Ford just gave buyers what they have finally been asking for: More range without the higher price tag. The new 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX delivers just that.
The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX packs more for less
The F-150 Lightning retook the title of America’s top-selling pickup from the Tesla Cybertruck earlier this year, widening its lead over the past few months.
For the 2026 model year, Ford is upping the ante and giving buyers what they want. Ford introduced a new STX trim for the 2026 F-150 Lightning lineup, a new entry-level model, but with more range.
The new variant replaces the current XLT model and brings some serious upgrades. Powered by dual electric motors, one on the front and the other mounted on the rear, the electric truck packs 536 horsepower (up from 452 hp in the outgoing XLT) and 775 lb-ft of torque. Not bad for an entry-level model.
It also features the larger, 123 kWh extended range battery, delivering an EPA-estimated 290 miles of range. That’s up from the 240 miles in the outgoing XLT model that used a 98 kWh battery pack.
Ford didn’t stop at that. It also raided the F-150 parts bin for some off-road upgrades. The new F-150 Lightning variant features off-road running boards from the Tremor, plus new wheels and all-terrain tires.
It still has the classic F-150 pickup look, but the STX gains a fresh new grille design and hood graphics to help it stand out.
On the inside, the new variant features STX embroidered seats and a standard heated steering wheel, you know, for those long Michigan winters (or anywhere nowadays, it seems).
You can choose from several new exterior color options, including Argon Blue, Marsh Gray, and a Ruby Red Metallic Clearcoat.
Despite the upgrades, the new STX model will still have an MSRP of $63,345, the same as the outgoing XLT. Ford expects the STX variant to be one of the top-selling Lightning models next year. It will begin arriving at Ford dealerships across the US in early 2026.
With the 2026 model arriving soon, Ford is offering a few deals on current Lightning models you might be interested in. The 2025 F-150 Lightning XLT is listed for lease starting at just $258 per month right now. You can use our link to find offers on the Ford F-150 Lightning near you (trusted affiliate link).
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