2025 Ford F-150 XL vs. STX: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been researching the 2025 Ford F-150, you’ve probably come across two common options: the XL and the STX. Both are entry points into the F-150 lineup, but they serve different types of buyers. The XL is known as the reliable workhorse—it’s no-frills, dependable, and priced right. Meanwhile, the STX adds a touch of style, upgraded tech, and a sportier presence, all without climbing too far up the price ladder.
So how do you know which one is right for you? Whether you're building a fleet or shopping for your first truck, here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the 2025 F-150 XL and STX to help you make the best decision.
The F-150 XL: Built for Work, Priced for Value
The XL is the most affordable way to get behind the wheel of a 2025 F-150, and that’s a big part of its appeal. It’s built for function—ideal for contractors, fleets, or anyone who needs a tough, reliable truck without distractions.
The interior is clean and practical. You’ll typically find vinyl flooring, durable cloth seats, and physical controls that are easy to reach and use while on the job. The standard 8-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto still keeps you connected, but the focus here is utility.
You’ll notice the exterior is rugged and minimalist: black bumpers, a black grille, steel wheels, and basic trim all signal that this truck means business. It’s available in all three cab configurations—Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew—so it’s as flexible as you need it to be.
If your priority is getting the most truck for the money, this is where you start.
The STX: Same Power, More Personality
Here’s where things get interesting. The STX isn’t technically a separate trim—it’s an appearance package that transforms the XL into something that looks and feels much more upscale.
Available only on SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations, the STX package upgrades the F-150 inside and out. Instead of black bumpers and a basic grille, you get body-color bumpers, a stylish grille, and 20-inch alloy wheels that completely change the look of the truck. It goes from utilitarian to attention-grabbing.
Inside, the STX adds premium cloth sport seats, a console-mounted shifter, and—best of all—a standard 12-inch touchscreen. This larger screen alone makes a huge difference in the daily driving experience. It feels more modern, easier to use, and far more impressive to show off.
You can also opt for the STX Black Appearance Package, which adds black wheels, darkened grille accents, and black STX badging for an even bolder look.
So who’s the STX for? It’s perfect if you want a capable truck that you can drive every day, but with enough visual punch and tech to make it feel special. It offers great value, especially if you're not quite ready to move up to the XLT or Lariat trims but still want something fun and stylish.
Performance: No Compromise Either Way
Here’s the good news—both the XL and STX share the same powertrain options. Whether you go with the base model or the more styled-out STX, you’re getting the same performance and capability underneath.
Engine options include:
A standard 3.3L V6 producing 290 horsepower
Optional 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque
Available 5.0L V8 or 3.5L EcoBoost V6 for those who want more towing power
Every 2025 F-150 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and both trims are available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations.
That means you’re not giving up power or capability by going with either option—you’re simply deciding how you want your truck to look and feel.
Which One Should You Choose?
If your truck is primarily for job site use, basic hauling, or budget-conscious fleet needs, the XL is going to do exactly what you need—and save you money doing it.
But if you want a truck that turns heads at the gas station, has a nicer interior for your daily commute, and offers more comfort and tech without a major price jump, the STX is the way to go.
Test Drive Both at Planet Ford Dallas
We’ve got both XL and STX models in stock at Planet Ford Dallas, and I’d be happy to walk you through each one in person. It’s one thing to read about them—but once you sit in the driver’s seat and see the features up close, you’ll know exactly which one fits your lifestyle.
Text or call me directly at (817) 876-3390 to schedule your visit.
Or check out current inventory at planetforddallas.com.
Looking forward to helping you find the right F-150.
– Gustavo Ramos
Planet Ford Dallas Love Field
