Meet the 2026 F‑150 Lightning STX

Ford has introduced the STX trim for its full‑electric F‑150 Lightning line for the 2026 model year. It replaces the outgoing XLT trim, offering more rugged styling, additional capability, and a notable jump in battery range — all while keeping the price nearly the same. 

What’s New & Upgraded in the 2026 F‑150 Lightning STX 

The 2026 F-150 Lightning STX brings a host of upgrades over the outgoing XLT trim, starting with a significantly larger 123 kWh extended-range battery, now standard. This boosts the estimated driving range to about 290 miles, a noticeable improvement over the XLT’s 240-mile average. Alongside the larger battery, the STX gets a power upgrade with a dual-motor setup delivering 536 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque — making it feel more capable both on and off the pavement. 

For those who venture beyond the road, Ford has added practical off-road features like a standard rear electronic locking differential, grippy all-terrain tires, and rugged running boards inspired by the F-150 Tremor. While it doesn’t get full off-road suspension upgrades, these additions give the STX more capability and confidence for light trail use or rough job sites. 

Visually, the STX stands out with a bold new front grille accented in Grabber Blue, unique hood and side graphics, dark 20-inch wheels, and several new exterior color options, including Argon Blue, Marsh Gray, and Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. Inside, the cabin balances durability and comfort with cloth seats featuring STX embroidery, a heated steering wheel as standard, and optional black vinyl flooring — perfect for work trucks or weekend adventurers. 

Perhaps the most impressive part is that all of these upgrades come at no extra cost compared to the trim it replaces. With a starting MSRP of around $63,345, the STX delivers more capability, style, and range without inflating the price — a rare move in today’s truck market. 

Price & Value 

The starting MSRP for the Lightning STX is about US$63,345, which is roughly the same as the 2025 XLT that it replaces. So Ford is giving more capability and style without asking more money. Deliveries are expected in early 2026.  

Where It Shines 

• For buyers who want more range without paying extra, STX is a strong value play. The jump in battery size and range is meaningful.  
• Rugged style touches (all‑terrain tires, running boards, graphics) give it a tougher look straight from the factory — less need for aftermarket add‑ons.  
• Practical interior features like optional vinyl floors and a heated steering wheel make sense for real‑world use.  

How It Fits into the Lightning Lineup 

The STX sits between the Pro (the basic, most work‑oriented trim) and the more upscale trims like Flash, Lariat, Platinum, etc. It’s intended to replace XLT for buyers who want more style, more range, and more off‑road flavor without moving up into the more expensive trims.  

Bottom Line 

The 2026 F‑150 Lightning STX is Ford listening to feedback: more range, tougher style, better capability, all for the same money compared to what customers were paying for the previous mid‑trim. For many buyers, it’s going to hit a sweet spot — an EV pickup that looks rugged, has more usable range, and feels like it has been upgraded beyond “base” without a big price jump. If you’re considering an electric truck and want something more than basic, the STX looks like a very strong option.