2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew XLT PowerBoost Review

A Practical Workhorse, But I’d Still Opt for the Lariat

By Chris Chung

After spending time last month with the 2024 Ford F-150 Lariat PowerBoost, I walked away seriously impressed by how Ford managed to blend rugged capability with real interior comfort and modern tech. So, when I got the keys to the 2025 Ford F-150 SuperCrew XLT PowerBoost, I was curious to see how the more affordable version of Ford’s hybrid full-size pickup would stack up.

At first glance, the XLT doesn’t scream “luxury,” but that’s not the point. It’s still a fully capable truck — powered by the same hybrid powertrain, backed by the same aluminum body and chassis tech, and boasting much of the same core equipment. The difference? It’s $10,000 less expensive. So where do you feel that difference?

Familiar Power, Proven Hybrid Performance

Let’s start under the hood. The XLT comes with the 3.5L PowerBoost™ Full Hybrid V6, just like the Lariat. You get 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission that shifts seamlessly and keeps the powerband smooth. I put the truck through both highway and backroad driving, and I can confirm — the power is still all there.

Towing and payload capabilities are nearly identical. With the Trailer Tow Package, this truck is rated for up to 12,700 pounds of towing. That’s no joke — whether you’re pulling a boat, trailer, or work rig, the XLT gets it done without flinching. And thanks to the hybrid system, it does it with 23 MPG combined, making it one of the most efficient full-size 4x4 trucks on the road.

Exterior & Functional Design

The XLT looks the part. This particular unit was optioned with the FX4 Off-Road Package, which includes off-road-tuned shocks, skid plates, hill descent control, and a locking rear differential. It also had the Bed Utility Package, Pro Power Onboard (7.2 kW) — an absolute game-changer if you're powering tools or camping gear — and running boards that are as helpful as they are tough.

The updated front fascia on the 2025 model gives the XLT a bolder look, and although it doesn’t have the chrome accents or LED lighting signatures of higher trims, it still looks solid on the road. It's a full-size pickup that earns its presence without shouting.

Interior: The Budget Trade-Offs

This is where you feel the XLT’s lower price point compared to the Lariat. While the Lariat was appointed with leather-trimmed seats, ambient lighting, and a generally more upscale feel, the XLT cabin is straightforward and practical. Cloth seats come standard, and while they’re comfortable and durable, they just don’t have the same premium touch.

However, you still get Ford’s SYNC 4 system with a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a large digital driver display, and dual-zone climate control. This particular model had the Mobile Office Package, which includes a fold-down center console workspace — a great touch for anyone using the truck as a mobile workstation.

One thing I missed in the XLT was the interior refinement. There’s more visible plastic, fewer soft-touch materials, and less of that “wrapped” feeling you get in the Lariat. But again — this truck isn’t meant to coddle; it’s meant to work.

Driving Experience: Still a Smooth Operator

Even with the simpler cabin, the driving experience remains solid. The ride quality is excellent, especially for a body-on-frame truck. The hybrid system smooths out acceleration, and the 10-speed transmission always seems to be in the right gear. Handling is predictable, and even though it's a tall, heavy truck, body roll is minimal and visibility is great from the driver’s seat.

Thanks to the hybrid’s regenerative braking, stops feel more controlled, and the truck always feels composed — even with a load in the bed or passengers in the back.

Feature Highlights

A few of my favorite features on this XLT:

Pro Power Onboard (7.2 kW) — Essentially turns the truck into a mobile generator

FX4 Off-Road Package — Real off-road capability, especially with the locking diff and hill descent control

Mobile Office Workspace — Genuinely useful if you work from the field

Power tailgate and tailgate step — Underrated everyday usability

Final Thoughts: Worth the $10K Savings?

At the end of the day, the 2025 F-150 SuperCrew XLT PowerBoost is a phenomenal truck for buyers who value function over finish. You still get the same hybrid performance, same towing ability, and much of the same tech as the higher trims — just in a more barebones package.

That said, after having experienced the Lariat just a month earlier, I’ll be honest: I’d spend the extra $10,000 for the upgrades. The leather, the additional driver assistance tech, the quieter cabin, and the premium materials made a difference in daily comfort and usability.

If your budget’s tight or you’re looking for a more fleet-friendly truck, the XLT is an outstanding value. But for my money, the Lariat still feels like the smarter long-term buy.

Chris Score: 92/100