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Buying the most popular truck in America can be challenging. There are many different trim levels to choose from, and many are expensive. However, a few versions of the 2022 Ford F-150 are much more affordable than others. If you’re not interested in cheaper F-150s, there’s always the $63,100 Platinum trim or the $77,625 Limited model. Only two Ford F-150 trims start under $40,000, the XL and XLT.

The cheapest 2022 Ford F-150 trim

Front view of five 2023 Ford F-150 Heritage Edition pickup trucks, highlighting the release date and price
2023 Ford F-150 | Ford

If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get a 2022 Ford F-150, it’s the XL model. According to Ford, the base model starts at $31,520. It’s by far the cheapest version, as even the XLT is thousands of dollars more. Is this version of the most popular truck too basic, or is it worth the smaller price?

According to Edmunds, every F-150 XL comes with fundamental features. For example, 17-inch steel wheels, trailer sway control with pre-wired connections, manual mirrors and windows, single-zone air conditioning, and vinyl flooring. Moreover, some technology is included as well. Things like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an eight-inch touchscreen are standard.

Furthermore, even the base F-150 comes with a few safety features. With the XL trim, owners get lane departure warning and forward collision mitigation.

How much is an F-150 XLT?

A Black 2022 Ford F-150 Towing at night; this is the best-selling truck in the market
2022 Ford F-150 Towing | Ford

According to the automaker, the XLT trim remains under $40,000, starting at $39,165. However, with no other extras and destination charges added, the price exceeds $40,000. For a basic XLT model with nothing else, buyers will pay $40,960. Ford advertises the cost as under $40,000, so we’ll stick with it for now. This version brings the 2022 Ford F-150 into modern times with basic amenities not found in the XL trim.

First, instead of steel wheels, the XLT model gains aluminum wheels. Next, simple things like foglights, carpeted floors, cruise control, power locks and windows, a power-locking tailgate, and front-seat lumbar adjustments make the F-150 feel much less basic. Finally, the XLT version keeps the same safety equipment as the XL trim but gains even more.

Every F-150 XLT comes with blind-spot monitor, automatic rear braking, and lane-keeping assist. Combined with lane departure warning and forward collision mitigation, this version of the F-150 is well-equipped with safety items.

Which F-150 under $40,000 is better?

The choice is easy if you’re going back and forth between one of these 2022 Ford F-150 models. Buying the XL is fine if you’re strapped for cash and can’t afford anything else. Getting a base model F-150 will still get you decent towing and hauling capability and a truck that can go from point A to point B. However, it has almost nothing else to offer.

While basic standard features like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a few safety features make the XL decent, it just can’t touch the XLT. Opting for an XLT model is the right move if it’s in your budget. You’ll get nicer wheels, floors, better tech, and power windows/locks, like all great trucks in the 21st century. Buying an XL model is only OK if you require a work truck or a very basic daily driver.

In conclusion, only two Ford F-150 trims start under $40,000. They are the 2022 Ford F-150 XL and XLT. Buying either of these models gets you a basic version of the most popular truck in America. However, the XLT is the better choice, as it has much more modern features.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.