The current Ford F-150 pickup can be ordered in all sorts of trims. Each one is supposedly unique and offers plenty of features to make driving and hauling easier and more fun for pickup truck lovers everywhere. However, it can take a lot of time to figure out which one has exactly what you need.

The good news is, Car and Driver did most of the research. With their testing and data collection, they came up with one trim package that stands out a bit above the rest in usefulness. They chose the Lariat Supercrew as the one to check out for this model year. Let’s look at why they felt this trim level was the go-to package for the F-150 truck.

Why is the Ford F-150 Lariat the best option?

Car and Driver felt the mid-level Lariat Supercrew offered the most flexibility among all the trim levels of the Ford F-150. Having a standard twin-turbo V6 engine running 325 hp is plenty of vigor to do any job you need to be done. Ford’s choice of motor for this trim level is a 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine that has a port-fuel direct-injection system. Paired with it is a 10-speed automatic transmission designed to improve performance and enhance acceleration.

The Lariat’s bed comes in three different lengths. The shorter 5.5-ft. box, the mid-size 6.5 ft bed, and the 8.0-ft box are the options to choose from. For the most value, Car and Driver recommended their larger cargo bed length, which measures 97.6 inches long. This allows for the most space available for your storage needs. Plus, you get four standard tie-down hooks to keep whatever you’re hauling safe and secure.

Standard features of the Lariat

The Ford F-150 Lariat has plenty of standard features right out of the gate. The exterior styling includes chrome bumpers, halogen fog lamps and headlamps, power-folding side mirrors, and LED box lighting. You’ll also get automatic lamps, tie-down hooks, power tailgate locks, underframe spare tire carriers, and their Easy fuel capless fuel filler.

The interior has even more impressive features. Car and Driver mentions the Lariat’s seats. The front seats are heated/cooled and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable. They also have the infotainment system in the checklist of useful features. It comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The Lariat also has a productivity screen display that allows you to see what’s going on with towing, tire pressure monitoring and many other useful bits of information, with just a glance.

Lariat’s upgrade options

Ford lists many features that you can opt for when purchasing your truck. If you’re looking for a bit more power under the hood, a few thousand dollars more and you can have their 375 hp engine with 470 lb-ft of torque. Pairing it with the all-wheel-drive option would be necessary when driving in wintry conditions. Other options for exterior styling include box side steps, side mirror spotlights, and power deployable running boards.

Steering upgrades make your ride more comfortable. The heated steering wheel will help on the cold morning commutes while a power tilt option enables you to handle the steering with ease during longer rides. You can also choose a 360-degree camera with a split-view display and a trailer backup assist to help avoid any accidents when backing up.

Of all the trim level packages Ford offers with its F-150 truck, Car and Driver felt the Lariat has the most versatility and offers the most value. With all the standard features and the plethora of options to help you customize your pickup purchase, you can’t go wrong with the Lariat Supercrew.