, there is a dynamic hitch assist system which allows the driver to see a sight-line assisted rear-view of the hitch ball and guide it into the trailer. This feature is optional in the XLT and is a smart decision for anyone looking to attach a trailer or boat.
Interior Conveniences
Sync 3 also comes standard with the Ford F-150 Lariat and while the XLT has this as an optional installation, its standard setting is the original Sync system. The immediate differences you'll find in the newer system are namely: speed, easier to navigate interface, better voice control technology, and AppLink.
This last feature allows one to connect their vehicle with specific apps such as Spotify and AccuWeather all from your car's interface screen. For a last bit of ingenuity, the Lariat comes standard with heated and cooled front seats for an added dimension of comfort to your ride.
Exterior Options
Moving to the outside, we see that the XLT comes with an optional LED bed-lighting option while this is standard in the Lariat model. This makes working in any dark setting a must-have option.
For convenience, the Lariat comes standard with intelligent push-button start and it has the option of adding a remote tail-gate release, while both of these options are unavailable in the XLT. Additionally, the Lariat has heated side mirrors to prevent fogging and even allows power folding for those tight spaces. These heated mirrors are available optionally with the XLT, but the power-folding mirrors are unavailable with this model.
Learn More about the Ford F-150
As you can see, both trucks are powerful and affordable options for anyone in the market. There are definitely a variety of features that come with the Lariat that would be extra on the XLT or are not available at all. In the end, it comes down to personal preference and what one is looking for out of these two great truck options.