From sporty styling to chrome upgrades, Jarrett Ford compares the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT, highlighting performance, style, and comfort for drivers in Dade City. Whether you prefer the bold, athletic look of the Ford F-150 STX or the refined, feature-packed appeal of the XLT, both models deliver the power and capability Dade City truck owners rely on every day.
This side-by-side breakdown helps you choose the new 2026 Ford F-150 trim that's best for work, play, and everyday use.
Key Takeaways:
- The 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT are two models in the lineup that build on the base model XL's features but offer different upgrades and options.
- The 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT feature upgrades and safety technology, including the Co-Pilot360 2.0 and Assist 2.0.
- When properly equipped, the 2026 Ford STX or XLT with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine can tow up to 13,500 pounds.
What's the difference between the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT?
Two of the eight available 2026 Ford F-150 models are the sporty STX and the upgraded XLT, each offering unique style, convenience, and ways to enhance your everyday drive. The F-150 STX sits just above the base model XL, and the XLT sits above the STX, upgraded for more functionality, plenty of power, and the comfort and convenience you want from a truck you drive everywhere, from work to running errands, ranked among the best by J.D. Power.
Although the 2026 Ford F-150 XLT offers more options, upgrades, and standard features, the F-150 STX still impresses with a signature sporty style, LED lighting from bumper to bumper, and an available 400W outlet. It does not include the Pro Power Onboard option available on the XLT, which turns your truck into a power source.
Which upgraded features are available on the 2026 Ford F-150 STX compared with the XLT?
Since the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT build on the features of the base model XL, they come equipped with incredible signature Ford features and technology, including Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0, a combination rated for reliability and safety, including a 5/5 Star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). One upgrade available for the XLT but not the STX is the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 safety technology upgrade.
Several upgrades are available for the Ford F-150 STX, including the Ford Connectivity Package and Drive Modes (Normal, ECO, Sport, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Deep Snow/Sand), which are available upgrades for the XLT.
Available Options
| 2026 Ford F-150 STX Options |
2026 Ford F-150 XLT Options |
| Argent Rear Bumper |
Chrome Bumper |
| LED Fog Lamps |
LED Box Lighting |
| Aluminum Crossbed Storage Toolbox by Weather Guard |
Bed Storage Boxes |
| 12-inch Digital Dashboard |
Flow-Through Center Console with Column Shifter |
| Console Work Surface |
Console Work Surface |
Among these upgrades for both the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT are other optional features, including trailering technology, Adaptive Cruise Control, and more.
Does the 2026 Ford F-150 STX have the same engine and towing power as the XLT?
Both the 2026 Ford F-150 STX and XLT come standard with the same 2.7L EcoBoost V6, which has a GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) of 12,300 pounds. One of the available engine options for both is the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. When paired with the Tow/Haul Package and the optional Max Tow Axle on a properly equipped 2026 Ford F-150 STX or XLT, it provides a maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds. The F-150 XLT offers more engine options than the STX, including a full hybrid V6.
Powertrain Comparison
| 2026 Ford F-150 STX |
2026 Ford F-150 XLT |
| Standard engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft) |
Standard engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft) |
| Optional engine: 5.0L V8 (400 hp, 410 lb-ft) |
Optional engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (382 hp, 500 lb-ft) Optional engine: 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 (420 hp, 570 lb-ft) |
| Transmission: Electronic 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission |
Transmission: Electronic 10-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission |
| Standard Drivetrain: 4x2 |
Standard Drivetrain: 4x2 |
| Optional Drivetrain: 4x4 |
Optional Drivetrain: 4x4 |
What is so Special about the 2026 Ford F-150 STX?
Models like the 2026 Ford F-150 STX deliver on style, functionality, performance, and power under the hood. With a comfortable interior and plenty of work surfaces inside and out, your new F-150 is everything on the road and in between. Head to Jarrett Ford in Dade City to check out new Ford F-150 full-size trucks and the area's best selection of new and used vehicles.