Ford F-150 Lightning STX: More Range, Power, & Ruggedness Replaces XLT

Ford has just pulled back the curtain on an exciting new addition to its F-150 Lightning lineup: the STX variant. Designed to inject some serious ruggedness and a significant boost in performance, this new model is set to replace the popular XLT, maintaining the same starting price. It seems Ford is listening closely to its customers and aiming to electrify more adventures, especially with recent shifts in Lightning sales.

Sliding in just above the entry-level Lightning Pro, the STX isn’t just a cosmetic refresh. It brings substantial upgrades under the hood. The new dual-motor system churns out an impressive 536 horsepower – a healthy jump from the XLT’s 452 hp – while still delivering a massive 775 pound-feet of torque. But perhaps the most exciting upgrade for many drivers will be the extended range, now reaching a solid 290 miles on a single charge, a considerable improvement over the current XLT’s 240 miles.

Beyond the power and range, the STX truly embraces its “rugged attitude.” Ford has outfitted it with new off-road wheels, grippy all-terrain tires, and practical running boards borrowed from the F-150 Tremor. Visually, it boasts a fresh grille, an optional tough black vinyl floor, striking blue accent lines, and STX badging proudly displayed everywhere, including on the seats. To complete the look, two new colors, Argon Blue and Marsh Gray, join the existing paint options.

Ford is clearly confident in the STX’s appeal, with internal projections expecting it to be their top seller next year. Will Marchand, Ford’s marketing manager, highlighted the customer demand: “Customers have been asking for a rugged F-150 Lightning with more range than the standard range XLT. Until now, if these owners wanted a rugged F-150 Lightning, they had to turn to the aftermarket to build the truck they wanted.” Now, the factory is delivering.

Get ready to see the F-150 Lightning STX at Ford dealerships early next year, with a starting price of $63,345 (before destination charges). It looks like Ford is ready to take on the electric truck market with a more powerful, longer-ranging, and undeniably tougher option.