Ford F-150 Models, Trim Levels, And Body Styles [Detailed Guide]

Trucks are useful, sexy, and manly as hell! Whatever your reason for purchasing a truck, you always wonder which manufacturer and model to choose. The Ford F-150 is a tried and true, American classic with so many options you simply cannot go wrong! We’ve researched Ford’s 2020 F-150 trim levels to give you all the details on this popular truck. 

Ford offers seven different trim levels for the 2020 F-150:

  • XL
  • XLT
  • Lariat
  • King Ranch
  • Platinum
  • Limited
  • Raptor

The F-150 is one of the most versatile trucks available, and there is a lot to unpack within each trim level. Keep reading, and we’ll unload the options of each trim level to show you how to customize the F-150 to match the style and performance you want from a truck.

Blue Ford F-150 pickup truck at a dealership, Ford F-150 Models, Trim Levels, And Body Styles [Detailed Guide]

An Overview Of F-150 Trim Models

Ordered from XL through Raptor, Ford’s trim packages upgrade to make the F-150’s appearance and features more luxurious as you increase in trim level. Each trim level, however, is highly customizable for engine, drivetrain, and comfort features. Let’s take a closer look at each, distinct trim:

2020 F-150 XL

The XL trim level is basic, and comes stock with a 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 engine, 290 horsepower, and 265 lb.- ft. of torque. XL is the most cost-efficient trim option because at the lowest price you get a very dependable Ford truck to last many years. 

With more plastic on its exterior compared to higher trims, XL might be the trim for you if you’re looking for a truck to use as a tool, rather than a toy. 

White pickup truck Ford F-150 in the city street

The Ford F-150 XL comes standard with a few notable convenience and safety features:

  • Rear view camera with dynamic hitch assist
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (scans the road ahead and automatically applies the brakes if needed to avoid collision)
  • Automatic High Beams (no more accidentally blinding oncoming traffic) 

Optional features on XL trim include:

  • FordPass Connect with WiFi HotSpot
  • SiriusXM Satellite Radio

Ford’s F-150 XL starts at $28,745.

2020 F-150 XLT

A simple, side-by-side comparison demonstrates that XLT and XL are almost identical spec-wise. Performance options (engine sizes, eco boost availability, drivetrain options, horsepower, etc.) are the same. You need to know that XLT has been upgraded in convenience and comforts, so it looks and feels more luxurious than base model XL. For example, XLT comes standard with electric locks versus XL’s manual locks.

The use of chrome instead of plastic for the grille, bumpers, wheels, and color accents is the most noticeable exterior upgrade on XLT. 

Interior comforts are also designed to simply be more luxurious. Opt for lumbar support, heated seats, different outlets available, and more. Ford’s Co-Pilot Technology, available on XLT, adds driver support such as blind spot detection and controlled hill descent. 

Ford’s F-150 XLT starts at $34,760.

F-150 Cab And Truck Bed Combinations

Before we continue, just as a quick point of order. Choose different cab and bed length options, depending on trim level.

Ford’s 2020 F-150 comes in three different cab styles: Regular (2-door, seats 3 passengers), SuperCab (2-door, seats 5-6 passengers), and SuperCrew (4-door, seats 5-6 passengers). 

Choose from three, truck bed length options on the 2020 F-150: 5.5 ft., 6.5 ft., and 8 ft. 

Each trim level is available in various (but not all) bed/cab combinations. To make things easier, we’ve created a simple chart that shows the combinations available for trim levels that have several combo options.

XL and XLT trim levels are available with the following bed/cab combinations: 

F-150XL/ XLT Regular Super Cab Super Crew
5-½’     x
6-½’ x x x
8’ x x  

 

  • X indicates the combination is available.

2020 F-150 Lariat

2020 Ford F-150 pickup truck at a dealership

Lariat trim is kicks up the level of luxury, but we’ll start with the specs. Ford’s F-150 Lariat comes stock with a 2.7 EcoBoost V6 engine, capable of 325 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque.  

Now, venture inside Lariat for the most noticeable comfort upgrades; interior leather seats and wood grain trim accents. Standard, 8” touchscreen display on Lariat is twice as large compared to XL and XLT available touchscreens (2.3” or 4.2”). 

Other optional features on Lariat include Ford’s Co-Pilot 360, with adaptive cruise control. This driver assist feature adjusts to the traffic in front of you, and can even come to a complete stop in traffic. Co-Pilot 360 additional options include rain sensing wipers and voice activated navigation. 

Ford’s F-150 Lariat starts at $42,750.

Lariat is available with the following bed/cab combinations:

F-150 Lariat Regular Super Cab Super Crew
5-½’     x
6-½’   x x
8’   x  

 

  • X indicates the combination is available.

2020 F-150 King Ranch & Platinum

King Ranch and Platinum trims are essentially the same truck, just dressed up differently. Both trucks sport a 5.0L Ti-VCT V8 engine with 395 horsepower and 400lb.-ft of torque.

King Ranch puts a country/western spin on the Lariat trim level’s design in terms of style by upgrading the interior with two-tone leather seating, and the exterior with chrome elements. The King Ranch badge throughout lets everyone know you’ve got a high-end, Ford truck.

The F-150 King Ranch is designed as a high-end, country truck, whereas the F150 Platinum is the urban counterpart. Platinum’s exterior is designed to look sleek on city streets with more chrome and wood grain trim accents. Choosing between Platinum and King Ranch trim levels really comeS down to your personal preferences for truck’s appearance. 

You might find it useful to know that Ford’s Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum trim levels provide the same safety, comfort, convenience, and Co-Pilot 360 options. But, opting for the 5.0L V8 on Lariat (standard on King Ranch and Platinum) means you pay about $3,000 to $5000 less for your truck depending on bed/cab combo. You also have more cab and bed combos with the Lariat if that is important to you. If you choose King Ranch or Platinum trims, you mostly pay for a specific look. 

Obviously, there is nothing wrong with paying a little extra for a truck to look the way you prefer. After all, your truck is one of the larger investments you typically make. But, more practically minded owners might prefer to save the cash by upgrading other options on lower trim levels. 

Despite similarities, King Ranch starts at $52,990 while Platinum starts at $55,520.

Both King Ranch and Platinum trim levels are available exclusively in King CrewCab style, with either 5.5 ft. or 6.5ft. bed length. 

2020 F-150 Limited

Ford’s F-150 Limited trim level is the big daddy of them all, with a high output 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine, an awesome 450 horsepower, and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. This is the same engine used for F-150 Raptor (which we’ll discuss here in a moment). Although you probably wouldn’t want to take such a sleek truck like the F150 limited off roading, you could because the engine is designed for off-road use.

Every available convenience, comfort, and safety option available for other trim models comes standard on Limited. Ford’s F-150 Limited is top of the line in every department. 

Ford’s F-150 Limited starts at $67,735, and is available exclusively in SuperCrew cab with a 5.5 ft. bed. 

2020 F-150 Raptor

2020 Ford F-150 Raptor pickup truck at a Ford dealership

Referred to simply as, The Ford Raptor, this F-150 trim level is ovten overlooked as being part of the F-Series family. Ford’s F-150 Raptor features the same engine as Limited, a 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine capable of 450 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque. Otherwise, Raptor trim could not be more unique.

Right off the bat, the look of the F-150 Raptor makes a statement; most noticeably, the unique grille featuring “FORD” in big block letters. You’ll also appreciate the wider track with flared, front and rear fenders. 

Designed for the off-road adventurer, Raptor is equipped with the FOX brand Live Valve Racing Shox. On top of the suspension, Raptor has six pre-set driving systems not found on other F-150 trims. Pre-set driving systems are designed to assist various conditions and terrain, specifically:

  • Normal
  • Sport
  • Slippery
  • Tow/Haul
  • Deep Snow/Sand
  • Baja
  • Rock Crawl

For off-road conditions, Raptor’s Trail Control feature uses a cruise control system for both rugged and off-road conditions. Trail Control handles the braking and acceleration of each individual wheel to successfully navigate uneven terrain. 

Ford’s Raptor starts at $43,455, and is available in either SuperCab or SuperCrew with a 5-½’ bed. 

What Is The XLT Trim Level?

The XLT trim level is the trim that is one level up from the basic XL model. The XLT will feature more chrome on the exterior and more comfort luxury features inside than the base model. The XLT will still be a great "truck for your buck" but come standard will more of the features you're likely to enjoy as a consumer (power/remote locks, etc.)

What Is The Difference Between XL, XLT, and Lariat?

Lariat trim comes with a different stock engine (2.7L EcoBoost V6) than  XL and XLT trims (3.3L Ti-VCT V6). Lariat is the most high-end of these three trim levels. As you advance through XL, XLT, and Lariat you get more comfort options, and a high-end appearance. 

Which F-150 Model Is The Best?

The F-150 Limited is the most advanced trim level, because it comes stock with every option available to lower trims.

Get the most “truck for your buck” selecting between XL or XLT trim levels, because you get a quality Ford without the frills.

For off-roading, Raptor is the best trim option on the F-150.

Is Lariat Or Platinum Better?

Platinum trim is considered higher-end compared to Lariat trim, because it comes stock with a V8 engine instead of a V6. However, except for the engine, every stock feature and available options on Platinum are also available on Lariat. 

What Does The Lariat Package Include?

Lariat’s package includes a 2.7L EcoBoost V6, chrome exterior, and LED lights. Several comfort options are standard such as Lane Keeping System, Automatic Emergency Braking, Wifi, XM Radio, and voice activated technology. 

What Is The Ford F-150 Sport Package?

Ford’s Sport Package or Sports Appearance Package is an available option on the F-150 to give your truck sportier appearance. It is available for the XL, XLT, and Lariat trim levels. Exterior, Sport features include:

  • Body color
  • Bumpers
  • Black mesh surround grille
  • Chrome tip exhaust

The F- Series

There you have it. Without a doubt you’ll love your F-Series, F-150 truck whichever trim level you choose. The F-Series is the most commonly sold vehicle in America because Ford’s long-time expertise in the automotive industry has figured out how to do truck’s right! 

Now you know F-150 trim levels and bed/cab combinations, so you can pick the right trim for you. Interested in even more Ford trucks? Check out our blog, “6 Types Of Ford Trucks [The Ultimate Guide To Ford Pick-Ups].”

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