2026 Ford F-150 Lightning First Look: Adds Tough New Entry-Level Model
Ford offers the Lightning with an STX package, borrowing elements and naming cues from the gas-powered F-150, all at a relatively affordable price.
As the Ford F-150 Lightning enters its fifth year of production with the 2026 model, the truck receives a notable update. Responding to customer demand for a more “rugged” version, Ford introduces the STX trim, which also becomes the new entry-level option for the all-electric 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning. The package adds off-road flair and updated styling while incorporating parts from one of Ford’s bestselling gas-powered pickups. The trade-off: one existing trim had to be discontinued to make room for the STX.
To make way for the 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX, the XLT trim has been discontinued. The good news is that the STX doesn’t raise the entry-level price, maintaining the XLT’s MSRP of $65,540 despite the additional features. While the gas-powered F-150 STX starts at a lower price, adding the FX4 package with the 5.0-liter V-8 is necessary to match the Lightning STX’s features—bringing the ICE STX FX4 to $58,890, only $6,650 less than the EV counterpart.
That price difference is quickly offset by fuel savings. According to the EPA, running the 5.0-liter V-8 costs roughly $1,400 more per year compared with charging the EV 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX. On top of that, the electric model delivers 136 more horsepower and 365 lb-ft more torque than the 400-hp, 410-lb-ft Coyote engine. Charging at home adds convenience, too, allowing drivers to start each day with a “full tank” while potentially lowering energy costs.
So what sets the 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX apart from the 2025 Lightning XLT beyond just badging? For starters, the STX gets a unique full decal package. “STX” graphics with blue accents on the hood and rear bedsides give it a distinct look, setting it apart from both other Lightning trims and the gas-powered STX. New paint options debut for 2026, including Argon Blue, Marsh Gray, and Ruby Red Metallic, though all three come at an additional cost. The front grille is also redesigned, featuring a blue accent line instead of the standard all-black finish found on other Lightning models.
Unlike the previous EV XLT and the standard ICE STX, the Lightning STX comes standard with a pair of Tremor running boards. The truck rolls on Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT tires instead of the Michelin Primacy XC, while keeping the 275/65R18 size mounted on matte-black 18-inch aluminum wheels from the Lightning XLT. Powering this setup is a standard dual-motor configuration, producing a combined 536 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque, and now includes a standard electronically locking rear axle. This e-locker is typically only available with the Max Trailer Tow package on other Lightnings or as a separate option on the ICE STX. Driving those motors is a standard extended-range battery pack, which Ford estimates provides up to 290 miles of range.
Inside, the 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX comes with all-black cloth seats accented by Grabber Blue stitching and “Lightning STX” embroidery on the front seats. A heated steering wheel is standard—something neither the 2025 Lightning XLT nor the ICE STX offer. For practicality, an optional black vinyl floor provides an easy-to-clean alternative to carpet, perfect for handling mud and dirt.
The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX is now available for order and is expected to arrive at dealerships in early 2026. If Ford’s projections hold true, this rugged new trim could become one of the more popular options in the all-electric F-150 lineup.
