As Ford’s all-electric pickup truck hits its 5th year of production, the company is introducing some changes with a new entry-level trim. The 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX, which takes a ride from the gas F-150’s gas-powered STX trim, is a more rugged-styled, off-road-capable truck that adds some personality to the Lightning lineup without an added cost from a base price perspective. For buyers seeking rugged style without sacrificing electric performance, the new STX trim is a great option for the 2026 Lightning.
Out With XLT, In With STX
To add the STX, Ford eliminated the Lightning XLT trim. While there will be longtime fans of the XLT trim that are disappointed by this change, Ford kept the entry pricing the same: $65,540. In fact, that number is the same as the outgoing XLT’s MSRP, even with the STX trim adding the extra new equipment and distinct styling to the Lightning. The Ford F-150 Lightning Electric Pro was available for only $32,474, which was a crazy deal at the time. Right now, the price point of the Lighting STX feels like a world away.
When comparing the F-150 gas-powered STX trim, which starts at $58,890 with the FX4 package and attached to the 5.0-litre V8, the electric STX costs only $6,650 extra. But, operating costs are a different story with the EPA report showing it will cost truck owners about $1,400 more a year to fuel the V8 as compared to charging the Lightning STX. Over time, the cost difference can definitely tip the scales in favor of the electric truck, ownership-wise.
Rugged Looks and New Colors
Buyers will see that it has very unique ‘STX’ graphics with blue accents, plus they also got 3 new paint colors for 2026: Argon Blue, Marsh Gray, and Ruby Red Metallic. Each color carries a charge, but gives customers additional options to personalize their truck.
The STX also has an all-new grille that has a very distinctive blue accent line that will differentiate it from all other Lightning trims. Two Tremor running boards are also standard, which add function and ruggedness.
Trail-Oriented Hardware, Designed for Dirt
Ford didn’t just apply decals to the STX—meaningful mechanical improvements were made, too. The STX rolls on Goodyear Wrangler Territory AT tires, which indicates a clear intent for off-road capability, but still retains the 275/65R18 sizing. They also adorn the matte-black 18-inch aluminum wheels of the outgoing XLT.
Powering this STX is a standard dual-motor arrangement that produces a combined 536 horsepower and a staggering 775 lb-ft of torque. This arrangement will now have an electronically locking rear axle, the same option that required choosing the Max Trailer Tow package on the Lightning. The Lightning STX will come standard with an extended-range battery, allowing for an estimated 290 miles, keeping owners making non-stop plans for work and weekends.
A Usable Cabin
Inside, the STX finds a balance of durability and subtlety. The base seating is black cloth with Grabber Blue stitching, as well as embroidered “Lightning STX” logos on the front seats. Ford also offers a vinyl floor, which might be beneficial for a driver who has tractor tires on the back and knows that inevitably, dirt and mud will fill that truck. A vinyl floor is a little better than a carpet and easier to clean.
The interior also has a few luxury features that were absent from the previous XLT: a heated steering wheel, which is included standard, is apparently a minor detail, but for many buyers, drivers in cooler climates in particular, is a really nice extra.
Timelines and Order Information
Ford has begun taking orders for the 2026 F-150 Lightning STX, and delivery will begin in early 2026. The STX is the new entry-level Lightning truck, and it is targeted at truck shoppers looking for a more rugged truck. As a combination of affordability, the ‘performance’ aspect of EV pickup trucks, and off-road styling, the STX could be one of the more popular Lightning trims.
By offering the combination of affordability, performance, and appearance in an off-road pickup truck package, the 2026 Ford F-150 Lightning STX is a reminder that electric pickups are more about capability and personality than efficiency.
