The Ford F-150 has been the go-to pickup truck for Americans looking for serious performance and reliability. From hauling gear for work to towing a camper for weekend trips, the F-150’s range of trim levels has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll break down how each F-150 trim level compares in terms of engine options, towing and payload capacity, and available packages. Continue reading to find the setup that best fits your needs as you shop for your next truck.
What’s the Difference Between Towing vs. Payload?
Before comparing trims, it helps to understand the difference between towing capacity and payload capacity:
- Towing Capacity is how much weight your F-150 can pull behind it – like a trailer, boat, or another vehicle.
- Payload Capacity is the total weight you can load into the truck itself, including passengers, tools, and cargo in the bed.
Knowing how you plan to use your truck helps you decide which spec matters more.
F-150 Towing and Payload by Trim
Ford offers a range of trims with different engine options and packages, which affect your vehicle’s performance. Here's a general overview based on the available 2025 F-150 trims:
F-150 XL
Great for light-duty work, small trailers, or everyday hauling.
- Engine Options: 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6, properly equipped)
- Max Payload: Up to 2,440 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6, Regular Cab, 8-ft box, 4x2)
F-150 STX
A stylish, value-focused trim with more features than the XL, suitable for work or play.
- Engine Options: 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6, properly equipped)
- Max Payload: Up to 2,445 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6, Regular Cab, 8-ft box, 4x2)
F-150 XLT
A strong mid-range option with more tech and engine flexibility.
- Engine Options: 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6, properly equipped)
- Max Payload: Up to 2,440 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6)
F-150 Lariat
A balance of performance and comfort for heavier jobs.
- Engine Options: 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6)
- Max Payload: Up to 2,440 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6)
F-150 Tremor
Off-road focused, but still capable for work.
- Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs
- Max Payload: Up to 1,885 lbs
F-150 King Ranch / Platinum
Best for buyers who need muscle and luxury in one.
- Engine Options: 5.0L V8, 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid, 3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Max Towing: Up to 13,500 lbs (with 3.5L EcoBoost V6)
- Max Payload: Up to 2,225 lbs (with 5.0L V8)
F-150 Raptor
Built for off-road adventures more than heavy towing.
- Engine: High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6
- Max Towing: 8,200 lbs
- Max Payload: 1,400 lbs
Note: Actual F-150 towing and payload capacities vary based on cab size, bed length, drivetrain, and installed options. Contact our team for guidance on specific engine and package combinations.
Which Trim Matches Your Needs?
Choosing the right trim depends on how you plan to use your truck:
- Occasional Towing or Want a More Stylish Work Truck? Go with the F-150 XL or STX. Both are cost-effective and still offer solid capability.
- Need a Mid-Range Option With More Tech and Comfort? Choose the F-150 XLT. It blends solid performance with upgraded features and engine options.
- Hauling Heavy Loads and Want Extra Comfort? Consider the F-150 Lariat. It offers the same strength as the XLT, with a more refined interior and added tech.
- Off-Road on the Weekend, Work During the Week? Try the F-150 Tremor. It’s off-road capable but still practical enough for jobsite duties.
- Want Power and Premium Features in One Package? Check out the F-150 King Ranch or Platinum. These trims combine high capability with upscale comfort.
- Mainly Hitting the Trails? Pick the F-150 Raptor. It’s built for off-road adventure, and with the Raptor R package, you get a 5.2L supercharged V8 and even more performance upgrades.
Helpful Tools & Packages for Your F-150
To get the most out of your F-150, you can also consider add-ons such as:
- Max Trailer Tow Package – Boosts towing capacity with an upgraded rear axle, improved cooling, and trailer brake controller.
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ – Lets you easily reverse with a trailer using a dash-mounted knob.
- Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™ – Automatically steers, accelerates, and brakes to help align the truck and trailer for hitching.
- Trailer Reverse Guidance – Provides visual cues and alerts on the infotainment screen to help you back up with a trailer.
- Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch – Displays real-time payload weight to help prevent overloading.
- Integrated Trailer Brake Controller – Adds braking control for heavy loads; available as a standalone option or with towing packages.
- Smart Trailer Tow Connector – Monitors trailer connection status, including brake lights and turn signals, and alerts you to issues.
- BLIS® with Trailer Tow Coverage – Blind spot monitoring that extends coverage to your trailer.
- FX4 Off-Road Package – Adds off-road-tuned shocks, skid plates, hill descent control, and more for better off-road capability.
Availability varies by trim and engine, so be sure to check for compatibility with your chosen model.