I was debating this for awhile too.....

Finally decided to order a Lariat 501A package with the bucket seats/console and all the options that I really wanted. Going this route was not all that much more than an XLT 302A with the same options I want. The Lariat gives you leather interior of course, but also the heated and cooled front seats, the automatic 4WD system, and some other things that can't be added to the XLT. Incentives/rebates are usually better on the XLT than Lariat and higher models, but even taking that into consideration, I went with the Lariat this time.

Having said that, the new XLT has received some really nice features and upgrades and is a very nice package, especially when 302A is included. No bad choice here - just depends on what one really wants.......and whether that can likely be found in dealer stock or would have to be ordered.

 

I am never this guy, but I can't help myself this time. The 3.5 vs 5.0 debate has occurred so many times on this site there is simply no reason to ask anymore. Just do some reading on this forum.

As for XLT vs Lariat. It all depends on your budget. It's awfully easy to spend someone else's money. I have an XLT not because I can't afford a Lariat, but because it is not worth it to me. I also tow a travel trailer and want every pound of payload capacity I can get. Payload generally decreases as trim level increases.

 

The gauges in the XLT (or every truck for that matter) are all digital, they just plug in. There's no actual/physical cable running to the transmission.

 

I went from a GMC AT4 fully loaded to an XLT 302A 5.0 and I feel that the Ford offers a lot more at that trim level than the current GM trucks. I knew I wanted the the V8 since I don't tow much and just love sound of the exhaust note. I did, however, test drive the 2.7 and 3.5, which I know are great engines but I wouldn't have liked my truck as much if I went that route (just personal preference).

A good chunk of "luxury features" the AT4 had I don't even miss and barely notice that they're gone. It all comes down to preference I guess. I figured out early on that I didn't like paying a premium for features I didn't need like 4A, a moonroof, sliding back window, wireless charging, etc. Once I saw what options Ford offered, I realized quickly that the XLT 302A Sport is exactly what I wanted; it had the large screen, a center shifter, LED DRL's, and the interior work surface. I personally loved the mix of an analog speedo/tach and a large crisp center digital display--a bit of new school with just the right amount of old school. The Lariat would have been awesome but the price point difference was huge (I actually tried to negotiate on a "demo" loaded lariat and didn't like the final numbers).

I do wish I would have gotten a lower/higher gear ratio (I ended up with a 3.31, would've preferred a 3.73 after learning that I might have a quicker 0-60?) and the extended range fuel tank. Other than that, the XLT price point, discounts, and the trade-in value for the AT4 made it a super easy decision to switch back to Ford and scale back on a few things. The ONLY thing that I miss (and will eventually add) is the leather on the seats. The truck is a family vehicle and with a wife and 2 little ones, cleaning up leather is a hell of a lot easier than upholstery.