Ford F-150 Lightning Vs. Ford F-150 Side-By-Side Comparison
As you're on the hunt for a new Ford pickup truck, the Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning comparison highlights two powerful but distinct choices. Understanding their differences will help you choose the pickup that drives your ambitions forward. This is your complete F-150 vs. Lightning comparison from the team at McGee Ford of Montpelier.
2025 Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning at a Glance
- The Ford F-150 is a full-size, gas-powered pickup truck, while the F-150 Lightning is an all-electric pickup.
- Due to its more robust setup, the F-150 boasts a higher towing capacity of up to 13,500 pounds,1 but the Lightning isn't far behind with a maximum 10,000-pound rating.1
- The F-150 offers greater versatility with three cab styles and three bed lengths, while the Lightning comes in a single SuperCrew configuration with a 5.5-foot bed.
- The Lightning delivers up to an EPA-estimated 320 miles of electric range,2 while the F-150 offers up to an EPA-estimated 23 MPG (Combined)3 with its PowerBoost Hybrid engine.
Gas vs. Electric Ford F-150 Specs
| 2025 Ford F-150 | 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning | |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain |
|
|
| Horsepower | 325 - 720 | 452 - 580 |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft to 640 lb-ft | 775 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | Single speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4x2 or 4x4 | 4x4 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 13,500 lbs1 | 10,000 lbs1 |
| Max Payload Capacity | 2,440 lbs4 | 2,329 lbs4 |
| Max EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Comb) | 22 / 24 / 233 | N / A |
| Max EPA-Est. Electric Range | N / A | 320 mi2 |
| Passenger Seating | 3 - 6 | 5 |
| Cargo Box Volume | 52.8 - 77.4 cu ft | 52.8 cu ft |
| Height | 75 - 79.8 in | 78.5 in |
| Length | 209.4 - 243.9 in | 232.7 in |
Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning Powertrain & Horsepower
Starting with the traditional gas-powered model, the 2025 Ford F-150 engine options include everything from potent V-8s to an advanced hybrid powertrain. With six engines to choose from, it impresses with a maximum 720 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V-6 with 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque
- 5.0L Ti-VCT V-8 with 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque
- 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 with 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque
- 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V-6 with 430 horsepower and 570 pound-feet of torque
- High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost V-6 with 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque
- High-Output Supercharged 5.2L V-8 with 700 horsepower and 640 pound-feet of torque
The 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning comes standard with dual electric motors and has three different battery configurations. The electric F-150 supplies up to 580 horsepower, but where it truly stands out is its jaw-dropping 775 pound-feet of instant torque – a hallmark of its EV powertrain that provides immediate force the moment you hit the accelerator.
- 98 kWh Standard-Range Battery with 452 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque
- 123 kWh Extended-Range Battery with 536 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque
- 131 kWh Extended-Range Battery with 580 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque
Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning Towing Capability
Towing isn't just about power – it's about purpose. In the Ford F-150 vs. electric F-150 showdown, one yields legendary strength honed over decades, while the other redefines what towing means in the electric era.
The 2025 Ford F-150 takes the lead with a maximum rating of 13,500 pounds.1 Still, the Ford F-150 Lightning towing capacity holds its own, offering up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. When it comes to payload, the traditional F-150 can haul up to 2,440 pounds,4 while the Ford electric truck comes close with a 2,329-pound capacity.4
Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning MPG
Fuel economy has an entirely new meaning in the Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning debate – one masters traditional MPG with proven strength, while the other rewrites the rules entirely with electric efficiency and a charge that takes you farther.
Fitted with its 3.5-liter PowerBoost Full Hybrid V-6, the 2025 F-150 has up to an EPA-estimated 22/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 But the Ford electric pickup truck takes driving distance to the next tier. With its 131 kWh Extended Range Battery, the 2025 Lightning achieves up to an EPA-estimated 320 miles of electric range.2 Even better, the 131 kWh battery can recharge from 15% to 80% in about 38 minutes using a Level 3 fast charger.5
Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning Trim Levels
When comparing the Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning pickups, trims play a big role in shaping the truck's personality and intention. From rugged work-ready setups to feature-packed models, each one gives drivers plenty of ways to make these Fords their own.
2025 Ford F-150
The 2025 Ford F-150 has a broad collection of eight trims, from the work-ready XL to the high-performance, off-road-capable Raptor:
- 2025 Ford F-150 XL
- 2025 Ford F-150 STX
- 2025 Ford F-150 XLT
- 2025 Ford F-150 Lariat
- 2025 Ford F-150 Tremor
- 2025 Ford F-150 King Ranch
- 2025 Ford F-150 Platinum
- 2025 Ford F-150 Raptor
2025 F-150 Lightning
The 2025 F-150 Lightning brings a focused lineup of five all-electric trims, with standard heated front seats and an optional 15.5-inch center-stack touchscreen:
- 2025 Ford Lightning Pro
- 2025 Ford Lightning XLT
- 2025 Ford Lightning Flash
- 2025 Ford Lightning Lariat
- 2025 Ford Lightning Platinum
Ford F-150 vs. F-150 Lightning Configurations & Cargo Space
The F-150 and F-150 Lightning trucks are largely made in America, and that reflects a deeper American value – the freedom to choose. The 2025 F-150 embraces this freedom with extensive customization, providing three cab styles – Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew – plus three bed lengths (5.5‑foot, 6.5‑foot, and 8‑foot) and up to 77.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The Ford electric truck keeps things simple with a single SuperCrew configuration and a 5.5‑foot bed providing 52.8 cubic feet of box volume – proving that sometimes freedom can mean choosing simplicity without compromise.
The F-150 Lightning stretches 232.7 inches long and stands 78.5 inches tall across every model – a reflection of its single design. The Ford F-150, by contrast, is all about choice, with lengths ranging from 209.4 to up to 243.9 inches and heights between 75 and 79.8 inches. That variety comes from its lineup of three cab styles, three bed lengths, and eight trims, giving drivers a truck tailored to nearly any need.
Inside, the Ford F-150 and F-150 Lightning present nearly identical front‑seat space, with 40.8 inches of headroom, 43.9 inches of legroom, 66.7 inches of shoulder room (66.6 on the Raptor), and 62.5 inches of hip room, no matter the cab. The real variation comes in the rear row, where the SuperCab and Regular Cab of the non-electric F-150 give slightly different dimensions.
The Final Hitch: Deciding Between the F-150 & Lightning Pickup Truck
So, do you go for the 2025 Ford F-150 or F-150 Lightning? McGee Ford of Montpelier invites you to explore both and experience them firsthand with a test drive in the heart of Central Vermont. As America's best-selling truck since 1977, either choice is a win.
Frequently Asked Questions Comparing the Ford F-150 and F-150 Lightning
Which is better: the Ford F-150 or F-150 Lightning?
Choosing between the 2025 Ford F-150 and the F-150 Lightning really comes down to your preferences. The traditional F-150 is ideal if you want maximum towing capability, a wider variety of configurations, and multiple engine options. On the other hand, the F-150 Lightning appeals to drivers interested in an all-electric truck, impressive range, capable towing capacity, and instant torque.
Are the interior features the same between the F-150 and F-150 Lightning?
The 2025 F-150 and Lightning share many of the same interior features, such as a standard 12-inch touchscreen. However, the Lightning comes with standard heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and adds innovations like Pro Power Onboard outlets plus an available 15.5 touchscreen. The F-150 leans into utility with the fold-flat work surface, but additional refinements like heated seats are on higher trims.
How far can the F-150 Lightning drive on a single charge?
The 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning range depends on the battery configuration. The 98 kWh Standard Range Battery delivers an EPA-estimated EV range of 240 miles.2 Upgrading to the 131 kWh Extended Range Battery increases range up to an EPA-estimated 320 miles,2 while certain trims equipped with the 123 kWh Extended Range Battery offer around 300 miles2 on a single charge.
How long does it take to fully charge the F-150 Lightning?
Charging time for the 2025 Lightning varies depending on battery size and charging method. Using a Level 2 home charger, the 98 kWh battery takes about 10 hours for a full charge,5 while the 131 kWh battery takes 13 hours.5 With DC fast charging, the Standard Range battery can go from 15% to 80% in 32 minutes,5 and the Extended Range battery takes roughly 38 minutes.5
Which truck is better for daily driving: the gas F-150 or F-150 Lightning?
For daily driving, the F-150 Lightning shines with its efficient electric setup, achieving lower costs and a quiet, smooth ride. Both it and the gas-powered F-150 showcase smart tech and upscale amenities, but the F-150's array of configurations makes it more adaptable to everyday needs. In higher trims, both trucks blend comfort, convenience, and capability into a tailored driving experience.
Can the F-150 Lightning handle heavy-duty work like towing and hauling?
The 2025 F-150 Lightning unleashes an outstanding towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds when properly equipped. To hit this tow rating, drivers require the Pro, Flash, or Lariat trims outfitted with 123 kWh or 131 kWh Extended Range Battery and the addition of the Max Trailer Tow Package. In addition, the Ford EV truck has a max payload weight of 2,329 pounds.4
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1When properly equipped. See dealer for details.
2EPA-estimated driving range based on full charge. Actual driving range varies with conditions such as external environment, vehicle use, vehicle maintenance, high-voltage battery age and state of health.
3EPA-estimated city/hwy mpg for the model indicated. See fueleconomy.gov for fuel economy of other engine/transmission combinations. Actual mileage will vary. On plug-in hybrid models and electric models, fuel economy is stated in MPGe. MPGe is the EPA equivalent measure of gasoline fuel efficiency for electric mode operation.
4Maximum payload capabilities are for properly equipped vehicles with required equipment and vary based on vehicle configuration, accessories, and option content. Horsepower, torque, payload and towing are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.
5Based on full charge. USA EPA-Est. range based on analytical projection consistent with US EPA combined drive cycle. Actual range varies with conditions such as external environment, vehicle use, vehicle maintenance, high-voltage battery age and state of health.