What Does STX Mean on a Ford Truck? A Detailed Comparison with the XLT Trim

If you’re a Ford truck enthusiast or potential buyer, you might have wondered, “What does STX mean on a Ford truck?” The STX is an appearance package offered by Ford, which can be added to various trim levels of Ford trucks, including the F-150 and F-250 models. This article will delve into the details of the STX package, how it compares with the XLT trim level, and the potential benefits of each.

Contents

Understanding the STX Appearance Package

The STX Appearance Package is not a trim level but an add-on package that enhances the exterior design elements and adds a few interior enhancements to the F-150 and F-250 models. This package was first introduced in the 2019 lineup and is available in subsequent models. The STX package adds a sporty appearance to the truck, making it stand out in the crowd.

STX vs. XLT: Price Comparison

The STX Package adds an additional $1,995 to your Ford truck purchase, regardless of whether it’s an F-150 or F-250 model. This price is in addition to the existing truck’s Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). The MSRP for the 2019 Ford F-150 XLT is $34,160, while the 2020 Ford F-150 XLT MSRP is $34,760. If you wanted a Ford F-150 XLT with the STX Package, you would add the $1,995 to the MSRP for your total price.

STX vs. XLT: Exterior Upgrades

The most noticeable difference between the STX and XLT is the exterior design. The STX package includes body-colored bumpers and a grille, halogen headlamps, privacy glass, and 20-inch machined aluminum wheels. The F-250 STX package includes chrome bumpers, a grille, and 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels.

On the other hand, the XLT trim level includes chrome bumpers and a grille, automatic on/off headlamps, rain lamp wiper activation, and 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels, similar to the F-250 STX package.

STX vs. XLT: Interior Features

While the exterior differences between the STX Package and the XLT trim are quite noticeable, the interior differences are less so. The STX package adds unique STX badging to the interior. If you add the STX Package to a truck with a higher trim level than the XLT, you can expect more interior features.

The XLT trim level includes power locks and windows, MyKey, the SYNC 3 infotainment system, an eight-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a USB port.

STX vs. XLT: Engine Power & Performance

The engine options for the STX and XLT are based on the trim level of the F-150, not the STX package. The base engine is a 290-horsepower 3.3-liter V6. However, the XLT trim can also come with a 325-horsepower 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, a 395-horsepower 5.0-liter turbo V8, or a 375-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6. If you choose to add the STX Package to a Lariat, King Ranch, or Platinum trim, you can also opt for the 250-horsepower 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. The Limited and raptor trims offer an additional 450-horsepower 3.5-liter high-output twin-turbo V6. With Ford trucks, owners can choose between rear- or four-wheel-drive. Plus, the base engine comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, while all other engines have a ten-speed automatic transmission included.

Conclusion

The STX Appearance Package and the XLT trim level both offer unique features and enhancements to Ford trucks. The STX package adds a sporty look and feels to the truck, while the XLT trim level offers a range of comfort and convenience features. The choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences, needs, and budget. Always consult with a trusted automotive dealer or technician before making your final decision. Happy trucking!

About the author, Laurence Perkins

Laurence Perkins is the passionate car enthusiast behind the blog My Auto Machine. With over a decade of experience in the automotive industry, Perkins has knowledge and experience with a wide range of car makes and models. His particular interests lie in performance and modification, and his blog covers these topics in-depth. In addition to his own blog, Perkins is a respected voice in the automotive community and writes for various automotive publications. His insights and opinions on cars are highly sought-after.