Ford trucks come in various trim levels, and one of the most popular trim packages is the XLT. Although many believe XLT is a shortening for “extra long truck”, that is not the case.
It can be hard to keep track of the many various trim levels that Ford assigns to their vehicles, and it can very often be confusing.
But what does XLT mean on a Ford truck? And what are the features that come with it? Here’s what you need to know.
What Does XLT Mean on a Ford Truck?
XLT on a Ford truck is a trim level. XLT a shortening for “extra luxurious truck”. XLT on Ford trucks has been around since the early 1970s and used to be Ford’s most luxurious trim level. By 1973 the popular Ford F-100 was released with XLT trim level, separating the XLT from XL models.
In 1973 when the Ford F-100 was released by the Ford manufacturer there already was a vehicle with the XLT packade, the Ford Ranger.
Ford Ranger’s from the early 1970s was well known for it’s XLT trim level.
What Does the XLT Package Include?
The XLT package is one of the most popular packages available on Ford trucks. It includes a chrome grille, upgraded interior trim, and special badging features. As of 2020, the Ford XLT offers a great selection of performance. On the new Ford XLT models, you can get a 3.0 Liter Powerstroke V6 Diesel Engine.
What Ford Trucks Offer XLT Trim Level?
The XLT trim options are available on all of Ford’s F-series trucks. This includes the F150, F250, F350, and F450. The XLT trim package is also available on Ford Explorers, Ford Expeditions, and Ford Rangers.
Is XLT More Expensive than the XL?
The XLT package has a higher price tag of over $6,000 compared to the XL package. This might seem like a lot of money, but it’s worth it when buying a new Ford truck.
XL vs. XLT
After explaining what XLT means, you might wonder about the differences between the XLT and the XL package. Here’s a short breakdown between the XL and the XLT:
Performance
There are significant performance differences when choosing between the Ford F-150 XL and XLT.
The XLT offers a more powerful engine option, the 3.0L Power StrokeⓇ Turbo Diesel V6, which is not an option on the XL.
If you’re looking for a pickup truck with more performance options, the XLT is the better choice.
Interior
The XL has black vinyl flooring, while the XLT has color-coordinated carpeted mats.
AM/FM stereo is standard with the XL, and SYNC 3Ⓡ will be the XLT’s standard entertainment system.
This will be a big step up from the XL’s AM/FM stereo. If you’re looking for a luxurious truck, XLT is the way to go.
XLT also comes with cruise control by default.
XLT also has MyKeyⓇ to help parents restrict their vehicle when their teenage drivers use the car by default.
But what is MyKeyⓇ, you might ask.
MyKeyⓇ is the newest innovation in driving. MykeyⓇ allows you to program keys with different modes, such as “Good Driver Mode” and “Safe Driving mode”. You can set how long these restrictions last and what they limit, like seatbelt requirement, maximum radio volume, top speed, and RPMs (revolutions per minute).
Cruise Control and MyKeyⓇ is an add-on option for the XL models, while it’s standard on the XLT models.
Exterior
The Ford XL trim level offers black rear and front bumpers, while the XLT offers chrome bumper’s front and rear.
On the XLT, you will get the luxurious two-bar chrome grille with chrome nostrils, black background mesh, and black surround, while the XL model offers a black two-bar grille with the same colored nostrils.
The tailgate on the two variants also has some differences. The XLT includes a power lock tailgate, while the XL offers a key lock tailgate.
The XL offers silver-painted steel wheels, and the XLT comes with silver-painted aluminum wheels. Both of these trim levels come with 17-inch wheels.
As far as the lights go, the XLT has halogen fog lights in the front and power-glass side-view mirrors.
The XLT also has front passenger and driver seat manual lumbar controls for better seat adjustments.
