2026 Ford F-350 vs 2025 Ford F-350: Complete comparison guide | Pilson Ford of Clinton
Ford refines its dominant heavy-duty pickup with strategic updates for 2026. The 2026 Ford F-350 introduces the comprehensive Lariat Premium Package, enhanced package availability including STX on dual rear wheel configurations, and the return of the SuperCab 6.75-foot bed combination for maximum versatility. Building on the proven 2025 foundation that delivers class-leading towing up to 40,000 pounds and payload capacity reaching 8,000 pounds, both model years offer unmatched capability for Clinton, IN and Terre Haute work truck buyers. This detailed comparison reveals which F-350 provides optimal power, technology, and value for demanding commercial applications and serious towing needs.
Table of Contents
- ❓ FAQ: Quick answers to Ford F-350 comparison questions
- ⚡ Quick comparison: 2026 vs 2025 at a glance
- 🏁 2026 Ford F-350 overview: Enhanced package availability
- ⭐ 2025 Ford F-350 review: Proven Super Duty excellence
- ⚖️ 2026 vs 2025 Ford F-350: Head-to-head comparison
- 📊 2026 Ford F-350 specifications and features breakdown
- 💰 2026 vs 2025 Ford F-350 pricing analysis
- 🤔 Which Ford F-350 should you buy: 2026 or 2025?
- 🚗 Ford F-350 capability and real-world performance
- 🏪 Find your Ford F-350 at Pilson Ford of Clinton
FAQ: Quick answers to Ford F-350 comparison questions
Quick comparison: 2026 vs 2025 Ford F-350 at a glance
| Feature | 2025 F-350 | 2026 F-350 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Gas Engine | 6.8L V8: 405 HP / 445 lb-ft | 6.8L V8: 405 HP / 445 lb-ft | Unchanged |
| 7.3L Godzilla V8 | 430 HP / 485 lb-ft | 430 HP / 485 lb-ft | Unchanged |
| Power Stroke Diesel HO | 500 HP / 1,200 lb-ft | 500 HP / 1,200 lb-ft | Unchanged |
| Lariat Premium Package | Not available | New bundled package | Crew Cab 4x4 w/ 7.3L V8 |
| STX on DRW | Not available | Now available | Expanded availability |
| SuperCab Short Box | Not available | Returns for 2026 | 6.75-foot bed option |
| Max Towing | 40,000 lbs gooseneck | 40,000 lbs gooseneck | Identical |
| Starting Price | $46,595 | $46,970 (est.) | ~$375 increase |
2026 Ford F-350 overview: Enhanced package availability
The 2026 Ford F-350 refines Ford's dominant Super Duty platform with strategic package updates that enhance versatility and technology integration. The flagship addition introduces the comprehensive Lariat Premium Package, bundling the most requested features into a single convenient option that appeals to Clinton and Terre Haute contractors and fleet buyers seeking advanced towing technology without custom ordering complexity.
Key specifications and features summary
The 2026 F-350 maintains the proven engine lineup that defines heavy-duty dominance. The standard 6.8L V8 produces 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft torque, providing robust capability for basic work truck applications. The legendary 7.3L Godzilla V8 delivers 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft torque, offering naturally aspirated power ideal for fleets preferring gasoline simplicity.
Power Stroke diesel buyers choose between standard output producing 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft torque, or the class-leading High Output variant generating 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft torque—the most powerful heavy-duty diesel available. All engines pair with Ford's proven TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission featuring selectable drive modes optimized for towing, hauling, and fuel economy.
Lariat Premium Package details
The Lariat Premium Package represents the most significant 2026 update, available exclusively on Lariat Crew Cab 4x4 models equipped with the 7.3L V8 engine. This strategic bundle combines Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 driver assistance suite, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and Trailer Reverse Guidance—features previously requiring separate option packages or higher trim levels.
The package includes platform running boards for improved cab access, power-sliding rear glass with defrost and privacy tinting, and integrated trailer camera preparation. This comprehensive bundle addresses contractor feedback demanding simplified ordering while reducing build complexity for Clinton and Terre Haute area commercial buyers managing fleet standardization.
Expanded configuration availability
The 2026 F-350 reintroduces the SuperCab configuration with 6.75-foot bed, addressing market demand for maneuverable work trucks maintaining substantial cargo capacity. This wheelbase combination balances urban jobsite navigation with practical bed length suitable for construction materials and equipment transport.
Ford expands the popular STX Appearance Package to dual rear wheel configurations, delivering body-color bumpers, painted grille, distinctive badging, and premium interior enhancements to dually buyers seeking contemporary styling. Standard tire pressure monitoring system with trailer coverage across all trims enhances safety awareness during heavy towing operations common in commercial applications.
2025 Ford F-350 review: Proven Super Duty excellence
The 2025 Ford F-350 represents the refined evolution of Ford's heavy-duty leadership, offering comprehensive capability with simplified trim structure. Ford streamlined the lineup while maintaining essential features across XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, and Platinum trims—each calibrated for specific buyer needs from basic work truck to luxury towing machine.
2025 Ford F-350 specifications breakdown
The 2025 model introduced improved engine availability with the base 6.8L V8 becoming standard on XLT and Lariat trims, democratizing access to adequate power without diesel premium. King Ranch and Platinum gained access to Pro Power Onboard generator capability, while Onboard Scale system became optional on King Ranch for payload monitoring without external scales.
Ford restricted SuperCab availability to XL and XLT trims with eight-foot bed only, simplifying production while focusing SuperCab sales toward work truck buyers. The Platinum gained Black Onyx interior treatment with Platinum Blue accents, while the new Platinum Plus package introduced chrome trim and exclusive leather colors, consolidating features previously offered on discontinued Limited trim.
Powertrain options and capability
The 2025 F-350's standard 6.8L V8 provides 405 horsepower and 445 lb-ft torque—adequate for conventional towing up to 20,000 pounds and basic work truck duty. The 7.3L Godzilla V8 delivers 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft torque with proven reliability favored by fleets avoiding diesel complexity and maintenance requirements.
The 6.7L Power Stroke diesel dominates heavy towing applications, offering standard output with 475 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft torque capable of towing 38,000 pounds fifth wheel. High Output Power Stroke produces 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft torque, enabling maximum 40,000-pound gooseneck towing capacity that rivals Class 4 commercial trucks.
Cab and bed configurations
Regular cab with eight-foot bed provides maximum payload capacity exceeding 7,500 pounds with proper configuration, ideal for utility body upfitting and commercial fleet applications. SuperCab eight-foot bed balances extended cab utility with cargo capacity, while Crew Cab offers choice of 6.75-foot or eight-foot beds depending on parking requirements and cargo needs.
Single rear wheel configurations maintain standard truck width for easier maneuvering while providing payload capacity exceeding 4,600 pounds. Dual rear wheel models deliver maximum stability with heavy trailers and payload capacity reaching 8,000 pounds with optimal specification including regular cab and heavy-duty payload package.
2026 vs 2025 Ford F-350: Head-to-head comparison
Direct comparison reveals strategic refinement rather than wholesale redesign, with the 2026 model building on proven 2025 capability through improved package availability and technology integration targeting commercial buyers.
Trim level comparison table
| Trim Level | 2025 | 2026 | Available Configurations |
|---|---|---|---|
| XL | ✓ | ✓ | All cabs, SRW/DRW, 2WD/4WD |
| XLT | ✓ | ✓ | All cabs, SRW/DRW, 2WD/4WD |
| Lariat | ✓ | ✓ w/ Premium Pkg | Crew Cab only, SRW/DRW |
| King Ranch | ✓ | ✓ | Crew Cab only, SRW/DRW |
| Platinum | ✓ | ✓ | Crew Cab only, SRW/DRW |
Engine performance and capability comparison
Both model years offer identical engine specifications with no horsepower or torque changes. The 6.8L V8 maintains 405 horsepower sufficient for basic work truck duty, while the 7.3L Godzilla delivers 430 horsepower favored by fleets. Power Stroke diesel continues dominating heavy towing with standard 475 horsepower and high-output 500 horsepower configurations.
Towing capacity remains unchanged with maximum 40,000-pound gooseneck rating achievable with Power Stroke High Output diesel in optimal configuration. Fifth-wheel towing reaches 35,000 pounds, while conventional towing maxes at 30,000 pounds—all figures maintaining Ford's class-leading position unchanged between model years.
Technology and towing feature comparison
| Towing Feature | 2025 Availability | 2026 Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Trailer Hitch Assist | Optional Higher Trims | Lariat Premium Package |
| Pro Trailer Backup Assist | Optional Higher Trims | Lariat Premium Package |
| Trailer Reverse Guidance | Optional Higher Trims | Lariat Premium Package |
| Onboard Scales | Optional King Ranch | Optional King Ranch |
| Trailer Tire Pressure Monitor | Optional | Standard All Trims |
| Smart Trailer Tow Connector | Standard All Trims | Standard All Trims |
| 360-Degree Camera | Optional Higher Trims | Optional Higher Trims |
Package and appearance updates
The 2026 F-350 expands STX Appearance Package availability to dual rear wheel models, delivering body-color bumpers, painted grille, and distinctive badging to dually buyers previously limited to chrome or base trim appearance. This addresses contractor demand for contemporary styling on maximum-capacity configurations used in commercial applications.
New exterior colors for 2026 include Argon Blue Metallic and Marsh Gray Metallic, while discontinued shades from 2025 rotate out of the palette. The Tremor off-road package gains availability with standard-output Power Stroke diesel, expanding accessible off-road capability beyond previous high-output diesel or gasoline-only restrictions.
2026 Ford F-350 specifications and features breakdown
Detailed engine specifications
| Specification | 6.8L V8 Gas | 7.3L V8 Gas | 6.7L Diesel HO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6.8L (415 cu in) | 7.3L (445 cu in) | 6.7L (406 cu in) |
| Horsepower | 405 HP @ 5,500 RPM | 430 HP @ 5,500 RPM | 500 HP @ 2,800 RPM |
| Torque | 445 lb-ft @ 3,800 RPM | 485 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM | 1,200 lb-ft @ 1,800 RPM |
| Configuration | OHV V8 | OHV V8 | OHV Turbo Diesel V8 |
| Transmission | 10-speed TorqShift | 10-speed TorqShift | 10-speed TorqShift |
| Max Towing (5th Wheel) | 20,000 lbs | 24,000 lbs | 35,000 lbs |
| Max Towing (Gooseneck) | 21,000 lbs | 25,800 lbs | 40,000 lbs |
Standard features by trim level
| Feature | XL | XLT | Lariat | King Ranch | Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating Material | Vinyl | Cloth | Leather-Trim | King Ranch Leather | Quilted Leather |
| Heated Front Seats | — | Optional | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Ventilated Front Seats | — | — | Optional | ✓ | ✓ |
| SYNC 4 Display | 8-inch | 8-inch | 12-inch | 12-inch | 12-inch |
| B&O Sound System | — | — | Optional | ✓ | ✓ |
| Pro Power Onboard | — | — | Optional | Optional | Optional |
2026 vs 2025 Ford F-350 pricing analysis
| Trim Level | 2025 MSRP | 2026 MSRP (Est.) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| XL Regular Cab 2WD | $46,595 | $46,970 | +$375 |
| XL Regular Cab 4WD | $49,395 | $49,770 | +$375 |
| XLT SuperCab 4WD | $55,495 | $55,870 | +$375 |
| Lariat Crew Cab 4WD | $68,295 | $68,670 | +$375 |
| King Ranch Crew Cab 4WD | $75,745 | $76,120 | +$375 |
| Platinum Crew Cab 4WD | $81,095 | $81,470 | +$375 |
| XL Crew Cab Diesel 4WD | $62,195 | $62,570 | +$375 |
| Lariat Crew Cab Diesel 4WD | $78,895 | $79,270 | +$375 |
Value analysis across trim levels
The 2026 F-350's modest $375 price increase across trims reflects minimal base specification changes beyond standard trailer tire pressure monitoring and revised package availability. For Clinton and Terre Haute commercial buyers, the enhanced Lariat Premium Package justifies potential additional expenditure through bundled features requiring separate options on 2025 models.
XL and XLT trims maintain exceptional work truck value, offering proven capability without luxury amenities that complicate fleet maintenance. Lariat delivers optimal balance between comfort and cost for owner-operators, while King Ranch and Platinum appeal to buyers demanding premium materials with maximum towing capability.
Which Ford F-350 should you buy: 2026 or 2025?
The decision between model years depends on priorities regarding latest package availability versus value pricing, with both offering exceptional capability defining heavy-duty truck dominance.
Choose the 2026 Ford F-350 for:
Lariat Premium Package availability
Comprehensive bundle includes Pro Trailer Hitch Assist, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, Trailer Reverse Guidance, and Ford Co-Pilot360 2.0 in single convenient package eliminating separate option complexity.
Expanded configuration options
SuperCab short bed returns for improved maneuverability maintaining practical cargo capacity, while STX package gains dual rear wheel availability delivering contemporary styling to maximum capacity configurations.
Standard trailer tire monitoring
Trailer tire pressure monitoring system standard across all trims enhances safety during heavy towing operations critical for commercial applications and serious recreational hauling.
Latest connectivity options
Enhanced Ford Connectivity Package with seven-year purchase option provides extended Wi-Fi hotspot, connected navigation, and audio streaming for fleet management and personal use.
Choose the 2025 Ford F-350 for:
Better immediate pricing
End-of-model-year incentives and dealer discounts can reduce 2025 transaction prices significantly below MSRP, potentially saving thousands on identical capability.
Proven production quality
The 2025 model benefits from full production year experience with any early issues identified and resolved through technical service bulletins and running changes.
Immediate inventory availability
Larger dealer stock provides better selection of configurations, cab styles, and engine options without factory order wait times at Pilson Ford of Clinton.
Identical core capability
Class-leading 40,000-pound towing, 8,000-pound payload, Power Stroke High Output diesel, and proven TorqShift transmission remain unchanged between model years.
Ford F-350 capability and real-world performance
The F-350 excels at its primary mission: maximum towing and payload capacity with unmatched versatility surpassing competing heavy-duty trucks from Ram and Chevrolet/GMC.
Towing and payload capability
Equipped with Power Stroke High Output diesel and proper configuration, the F-350 achieves 40,000-pound gooseneck towing capacity—matching Class 4 commercial trucks while maintaining standard pickup truck registration and licensing. Fifth-wheel capacity reaches 35,000 pounds, while conventional towing maxes at 30,000 pounds with weight-distributing hitch.
Payload capacity peaks at 8,000 pounds with regular cab, single rear wheel, and Heavy-Duty Payload Package—sufficient for utility body upfitting and commercial equipment installation. Crew cab dual rear wheel configurations maintain payload exceeding 6,000 pounds while providing comfortable crew transportation.
Real-world fuel economy
Power Stroke diesel achieves 15-17 MPG combined in real-world driving, with highway economy reaching 20 MPG unloaded. Under heavy load towing near capacity, economy drops to 8-10 MPG depending on terrain and wind resistance. The 7.3L Godzilla V8 delivers 12-14 MPG combined, dropping to 6-8 MPG when towing heavy trailers.
Ride quality and handling
The F-350's heavy-duty suspension delivers firm ride quality when unloaded, optimized for payload and towing stability rather than passenger car comfort. Under load, the suspension settles providing controlled ride quality managing heavy trailers with confidence. Single rear wheel configurations maintain standard truck width simplifying parking and maneuvering compared to dual rear wheel models.
TorqShift 10-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts and optimal gear selection for towing, with dedicated Tow/Haul mode adjusting shift points and exhaust braking for trailer control. Electronic trailer brake controller integrates seamlessly with truck systems for coordinated braking managing heavy loads.
Find your Ford F-350 at Pilson Ford of Clinton
Whether you choose the enhanced 2026 Ford F-350 with Lariat Premium Package or value-focused 2025 model, Pilson Ford of Clinton provides the expertise and service excellence that makes your heavy-duty truck ownership experience exceptional. Our Clinton, Indiana location serves contractors and fleet buyers throughout Western Indiana and Eastern Illinois, including Terre Haute, Mattoon, Charleston, and surrounding communities.
The Pilson Advantage ensures your complete satisfaction:
- Car washes for life - Keep your F-350 looking professional with complimentary monthly washes throughout ownership
- "Never left stranded" loaner program - Stay mobile with courtesy vehicles during service appointments
- Best price guarantee - We'll beat any legitimate competitor offer or provide a 7-night luxury resort getaway
- Certified pre-owned guarantee - 30-day, 1,500-mile mechanical guarantee on qualified pre-owned vehicles
- Express service - Convenient maintenance without appointments for routine service needs
Our factory-trained technicians specialize in Ford Super Duty service and maintenance, utilizing genuine Motorcraft parts to preserve your truck's capability, reliability, and warranty coverage. From routine maintenance to Power Stroke diesel service, trust your commercial investment to the certified professionals at Pilson Ford of Clinton.
Ready to find your perfect Ford F-350?
Explore our comprehensive new and used inventory, discover financing options tailored to Clinton and Terre Haute area commercial buyers, and schedule your test drive today. Our knowledgeable sales team will help you compare both model years and find the F-350 configuration that perfectly matches your towing needs and budget.
Contact Pilson Ford of Clinton today and discover why the Ford F-350 Super Duty remains America's best-selling heavy-duty truck, delivering unmatched capability and innovation for serious work and towing applications.