For over five decades, the Ford F-150 has been the backbone of the American workforce when it comes to trucks. The F-150 has been "Built Ford Tough" for longer than most of us have been alive, and it's the pickup gold standard for a reason. But if you're standing on a dealer lot looking at a 2025 and a 2026, you're probably wondering if there's a real difference. We're here to break down the details.
Key Takeaways:
- You won't see many physical differences between the 2025 and 2026 versions.
- The engine lineup remains broad, offering a configuration for every specific use case or budget.
- As of this writing, 2026 units are not available, but they should be on the lot in late winter or early spring.
How Does the 2026 Ford F-150 Compare to the 2025 Ford F-150?
If you were expecting a design or mechanical overhaul for 2026, you might be surprised to find things mostly unchanged, but that's only because Ford went so hard on the refresh last year. That's when it finally dropped the Lobo package, which is a total throwback for anyone who loves that lowered "street truck" vibe and a loud V8. The car company also beefed up the STX with the 200A kit, throwing in 20-inch rims and LED fogs that turn with your steering wheel so you can see where you're going. Plus, you get those bright Electric Lime fender vents, zone lighting, and a rear defroster to round it all out.
However, the story for the remaining trims was more about "addition by subtraction." To keep the entry price of the XLT lower, Ford removed several standard features, like chrome accents on the grille and handles, running boards, and even the dual-zone climate control. Additionally, the XLT lost its standard 360-degree camera and various Pro-Trailer assists, which now require the 301A Equipment Group to get back.
The Lariat followed a similar path, swapping its leather-trimmed interior for the new ActiveX material. While it now rolls on standard, larger 20-inch wheels, it lost the power-sliding rear window and the garage door opener. Even the exterior Signature Lighting was cut. Meanwhile, the STX saw its wheels downsized from 20 to 18 inches. Across the board, colors like Darkened Bronze and Avalanche were retired to make room for Marsh Grey and Space White Metallic.
Does the 2026 Ford F-150 Offer a lot of Engines?
Yes! The F-150's greatest strength is its ability to be whatever the owner needs it to be, thanks to a massive engine roster. Every engine pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The standard base engine is a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, which delivers 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Those who want a traditional feel can opt for the 5.0-liter V8, generating 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet. For heavier hauling, the 400 hp 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 offers a massive 500 pound-feet of torque. The Raptor gets a high-output version of this V6, tuned for 450 horsepower.
If you want the most modern setup, the PowerBoost Hybrid combines a V6 with electric power for 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet. Finally, the Raptor R stands alone with its supercharged 5.2-liter V8, cranking out a whopping 700 horsepower. No matter your needs, you're covered in terms of power.
Powertrain Features
| 2026 Ford F-150 |
2025 Ford F-150 |
| 2.7L turbo V6 base engine |
2.7L turbo V6 base engine |
| 5.0L V8 with traditional power feel |
5.0L V8 with traditional power fee |
| 3.5L turbocharged V6 and off-road Raptor tune |
3.5L turbocharged V6 and off-road Raptor tune |
| Hybrid V6 with electric assist (PowerBoost) |
Hybrid V6 with electric assist (PowerBoost) |
| Supercharged 5.2L V8 exclusive to Raptor R |
Supercharged 5.2L V8 exclusive to Raptor R |
| 10-speed automatic paired to every engine |
10-speed automatic paired to every engine |
| Choice of RWD or 4WD depending on trim level |
Choice of RWD or 4WD depending on trim level |
Are You Considering a Ford F-150?
If not, you should be. It's one of America's most popular pickups for its power and reliability, and a trusted companion on and off the job. Contact our sales team at Jarrett Scott Ford for more info on when the '26 lineup makes its debut. While you wait, swing by and take a 2025 for a spin.