The Ford F-150 Lightning has redefined what an electric truck can be since its launch. It’s not just a zero-emission workhorse—it’s a tech-packed, high-performance machine that retains the legendary capability of America’s best-selling truck. For 2026, Ford is making a bold move: replacing the XLT trim with the all-new STX, a rugged, long-range offering at the same price.
If you’ve been waiting for an electric truck that doesn’t force you to choose between affordability, range, and toughness, the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX might be your perfect match. Let’s explore why this trim is a game-changer, how it compares to the competition, and what it means for the future of EV trucks in America.
Why Did Ford Replace the XLT with the STX?
Ford’s decision to phase out the XLT in favor of the STX isn’t just a simple rebranding—it’s a strategic shift to deliver more value, capability, and appeal to a broader range of buyers. Here’s why this change matters:
1. Meeting Customer Demand for Ruggedness & Range
The XLT was a solid mid-range option, but many buyers wanted:
- More off-road capability without jumping to the Lariat or Platinum.
- Longer range as standard (the XLT offered a standard-range battery as the base option).
- A tougher, more aggressive look to match the F-150’s “Built Ford Tough” reputation.
The STX addresses all three by offering:
✅ Standard extended-range battery (320+ miles)—no more paying extra for long-distance capability.
✅ Rugged styling with all-terrain tires, skid plates, and available FX4 Off-Road Package.
✅ Same starting price as the outgoing XLT, making it a no-brainer upgrade.
2. Keeping Up with the Competition
The electric truck market is heating up, with rivals like the Chevy Silverado EV, Tesla Cybertruck, and Rivian R1T pushing boundaries in range, tech, and off-road performance. By introducing the STX, Ford ensures the Lightning remains competitive in:
- Value for money (long-range battery at a mid-tier price).
- Off-road credibility (a weak point for some EV trucks).
- Towing and payload capacity (where Ford already leads).
3. Simplifying the Lineup for Better Customer Choice
Ford’s trim simplification makes it easier for buyers to choose:
- Pro = Fleet/work-focused, standard-range battery.
- STX = Rugged, long-range, best value.
- Lariat = Luxury + tech.
- Platinum = Ultimate premium experience.
This clearer hierarchy helps buyers quickly identify the best fit for their needs.
2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX: Deep Dive into Features & Specs
Let’s break down every aspect of the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX, from performance and range to tech and off-road capabilities.
Battery, Range & Charging: No More Range Anxiety
One of the biggest upgrades in the STX is the standard extended-range battery, which was previously an optional upgrade on the XLT.
Battery & Range Specifications
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Battery Type | Extended-Range Lithium-Ion (98 kWh usable) |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 320+ miles (vs. 240 miles on standard-range models) |
| EPA MPGe (City/Hwy/Combined) | 78/63/70 MPGe |
| Charging (DC Fast Charge, 150 kW) | 15% to 80% in ~41 minutes |
| Home Charging (Ford Charge Station Pro, 80A) | 19.2 kW, ~8 hours for full charge |
| Public Charging (Level 2, 48A) | ~10 hours for full charge |
Why the Extended-Range Battery Matters
- No more compromising on distance: The 320+ mile range means the STX can handle daily commutes, road trips, and towing without constant charging stops.
- Better resale value: Long-range EVs retain value better than short-range models.
- Future-proofing: As charging infrastructure improves, having extra range ensures you’re covered for years.
Charging at Home & On the Road
Ford makes charging easy and convenient with:
- Ford Charge Station Pro: A home charging solution that delivers 80 amps (19.2 kW), cutting charge times significantly.
- FordPass Charging Network: Access to 84,000+ public chargers (including Tesla Superchargers via adapter).
- Intelligent Range Prediction: Uses real-time traffic, weather, and elevation data to optimize range estimates.
Performance & Towing: Built for Work & Play
The F-150 Lightning STX doesn’t just look tough—it performs like a true Ford truck.
Performance Specs
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 580 hp (dual-motor AWD) |
| Torque | 775 lb-ft (instant electric torque) |
| 0-60 MPH | ~4.0 seconds (with instant torque) |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 10,000 lbs (with Max Trailer Tow Package) |
| Max Payload Capacity | Up to 2,235 lbs |
| Drive Modes | Normal, Sport, Off-Road, Tow/Haul |
Towing & Hauling: Can It Replace a Gas Truck?
The STX is engineered to tow and haul just like a gas-powered F-150, with:
- Trailer Tow Package: Includes hitch receiver, wiring harness, and integrated brake controller.
- Onboard Scales: Helps monitor payload and distribute weight for safer towing.
- Pro Trailer Backup Assist: Makes backing up a trailer effortless (even for beginners).
- Trailer Lighting Check: Lets you test trailer lights from the infotainment screen.
Real-World Towing Experience:
- Towing 7,000+ lbs? The STX handles it smoothly, with regenerative braking helping to extend range while towing.
- Off-road towing? The available FX4 Off-Road Package adds skid plates, off-road shocks, and all-terrain tires for rough terrain.
Rugged Design: Built to Handle Anything
The STX isn’t just a rebadged XLT—it’s a more aggressive, capable truck with distinct styling and off-road upgrades.
Exterior Design Highlights
- Blacked-out grille and badging for a meaner, stealthier look.
- 18-inch dark alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires (standard).
- Skid plates for underbody protection on rough trails.
- Available FX4 Off-Road Package (includes:
- Off-road-tuned shocks
- Hill Descent Control
- Recoverable front tow hooks
- Terrain Management System (Mud/Ruts, Sand, etc.))
How Does It Compare to the XLT?
| Feature | 2025 XLT | 2026 STX |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tires | All-season | All-terrain |
| Skid Plates | Optional | Standard |
| Off-Road Package | FX4 (optional) | FX4 (optional, enhanced) |
| Wheel Size | 18″ or 20″ | 18″ dark alloy (standard) |
| Grille Design | Chrome/black | Full blackout |
Verdict: The STX looks and feels more rugged than the XLT, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Tech & Interior: Modern Comfort Meets Utility
The STX isn’t just about toughness—it’s packed with cutting-edge tech to make every drive smarter and more enjoyable.
Infotainment & Connectivity
- 15.5-inch SYNC 4A touchscreen (with wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto).
- 12-inch digital gauge cluster (customizable displays for towing, off-roading, and efficiency).
- Ford BlueCruise 1.2 (hands-free highway driving, available).
- Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Keeps your truck up-to-date with the latest features.
Pro Power Onboard: Your Truck as a Mobile Generator
The **STX comes with Pro Power Onboard (9.6 kW output), allowing you to:
- Power tools at a job site (up to 7,200W).
- Run a tailgate party (blenders, TVs, speakers).
- Backup your home in a power outage (with Ford Intelligent Backup Power).
Interior Comfort & Practicality
- Cloth/vinyl seats (durable and easy to clean).
- 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
- 60/40 split-fold rear seat (for extra cargo space).
- Large center console with wireless charging.
How Does the STX Compare to Other F-150 Lightning Trims?
Let’s see how the STX stacks up against the Pro, Lariat, and Platinum in price, range, and features.
| Trim | Starting MSRP (Est.) | Range (EPA Est.) | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro | ~$55,000 | 240 miles (Standard Range) | Fleet-focused, vinyl seats, basic tech | Work trucks, fleets |
| STX | ~$62,000 | 320+ miles (Extended Range) | Rugged styling, all-terrain tires, skid plates, Pro Power Onboard | Adventure seekers, value-conscious buyers |
| Lariat | ~$75,000 | 320+ miles (Extended Range) | Luxury interior, leather seats, advanced driver aids | Tech & comfort lovers |
| Platinum | ~$95,000 | 320+ miles (Extended Range) | Premium materials, massaging seats, 360-degree camera | Luxury buyers |
Why the STX is the Best Value:
- Same price as the XLT but with long-range battery standard.
- More rugged and capable than the Pro.
- $13K cheaper than the Lariat with similar range and towing.
STX vs. The Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The electric truck market is getting crowded, with Tesla Cybertruck, Chevy Silverado EV, and Rivian R1T all vying for dominance. Here’s how the STX compares:
| Model | Starting Price | Range (EPA) | Towing Capacity | Off-Road Focus | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 Lightning STX | ~$62,000 | 320+ miles | 10,000 lbs | Yes (FX4 Package) | Best towing, ruggedness, and value |
| Tesla Cybertruck (Dual Motor) | ~$61,000 | 340 miles | 11,000 lbs | Limited | Futuristic design, fast charging |
| Chevy Silverado EV WT | ~$52,000 | 450 miles | 10,000 lbs | No | Longest range, fleet-friendly |
| Rivian R1T (Dual Motor) | ~$73,000 | 314 miles | 11,000 lbs | Yes (best-in-class) | Premium off-road tech |
Where the STX Wins:
✅ Best towing tech (Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Onboard Scales).
✅ More affordable than Rivian with similar capability.
✅ Rugged styling and off-road options (unlike Tesla).
✅ Proven Ford reliability and service network.
Where It Falls Short:
❌ Shorter range than Silverado EV WT (but real-world range is comparable).
❌ Less futuristic than Cybertruck (if that’s your style).
Who Should Buy the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX?
The STX is the perfect choice if you:
✔ Want a long-range electric truck without paying a premium.
✔ Need a rugged, off-road-ready truck (but don’t want a $90K+ Rivian).
✔ Tow or haul regularly (the 10,000-lb capacity is best-in-class).
✔ Prefer Ford’s proven reliability over newer EV brands.
✔ Love tech but don’t need luxury (the Lariat is pricier).
If you’re torn between the Pro and Lariat, the STX gives you the best of both worlds—long-range capability and rugged utility at a mid-tier price.
FAQs About the 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX
1. What is the starting price of the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX?
The STX trim starts at around $62,000, the same as the outgoing XLT trim.
2. Does the STX come with the extended-range battery standard?
Yes! Unlike the XLT, which offered a standard-range option, the STX comes exclusively with the extended-range battery (320+ miles).
3. Can the STX tow as much as the Lariat or Platinum?
Absolutely. The STX has the same max towing capacity (10,000 lbs with the Max Trailer Tow Package) as higher trims.
4. What off-road features does the STX include?
The STX comes with all-terrain tires, skid plates, and an available FX4 Off-Road Package (includes off-road shocks, hill descent control, and terrain modes).
5. Is Ford BlueCruise available on the STX?
Yes! Ford BlueCruise 1.2 (hands-free highway driving) is available as an option.
6. When will the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX be available?
Ford is expected to begin deliveries in late 2025, with orders opening in mid-2025.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX?
The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX is a home run for drivers who want:
✅ Long-range capability without the premium price.
✅ Rugged styling and off-road readiness.
✅ The same towing and tech as higher trims.
If you’ve been waiting for an affordable, capable, and tough electric truck, the STX is the best value in the Lightning lineup—and one of the best EV trucks on the market.
