2022 Ford F-150 Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

A beast with brains, the F-150 is designed to be tough and productive. A blend of premium-grade muscle and finely tuned intelligence, the beloved truck has been ranked as the best-seller in North America for over 45 years straight. In fact, this truck of authority has managed to be the top-selling vehicle of any kind in the United States. It's an attractive truck with serious towing, hauling and off-road capabilities. The F-150 is a full-size, light-duty truck that's available in an array of different body styles. There are always numerous powertrains, options and packages to choose from too.  

The 2022 models of the F-150 are available in eight different trim levels. With all of those options, buying a new F-150 can be a daunting task. Read on to find out analysis of all eight trim levels. Each trim will be compared to the others to highlight their similarities and differences.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 XL vs XLT Trims. What is the difference?

The first two levels for the Ford F-150 are named the XL and the XLT. The XL is your basic work truck and offers great value. Both the XL and XLT present themselves in the same body styles. They come in Regular Cab, Super Cab and SuperCrew variations. The Regular Cab is a two-door model and has no rear seats.

The Super Cab model adds two half-sized rear doors plus a backseat area. The small back doors open up backwards. On the other hand, the SuperCrew model has four full-sized doors and a larger space for seating passengers. This model comfortably seats up to six people, whereas a Regular Cab truck can only hold three - all up front.

Regular Cab and Super Cab of both trims can have either an 8-foot or 6.5-foot cargo box. With the SuperCrew, you get to choose variations of a 5.5-foot or a 6.5-foot cargo box. Although a 4X2 drive train is standard for these models, both have the availability to swap for a 4X4 all-wheel drive train. This will, of course, require a modest price increase.

Powered by a 3.3-liter Ti-VCT V6, the XL and XLT trims demonstrate responsive performance with 290 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. The Ti-VCT (twin independent variable cam timing) opens and closes the valves in precise duration to optimize power output across the performance band. Two EcoBoost V6 engines and a 5.0-liter V8 engine are also available, which offer best-of-class towing and payload, respectively. The trims' high-output stock engine mates to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The XL mounts on17-inch steel wheels in silver finish. The XLT gets 17-inch aluminum wheels that are painted silver. Both models get automatic headlights and auto high beams. The XL has available halogen fog lamps, while the XLT has optional LED fog lamps. There's a basic, manual tailgate for both, though the XLT adds a power-locking feature.

The XLT receives an extra touch of chrome trimming on its door handles and bumpers for some flamboyance. The XL features basic, manual exterior mirrors, whilst the XLT upgrades to power-adjustable mirrors plus a heating feature. Besides, the XLT also has an optional Twin-Panel Moonroof in the SuperCrew configuration.

On the inside, stock models of both trim levels have a 40/20/40 bench seat up front. These are covered in cloth upholstery, though vinyl is available for something that's easier to clean. SuperCrew models of both trims have a 60/40 split-bench in back with a flip-up center armrest and an elongated cushion.

The XL trim level gets a basic AM/FM stereo and Ford's SYNC 4 Infotainment System with an 8-inch capacitive touchscreen. There are USB ports for connecting and charging smartphones and other devices. This system gets FordPass Connect with a 4G WiFi Hotspot. Up to 10 devices can be connected at the same time. This allows every passenger to stay connected and entertained.

The XLT trim level shares the same infotainment system as the XL, but has the option to upgrade the audio. Serious audiophiles can choose to have the standard audio system replaced with an 18-speaker premium sound system by Bang & Olufsen for some extra cost. Both trim levels have basic single-zone heating and air conditioning.
When it comes to safety, Ford does not like to economize or cut corners. The Ford F-150 XL and XLT both are fitted with front airbags, plus side-mounted airbags for the driver and front rider. We can't forget about Ford's Safety Canopy, which are side-curtain airbags that add a cushion of protection for everyone onboard. Each model of the F-150 comes with Ford Co-Pilot360™Technology; however, you may find more or less specific features depending on the trim.

Both trim levels here have Roll-Stability Control and four-wheel, anti-lock brakes. There's a Tire-Pressure Monitor on both trims. Both models get Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. Post-Collision Braking, Hill-Start Assist and a Rear-View Camera with Hitch Assist round out the rest of the common features for the XL and XLT.

Moving up to the XLT trim level adds on Ford's Blind-Spot Information System. Called BLISS for short, this system even offers a Cross-Traffic Alert feature. The XLT trim level also offers Lane-Keeping and Reverse-Sensing systems.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 XLT vs Lariat Trims. What Is the Difference?

As always, the Lariat trim is designed and crafted to the toughest standard. You can expect the Lariat trim to have a sizable price spike from the XLT. The truck is available in the Crew Cab and SuperCrew configuration and is bestowed with all three cargo box length options. Although it is built standard with the 4X2 drivetrain, 4X4 is available as well. Thanks to its 2.7L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, Lariat gets a power upgrade.

The relentless engine spits out 325 horsepower with 400 pound-feet of torque. The Lariat has the same transmission system as the previous two trim levels. Looking at its exterior, you can notice the Lariat's 18-inch machined-aluminum wheels. The headlights and taillights are now LED models. The Lariat also automatically gets the LED fog lamps.

Moving on to the interior, keen eyes will immediately spot the changes. For example, the seats are upgraded to leather-trimmed upholstery and are equipped with 10-way power adjustments with a memory feature. They also have adjustable lumbar support. There's an optional navigation system for this trim level. There's now a 12-inch display for the infotainment system and an optional Active Park Assist feature.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat vs King Ranch Trims. What is the difference?

The next trim level up again comes with a power increase. The King Ranch is powered by a big 5.0-liter, Ti-VCT V8. This engine cranks out 400 horsepower with 410 pound-feet of torque. The King Ranch is only available as a SuperCrew model with either the 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot cargo bed. It can be had in 4X2 and 4X4 configurations.

There aren't many differences when comparing the King Ranch exterior to the Lariat. The King Ranch gets some angular step bars. These come in a Stone Gray color. On the inside, the King Ranch has bucket seats up front. These now have fine-leather trim. There's also a center flow-through console.

The King Ranch has heated seats in front and back. It automatically gets the Bang & Olufsen audio system. The remaining infotainment features are basically the same as those of the Lariat. Both trim levels here have Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control. The safety features remain mostly unchanged.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 King Ranch vs Platinum Trims. What is the difference?

The next trim level is called the Platinum. This trim has the same available body styles and drive-train options as the King Ranch. Both trims share the same powertrain, steering systems, suspension and transmission systems as well. Mechanically and functionally, there's little difference here.

On the outside, the Platinum has a fancier grille with some chrome trim. It gets power-deployable running boards. It has a set of 20-inch, polished aluminum wheels. These come with a set of all-season tires on 4X2 models and all-terrain tires for 4X4 models.

The seats and infotainment systems are nearly identical here. The seats do get a massage feature up front, however. The steering wheel gets a premium-leather wrap. The driver-assist tech and safety features again remain mostly the same.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 Platinum vs Limited Trim. What is the difference?

The Limited models of the 2022 Ford F-150 are only offered in the SuperCrew style with a 5.5-foot cargo box. This trim is powered straight from its belly with Ford's 3.5-liter, turbocharged, EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine offers best-in-class towing capabilities when paired with the Maximum Trailering Package. The engine is home to an earth-shaking 400 horsepower, 500 pound-feet of torque and a 14,000-pound towing capacity.

The Limited gets a Smart Hitch feature.This allows the weight of a trailer to be redistributed for better performance. This trim level has Pro Trailer Backup Assist to make driving in reverse a little easier. It also features Adaptive Steering. The Limited has a handy power tailgate with a step and a work surface.

The Limited trim gets an Admiral Blue, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The infotainment-system features and premium-audio setup are the same as what the Platinum offers. Yet again, there are no significant changes in the safety features.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 Limited vs Tremor. What Is the Difference?

The Tremor models are only available in the SuperCrew style with a 5.5-foot box. They automatically come with 4X4 all-wheel drive. In fact, they come with a number of upgrades for better off-road performance. There are also some unique cosmetic flourishes for this trim level. The Tremor has the same 3.5-liter, turbocharged V6 as the Limited trim.

Tremor is a beast designed to rule the off-roads. Robust suspension system and skid plates protect the transfer case, front differential and fuel tank. The locking rear differential provides better traction over almost any type of terrain.

A peak inside the cabin reveals a stylish black-leather wrap on the steering wheel. Bright orange stitching pop out in the dark leather for a chic, athletic look. The Tremor sports look daunting on a set of 18-inch aluminum wheels with a Dark-Matte finish.

Compare the 2022 Ford F-150 Tremor vs Raptor Trims. What is the difference?

The best off-road machine, 2022 Ford F-150 Raptor, is presented in the SuperCrew variation with a 5.5-foot cargo box. The Raptor is armored with 4X4 all-wheel drive, a sport exhaust system, a modified long-travel suspension, underbody skid plates, high-output 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, and a full load of off-road tech. As the ground quakes underneath it, the engine kindles a thrilling 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.

The Raptor has a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This is a SelectShift system with Progressive Range Select for different driving situations. The ground clearance is raised for the Raptor. It also gets a fine-tuned suspension and better angles for approach, departure and break-over.

Unfortunately, some convenience features and quality-of-life upgrades that were on the Tremor are excluded on the Raptor. These include the premium sound system and the LED fog lights. Think of the Tremor as an off-road vehicle with plenty of convenience features and luxury appointments, while the Raptor is solely focused on performance. Keep in mind that these features can be added back on to the Raptor as options.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Ford F-150 is an amazing pickup truck, no matter which trim you choose to go home with. For an affordable work horse, the XL is the way to go. For most buyers, the Lariat will be the best pick. It's tough, works hard and smart, while still offering enough convenience and comfort features to make it an excellent daily drive. It also has a low MSRP, making it an amazing value buy.

As a recreational vehicle where off-road adventures are a priority, the Raptor just cannot be beat. Nothing else on or off the road can compete with it in this category. For heavy work requirements, a model with the 3.5-liter, EcoBoost V6 will yield the best results. For a combination of routine work tasks and everyday driving, the Lariat is your best pick.