We all know that high trim level trucks are expensive, but apparently, so are lower-trim level pickups.
Getting Expensive
One of the most common complaints we hear in the Ford Truck Enthusiasts forums relates to the cost and complexity of new trucks. We've talked at length in the past about how a new F-150 can cost as much as $70k+, with a new Super Duty touching the six-figure mark. But as it turns out, even basic, low trim level trucks aren't cheap these days, either.
Photos: Brighton Ford
Going Up
Just take a look at this brand new 2021 Ford F-150 XL up for sale at Brighton Ford, for example. It has an MSRP of a whopping $45,050, though current incentives bring that price down to $38,931. Regardless, it wasn't that long ago when this kind of money netted you a fully loaded, high trim level F-150, and now, it isn't nearly enough.
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
Content Per Dollar
Granted, it is worth pointing out that this truck isn't some base level work truck - it's fitted with the STX package, which gives it a rather nice appearance - no gray grille or bumpers here, but rather body-color pieces. Still, relatively speaking, this truck costs roughly half what a loaded Limited might run, and it is packing a lot of content for the money.
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
Well Equipped
This truck is powered not by the base V6, but rather Ford's 2.7-liter EcoBoost, which cranks out a solid 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. It has a cloth interior of course, but now the standard infotainment screen in these trucks is the biggest we could get in the previous-gen - an 8-inch unit with the latest SYNC 4 system.
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
High Tech
With 3.73 rear gears, this particular truck can also tow up to a respectable 10,000 pounds, which is obviously a lot. It also features the latest technology available, including niceties like Wi-Fi connectivity and over-the-air updates, lane departure warning, and a whole suite of safety features that you had to opt for a higher trim level in previous generations to get.
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
Too Much?
The truck is quite frugal as well, returning 19 miles-per-gallon in the city and 24 miles-per-gallon on the highway. And with over $6k in incentives, it's also priced quite well in comparison to what we've seen so far. So the question remains - is $38k too much for a truck like this?
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
Worth It?
Many will say yes and point to what trucks used to cost years ago. But we must consider that the 2021 F-150 offers far more features, far greater capability, and a lot more in the way of creature comforts than previous generations. And that's why prices have risen in recent years. Whether or not that makes them worth the money, well, that's for buyers to decide.
Photos: Brighton Ford
>>Join the conversation about the prices going up on work pickups right here in the forum.
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