The Ford F-150 remains one of the most popular pickup trucks on the market, with the Lariat trim offering a well-balanced blend of luxury and capability. As we compare the new Ford F-150 Lariat with its previous counterpart, we find a vehicle that builds on an already strong foundation with subtle refinements rather than dramatic changes.
Position in the F-150 Lineup
The Lariat trim sits in the middle of the F-150 lineup for both model years. It positions above the XL and XLT trims and below the premium King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trims. The Lariat continues to represent the entry point into the more luxurious side of the F-150 range, offering upscale features without the premium price of the highest trims.
Exterior Design Updates
Front Fascia and Lighting
Both F-150 Lariat models feature the distinctive design language introduced in the recent refresh:
- Bold front grille with horizontal slats specific to the Lariat trim
- Signature C-clamp LED headlights and daytime running lights
- Chrome accents balanced with body-colour elements
Ford maintains this successful design with minimal changes, ensuring brand recognition and design continuity.
Wheels and Tires
The older Lariat came standard with:
- 18-inch machined-aluminum wheels with magnetic-painted pockets
- Optional 20-inch wheel designs
The new model continues with similar offerings but introduces:
- Refreshed 20-inch wheel design options
- New finish choices for the aluminum wheels
Exterior Colors
The new F-150 Lariat offers a similar colour palette to the previous model, with a few adjustments:
- Continuation of popular colours like Agate, Black, Metallic, and Antimatter Blue
- Introduction of new specialty colours for the new model year
- Retirement of select colours
The exterior design differences between the two model years remain subtle, with Ford focusing on refinement rather than radical change for the still-fresh F-150.
Powertrain Options and Performance
Engine Choices
Both the F-150 Lariat models are available with multiple powertrain options:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine (standard)
- 5.0L V8 engine (optional)
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 (optional)
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (optional)
The new model continues with these proven powertrains without significant mechanical changes from the previous model.
Transmission
Both model years feature:
- 10-speed automatic transmission across all engine options
- Similar gear ratios and shift programming
- Electronic shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system (when equipped)
Towing and Hauling Capacity
The towing and hauling capabilities remain consistent between both model years:
- Maximum towing capacity of approximately 6,350 kg (when properly equipped)
- Maximum payload capacity of approximately 1,474 kg (varies by configuration)
- Available integrated trailer brake controller
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature
Interior Features and Technology
Infotainment System
Both model years feature the Ford SYNC system:
- 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Over-the-air update capability
- 8-speaker B&O sound system with HD radio
The latest model benefits from software refinements to the system introduced last year.
Digital Instrument Cluster
The digital instrument panel continues in the new model:
- 12-inch productivity screen
- Customizable information displays
- Enhanced graphics
- Improved visibility
Interior Materials and Design
The new F-150 Lariat builds on the interior improvements made in recent years:
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Refined woodgrain interior trim accents
- Ambient lighting
- Improved fit and finish throughout the cabin
Comfort and Convenience Features
Seating
Both model years offer similar seating configurations:
- 10-way power-adjustable driver and passenger seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Memory settings for the driver’s seat
- Optional leather rear seats with heating function
Storage Solutions
The latest model maintains the clever storage solutions from last year:
- Under-seat storage in the rear
- Large center console with folding work surface
- Door pocket storage bins
- Multiple tie-down points in the bed
Interior Workspace Features
The innovative workspace features continue this year:
- Interior Work Surface that folds out from the center console
- Power outlets throughout the cabin
- Tailgate work surface with integrated rulers and clamp pockets
Technology and Connectivity
Driver Assistance Systems
The Ford Co-Pilot360 technology suite is available on both model years, including:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
- BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane-Keeping System
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
- Rear View Camera
The new model includes refinements to these systems for more seamless operation.
Connectivity Features
Both model years offer:
- FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Remote vehicle monitoring and control through a smartphone
- USB-A and USB-C ports for device connectivity
- Wireless charging pad
Packages and Options
Lariat Sport Package
Available on both model years, offering:
- Unique appearance elements, including monochromatic exterior
- Sport-tuned suspension
- 20-inch wheels
- Special interior accents
Lariat Chrome Package
Both model years offer this package with:
- Chrome exterior accents
- Chrome exhaust tip
- Chrome tow hooks
- 20-inch chrome-like wheels
FX4 Off-Road Package
Available for both model years when equipped with 4×4:
- Off-road tuned shocks
- Electronic-locking rear differential
- Hill descent control
- Skid plates
- FX4 Off-Road decals
Fuel Efficiency
Both F-150 Lariat models offer similar fuel economy figures:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Approximately 12.0 L/100 km combined
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 14.0 L/100 km combined
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6: Approximately 9.8 L/100 km combined
Winter Readiness Features
Both model years come equipped with features suited for cold weather:
- Available heated steering wheel
- Remote start system
- Heated side mirrors
- Available windshield wiper de-icer
- Block heater availability
Bed and Cargo Management
Pro Power Onboard
The innovative mobile generator system continues for both model years:
- 2.0-kW system standard with PowerBoost hybrid
- 2.4-kW system optional with gas engines
- 7.2-kW system available with PowerBoost hybrid
BoxLink System
Both model years feature:
- Configurable tie-down points
- Integrated tailgate step
- Available power tailgate
- Stowable loading ramps compatibility
Technology Integration
Smartphone Integration
Both model years include:
- Wireless charging pad
- Multiple USB ports
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Voice Command Capabilities
The new model benefits from enhanced voice recognition over the previous model:
- More natural language understanding
- Expanded command capabilities
- Improved response accuracy
Optional Equipment Availability
Both model years offer similar optional equipment, including:
- 360-degree camera system
- Active park assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Evasive steering assist
- Twin-panel moonroof
Ford F-150: Refinement of Excellence
The new Ford F-150 Lariat represents a thoughtful continuation of the updates introduced in previous model years. With the F-150 having received significant updates recently, the latest model focuses on refinement rather than wholesale changes to an already successful formula.
Both model years deliver on the core F-150 promise: providing exceptional capability, comfort, and technology in a versatile full-size pickup package. The Lariat trim continues to offer an excellent balance of luxury and functionality, making it a popular choice for buyers who want upscale features without moving to the most premium trims in the lineup. The F-150 Lariat offers a compelling blend of work-ready capability and comfortable daily driving, helping make the F-150 a perennial bestseller in the pickup truck segment.
Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.