If you have gone to check out a new Ford F-150 and been confused by all of the different options and features – not to mention the corresponding letters on the side of the truck – you’re not alone. The letters XL, STX, and XLT are some of the different ways Ford describes their truck specifications.
Each acronym relates to the extra features that are specific to each style of truck and are aligned with what the truck is made for. So, with that in mind, what does STX on a ford truck mean?
What does STX mean on a Ford F-150? The STX on the Ford F-150 stands for Sports Truck Extreme or Sports Truck Extra. Before 2015, STX referred to the trim, build or style of the vehicle, or what it was built for. After 2017, Ford changed the STX package to strictly an appearance package.
STX was usually a mid-level, or sports type trim with a few more features that are built for extreme conditions. However, Ford started building all trucks with these features so, therefore, the “STX package” wasn’t necessary until they changed what the package was offered.
XL is usually the base or stock version of the truck that can be found at most dealerships.
Specific features of each Ford cab style
There are extra features that are specific to each style of Ford F-150 truck. To make sure you get the most out of what you buy, the features are aligned with what the truck is made for.
Regular cab, Extended cab, and Crew cab are the three different options for your truck cab.
- With the Regular cab, you’re looking at a two-door, two-seater cab.
- With the Extended cab, you will have two-doors but the manufacturer builds in enough space behind the two front seats that can accommodate two more seats.
- With the Crew cab, you will have four doors with room for two people in the front and three people in the back.
However, certain upgrades are only available on certain cab styles due to specific measurements some upgrades require.
Ford F-150 XL
The XL is not fitted with any extra features; this model is the base of everything. You will have all of the given features like power windows, stock cloth seats, and black trim on the grille and bumpers.
This truck will be your cheapest option, given that it will serve its purpose as a work vehicle, but it will not be fitted with any improvements that increase ease of use.
Towing packages and extra feature packages can be added or tweaked while still sticking to the basic appearance, however, starting with the 2018 model, you can only upgrade this to the STX package on the Supercab and Supercrew models.
Ford F-150 STX – Early Versions
Every model year before 2015, the STX version was more of a sporty style truck. While maintaining the great benefit of being relatively affordable, it was also built to withstand rougher terrain and much riskier adventures than the base model.
Specific functional features you would find on the 2015 STX model were:
- Side-curtain airbags
- Extra stability control, to keep the truck from rolling in an accident
- Full power accessories
- Remote keyless entry.
The STX also had a few visually appealing upgrades that you could choose from like the grill, rim and,bumper detailing could all be coordinated with the truck color. You also had the option of color-coordinating carpeting with your cloth seats.
Ford F-150 STX – 2017 and beyond
Ford stopped offering the STX package as a sporty addition in 2015 but then brought it back in 2017 after making it strictly an appearance package. The options you are presented with now for the STX style truck are:
- Machined aluminum rims.
- Flash grey painted pockets.
- Body-color bumpers.
- Halogen fog lamps.
- Privacy glass.
- Nostrils with a black mesh
Ford F-150 XLT
The XLT style is the most feature-rich style you can find, usually referred to as the luxury package.
While it has everything the STX has, functionality-wise, it can also be outfitted with a keyless entry keypad, automatic headlights, Bluetooth connectivity, rear privacy glass, and fog lights.
Visually you’re looking at the same thing except it comes with chrome detailing already installed, whereas the STX it was an added option.
Which is the right Ford F-150 for you?
The main reason a person would buy a truck is to help carry or tow a large amount of weight or items. XL, STX, and XLT all refer to visual changes or popular features. However, they have little to no bearing on things like towing capacity, horsepower, cab size, or torque.
If you need options in that category, you will want to look for different towing packages. There is a myriad of choices depending on what you would use your truck for, and the “extra” features are just a plus.
For example, getting into your truck at night and not having to remember to turn on the lights is a nice quality of life improvement.
What are you using your Ford F-150 For?
Buying a truck is not something to take lightly. Let’s lay out what some things are that you should consider to help narrow down what the best option is for you.
- Are you going to use it for a lot of adventures?
- A lot of mileage and little towing?
- Or are you in construction or in the middle of a house renovation and need the truck to hold a lot of weight?
- Do you just like how trucks look?
The fact is, you don’t want to buy a huge towing package if you aren’t going to use it, you would not only waste money, but the truck wouldn’t be used for its true purpose!
Extras on your Ford F-150
Are you a techy person? If you need a GPS screen, Bluetooth, automatic power everything and seat warmers, you’re going to want to go for the XLT or luxury package. These options are only going to improve your quality of life while using your truck.
However, if you don’t need GPS, you don’t like Bluetooth and don’t mind your seat being cold, you can just stick with a stock package and save some money. Let’s just remember saving money might mean you have to turn on your own headlights and use your key to unlock the door instead of pressing a button!
Considering the Ford F-150 STX
The best thing for you to do, when making a decision, is to sit down with all your options and figure out what you do and don’t need. Once you narrow down your wants and needs, you will easily be able to pick a specific towing package, appearance package, and upgrades to complete your unique truck.
Always ask your dealer about what you can pick and choose instead of having to get an entire package you may not need. A few upgrades may be linked to others; for example, an appearance package may be one flat rate, so you pay the same whether you want all the changes or not.
Some upgrades may be individual things you can forgo without losing out on money. So, pick your favorite color, decide which cool upgrades fit your use (and your style) and choose the right truck for the job.
Conclusion
And there you have it. Now you know what STX on a Ford means. It’s quite simple, so I wanted to share with you a little more information to help you make your best decision when buying.
I hope you’ve enjoyed the post, and now can answer what STX means on a Ford F-150 with confidence!