I don't recall. It was almost 2 years ago and I didn't keep any paperwork except for my final build.

And truthfully, maybe it wasn't more, but "about the same". Within $1000 on an $80k truck that's "the same" in my book.

Additionally, there were things you couldn't get in the Lariat, like the projector LEDs. And while that was not a deciding factor before I ordered, I sure am glad that's what I got. They are the second best headlights I've ever had, second only to what would today be a $125k Mercedes.

 

Interesting video, short but interesting. I'm working on a future build for a F-350 7.3 CCLB DRW 4.30, and looking at XLT with the XLT Premium package for towing a 15k fifth wheel for vacations wherever and casual daily driving in a semi-rural area. Keep going between that and the Lariat. Was looking at the Lariat Premium package too, but not sure I'm gonna make use of (or necessarily want) all that additional electronic wizardry.

 

Just for giggles I would build a similar build with the XL STX just to see what you want that is missing.

The XLT sits in an awkward place for me, it has a lot of standard stuff that STX also covers or by adding XL options that cost more individually which is what it is, but Ford for their own reasons doesn't let you get the LED headlights without the XLT Premium. I am not 100% sure but the STX in 2026 doesn't mention the smart driver tech stuff that 2025 has so it is possible you get less nannies with the STX.

 

XLT has usually been the trim level that has suited me best with other Ford pickups I have owned. The upgrade to LED reflector headlights was one of the things that got my attention in the XLT Premium package. The package does actually have some other things that I see as useful, like:
• 360-Degree Camera Package
• LED Box Lighting
• LED Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL)
• LED Fog Lamps
• LED Reflector Lamps
• BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Heated Front Seats
• Mirror – rearview, electrochromic self-dimming
• Power-folding with Autofold, PowerScope® Telescoping, Power Glass Trailer Tow Mirrors with Heat
• Rear Parking Sensors
• B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with HD Radio™ (8 speakers including subwoofer)
• 12” LCD Center Display

Being that this might be my last new truck, I've also been considering Lariat, which gives me all of this plus the ActiveX seats, the bright anodized step bar (with the DRW), the dual zone auto temp control, power passenger seat, wrapped and heated steering wheel, and a bunch of other goodies some of which I like, some of which I am kinda meh and others I could live without. I am looking at the Lariat Premium package; I was more excited over the XLT Premium package frankly but the jury is still out. Don't like that the LP package substitutes the platform running boards for the bright anodized step bar.

 

Not to sound morbid but if that's the case, get the Lariat. We all only live once.

 

Clearly you're no feline.

Poor guy.

 

No, nothing THAT bad, at least that I'm aware of! I just tend to keep my vehicles a very long time, that's all. Not too sure I'll be buying a new one when I'm like 85 😅

 

I tend to agree with you, I've had four platinums over the years, more lariat with ultimate packages. I think the biggest difference nowadays is the projector headlights and LED tail lights. A little bit different finishes, maybe some other oddball things like onboard scales which are useless, pretty sure that was standard on my 24 Platinum f450. ...... Oh and don't forget those massaging seats. Oh boy.

 

I don't (forget). I generally use them at about 4 hours into a 6-7 hour trip that I make pretty regularly.