The Ford F-150 is the best-selling vehicle in the United States and globally. For the 2022 model year, not much has changed with design or features. A 3.0-liter diesel engine is no longer available, and a new Black Appearance package is now available on select models. Other than that, none of the 2022 Ford F-150 trims have changed much. The Ford F-150 is highly versatile, with eight different trim levels available. The XLT trim costs about $6,000 more than the base XL. But is the upgrade worth the extra cash?

F-150 XL base model standard features

For 2022, even the most affordable F-150 comes with a surprising amount of excellent features. Starting at $39,395, customers get 17-inch steel wheels, trailer sway control, pre-wired trailer connections, and vinyl flooring. Each F-150 XL has an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability, and single-zone air conditioning. While it’s undoubtedly no Limited trim, the F-150 XL is capable and provides everything a truck owner could want for a reasonable price.

Furthermore, there are a few safety features included with every base model. Things like lane departure warning and forward collision mitigation make the base model F-150 a surprisingly well-equipped and safe pickup truck.

The 2022 Ford F-150 XLT adds even more

Those who choose to upgrade to the F-150 XLT receive many more features. On top of the included items in the base model, XLT owners gain foglights, carpeted flooring, cruise control, power door locks and power windows, a power locking tailgate, front-seat lumbar adjustments, and more. Safety equipment also gains more features. Items like a blind-spot monitor, automatic rear braking, and lane-keeping assist enter the lineup with the XLT trim.

Of course, the XLT is much more expensive with all those extras. More specifically, it’s $6,000 more than the base XL model. Customers have to pay $45,085 for the 2022 Ford F-150 XLT, according to Edmunds. Are the additional features worth all the extra cash?

Stick with the XL base model or jump to the Lariat trim

Overall, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lariat is Edmunds’ recommended trim level. Citing a reasonable cost, the reviewer recommends it because it gains a larger infotainment screen, additional safety features, leather upholstery, and more convenience items. Overall, it’s a better value than the XLT trim, for only $52,195. Unfortunately, that’s another $7,000 more than the XLT trim and around $12,000 more than the base model.

If you’re looking to buy an affordable 2022 Ford F-150, stick with the XL base model. Compared to the XLT trim, it has the same capability and doesn’t miss out on much. We don’t think items like foglights, a power locking tailgate, power locks and windows, front-seat lumbar, and carpeted flooring are worth $6,000. Either stick with the base model or take the extra step into an F-150 Lariat. Ford’s trim level between these two is a “worst of both worlds” scenario.

Is the upgrade worth it?

Overall, the upgrade to the 2022 Ford F-150 XLT from the XL base model isn’t worth the extra cash. Depending on how you will use the truck, it could be essential for some people to get those additional features. However, we think if you want to save money, get the base model. The Lariat trim provides far more value if you’re willing to spend a little extra for more features. The decision is yours, but the best bang for your buck options are the XL and Lariat trim levels.