Ford Super Duty XLT vs Lariat: Which Is the Better Trim Option?
Is the Super Duty Lariat worth the extra cost over the XLT, or are its extra features worth every penny?
In the old days, choosing between the Super Duty XLT and Lariat was easy. The XLT was essentially just a nicer, chrome-laden version of the workman’s XL. The Super Duty Lariat, on the other hand, was marketed as more of an upscale version with leather and lots of added luxury features. Today, the gap between these two trim levels, including the price difference, has narrowed. Many of the features of both are the same. So you can’t blame Ford Truck Enthusiasts member Supadoodie for wondering if he would have any regrets buying an XLT instead of a Lariat.
“Are there any XLT owners that wish they had sprung for the Lariat? The main reason I’ve been looking at the Lariat is for the leather. Does anyone regret going with the fabric seats?”
For edjunior, there’s really only one reason he regrets not getting the Lariat.
“I like the leather, but my wife hates it. And you know, if momma ain’t happy, nobody’s happy. But I also actually don’t mind the cloth seats. The only thing I wish I had was the dual zone climate control. That is really the thing from the Lariat I miss the most. Otherwise, I’m perfectly happy with my XLT.”
That seems to be the case with WEHRING as well.
“Same here. Very happy with the XLT. I only miss the LED headlights, but got everything else I was wanting when I ordered it. Even got the bench seat that is not an option on Lariat.”
Interestingly enough, skyak also points out an uncommon reason why the OP might want to consider the Super Duty XLT.
“If you are an audiophile, the XLT truck is actually a better option because it is possible to install a proper stereo and maintain all the connectivity with the truck.”
Of course, not everyone feels that way. Flyct has a couple of valid reasons for stepping up to the Lariat.
“I have a Lariat with the Ultimate package. The Lariat leather was not the reason I selected it over an XLT. I actually prefer cloth seats as they’re more comfortable in Florida. BUT I hated the XLT A/C vs the automatic A/C in the Lariat. Combine that with available LED headlights, BLIS, and adaptive cruise, and I went with a Lariat the last two times.”
The same goes for Coghlin, who doesn’t regret buying a Lariat one bit.
“I ordered a fairly basic Lariat 2019 F-450. Went back and forth a lot between the XLT and the Lariat. I wanted leather as it is easier to keep clean on the farm. The Lariat also has a nicer gauge cluster and dual zone. I can’t live without dual zone. My last truck didn’t have dual zone and I had to travel everywhere with my window open when travelling with my wife. She likes it too hot and I like it cold. I didn’t think I’d use the A/C seats but I use them almost daily. I love that feature. Dual zone saves my marriage.”
That’s good enough reason for us to choose a Lariat Super Duty, too. But we want to know what you think. So head over here and tell us which Super Duty trim level you opted for, and why!
Photos: Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
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