What XLT stands for Ford is a common question people ask us. Well, XLT or Extra Luxurious Truck is a trim level that the American automaker Ford offers on its various trucks. When Ford introduced it around 50 years back, it was the top-of-the-line model for the Ranger. Later in 1973, the company introduced the XLT for the F-100 truck as an upper spec model.
Presently, Ford offers the XLT for all F-series models, including the F-150 (f150 pcm problems), F-250, F-350, and F-450, as well as the Ranger, Explorer, and Expedition. The XLT sits right below the entry-level XL in Ford’s lineup.
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What does XLT stand for Ford – A Comparison of XL and XLT
Whichever truck you choose from Ford, the XLT usually stands in second place in the range. Even it is the second trim level in the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning range after Pro, featuring gray ion satin metallic grille, extended running boards, a 360-degree camera, extended range battery, and Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0.
Ford XL vs XLT
Now that you know what XLT stands for Ford, let’s compare it with the base XL variant to see the difference between the two. It would also help you pick the Ford truck suiting your lifestyle.
For comparison purposes, we will measure up the Ford F-150 XL with Ford F-150 XLT. Bear in mind, that the specifications of the XL and XLT vary for different Ford trucks. We have picked the F-150 because it is one of the most famous trucks in the world.
Similarities
Performance
Both the new F-150 XL and XLT variants come equipped with a 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 engine generating 290 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. The engine mates to a six-speed automatic transmission offering three drive modes: normal, tow/haul, and sport to adjust to different conditions.
Interior
When it comes to interior comfort and convenience, both the XL and XLT are pretty capable. A few of the interior facilities include:
- 2.3-inch productivity screen
- Fade-to-off lighting
- Black urethane steering wheel
- Single-zone manual air conditioning
- FordPass Connect™ with Wi-Fi hotspot
Exterior
Just like the interior, the exterior styling doesn’t differ much. Both the models look sleek and rugged. The exterior matches are:
- Daytime running lights
- Incorporated cargo light with center high-mounted stop lamp
- Halogen headlamps
- Black bezel with black door and tailgate handles
- Rear underframe spare tire carrier
Differences
Now that we have covered the similarities of XL and XLT let’s discuss some differentiating factors. The comparison will enable you to select the right truck for your needs.
Performance
Performance plays the most crucial role in our buying decision when we buy a pickup truck. As mentioned before, both the Ford F-150 XL and XLT have the same standard gasoline engine. However, the XLT offers an optional mill as well.
- The 3.0L Power StrokeⓇ , Turbo-Diesel V6, is available for the XLT, but you cannot order it for the XL.
- The standard wheel option for the XL is 17-inch silver steel, while the XLT offers 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels.
- The third difference is the number of additional wheel options for the two: XL’s four vs XLT’s six.
Interior
Being the higher-level trim, the XLT comes with extra goodies. Here are some of the differences between the two variants.
- For the floor, the XL comes with a Black vinyl floor covering, whereas the XLT has color-coordinated carpeted floor mats.
- The XLT offers standard Cruise control and MyKey, but you have to pay extra for the XL to get these features.
- SYNC 3 performs the entertainment duties for the XLT, while you get only an AM/FM stereo on the XL.
Exterior
Both the trucks have some key styling differences that help buyers distinguish between the two. Below you will find the main exterior variations between the F-150 XL and XLT.
- While the base XL features black bumpers on the front and rear, the XLT comes with chrome bumpers.
- As with the bumpers, the same design difference continues for the grille. Expect the XL to have a black two-bar design grille with black nostrils and a chrome two-bar grille with chrome nostrils, black surround, and black background mesh for the XLT.
- Another change for the XL is a key lock tailgate against the XLT’s power lock tailgate.
Appearance Packages
If you are on a budget, then obviously, the 2021 F-150 XL with a $28,940 price tag is a better option than the $35,050 XLT. However, you can still adorn your XL to step up its appearance. Ford offers two appearance packages for the base trim, namely the Chrome and Sport.
- XL Chrome Appearance Package adds 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels, body-color front fascia, chrome bumpers, and halogen fog lamps.
- XL Sport Appearance Package adds 17-inch silver-painted aluminum wheels, body-color front fascia, body-color bumpers, halogen fog lamps, and “SPORT” box-side decal.
Bottom Line
We hope now you know what XLT stands for Ford. It is simply a trim level that the automaker offers for its various pickup trucks and SUVs. Mostly, it slots right below the entry-level XL in the range and comes with extra features that make it more desirable for buyers. However, be ready to pay extra bucks for the added facilities.
For your understanding, we have compared the XL and XLT variants of the Ford F-150. It would give you an idea of what XLT stands for Ford in its lineup. Whatever truck or SUV you choose from Ford, has stood the test of time. You should pick the one that goes well with your budget and the lifestyle.
