2021 Ford F-150 vs 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
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2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
$39,974MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
$39,974MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Ford F-150 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the F-150 Lightning emerges as the preferred choice for its innovative electric powertrain, superior performance, and forward-looking features, despite its higher initial cost. Assuming, of course, you’re seeking a truck with an electric powertrain.

Overview

MSRP

$29,290

MSRP

$39,974

Average price

$40,829

Average price

$52,450

Listings

8777

Listings

224
Ratings & Reviews
User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Impressive electric powertrain
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Extended-range models are pricey

2021 Ford F-150 Reviews Summary

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Reviews Summary

Electric vehicles have been kicking around America for some time now. From the ill-fated General Motors EV1 to the early success of the Nissan Leaf and on to the meteoric rise of Tesla, we’ve had plenty of time to get used to EVs. But there’s never before been an EV with as much mass appeal as the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning.
Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle

Engine

452 hp Electric

Drive Train

4X2

Drive Train

AWD

Seating Capacity

3

Seating Capacity

5

EV Battery Capacity

EV Battery Capacity

98 kWh

MPG City

20

MPG City

76

MPG Highway

24

MPG Highway

61

Battery Charge Time (120V)

Battery Charge Time (120V)

95 hours

Battery Charge Time (240V)

Battery Charge Time (240V)

15 hours
2021 Ford F-150
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
$39,974MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Ford F-150
$29,290MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
$39,974MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2021 Ford F-150 is 7.8 out of 10, while the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning scores 8.3 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the F-150 Lightning emerges as the preferred choice for its innovative electric powertrain, superior performance, and forward-looking features, despite its higher initial cost. Assuming, of course, you’re seeking a truck with an electric powertrain.

Overview
MSRP
$29,290
$39,974
Average price
$40,829
$52,450
Listings
Ratings & Reviews
User reviews
4.7
4.4
Expert reviews

7.8 out of 10

Read full review

8.3 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons
Pros
  • Multiple body styles
  • Multiple powertrain options
  • Impressive technology
Cons
  • Underwhelming base engine
  • Interior materials feel cheap
  • Advanced safety features are not standard
Pros
  • Impressive electric powertrain
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Comfortable
Cons
  • Extended-range models are pricey
Summary

The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the bestselling vehicle in the United States for decades, so a lot is at stake with any redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 plays it safe, with changes that are smaller in scope than the truck’s previous redesign (for the 2015 model year), but nonetheless significant.

This latest redesign brought an updated version of the previous-generation truck’s bold styling, a revamped interior with more convenience features, and the new Sync 4 infotainment system, as well as an available PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This is the first time Ford has offered an F-150 hybrid, and the PowerBoost is currently the only full-hybrid powertrain available in a full-size pickup truck.

The F-150’s traditional rivals are the Chevrolet Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 twins and Ram 1500, along with the slower-selling Nissan Titan and Toyota Tundra.

Ford offers a staggering array of options, including six trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited), three cab configurations, three bed sizes, six powertrains, and the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Our test vehicle was an F-150 King Ranch with the SuperCrew cab, 4WD, and the PowerBoost hybrid powertrain.

Electric vehicles have been kicking around America for some time now. From the ill-fated General Motors EV1 to the early success of the Nissan Leaf and on to the meteoric rise of Tesla, we’ve had plenty of time to get used to EVs. But there’s never before been an EV with as much mass appeal as the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning.
Video
Popular Features & Specs
Engine
3.3L 290 hp V6 Flex Fuel Vehicle
452 hp Electric
Drive Train
4X2
AWD
Seating Capacity
3
5
EV Battery Capacity
98 kWh
MPG City
20
76
MPG Highway
24
61
Battery Charge Time (120V)
95 hours
Battery Charge Time (240V)
15 hours
Look and feel
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
8/10
The Ford F-Series pickup has been America's top-selling vehicle for decades, emphasizing the significance of each redesign. The 2021 Ford F-150 introduced a cautious evolution rather than a revolution, maintaining its predecessor's bold styling while integrating modern features like the new Sync 4 infotainment system and the debut of a PowerBoost hybrid powertrain. This iteration marked the first time a full-hybrid option is available in the full-size pickup segment, offering a blend of traditional F-150 virtues with enhanced fuel efficiency and power. In contrast, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning represented a bold leap into the future, symbolizing one of the most significant shifts in the pickup truck market by fully embracing electric vehicle (EV) technology. Maintaining the F-150's renowned versatility and capability, the Lightning added the benefits of electric power, promising impressive performance, reduced running costs, and a unique driving experience without compromising the truck's fundamental utility.
Performance
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
10/10
The performance ratings diverge more significantly, with the 2021 F-150 receiving an 8 out of 10 and the Lightning a perfect 10 out of 10. The 2021 F-150's variety of powertrains, including the introduction of the PowerBoost hybrid, offers a balance of power and efficiency, with the hybrid powertrain offering the highest horsepower and torque figures among its options. Despite its capability, the transition between electric and hybrid modes can be jarring, although its overall road manners are commendable. The Lightning shines with its dual electric motors, delivering up to 563 horsepower and an astounding 775 pound-feet of torque, providing all-wheel drive and a locked differential as standard. Its performance is not just about straight-line speed; it also includes thoughtful engineering like an independent rear suspension for improved handling. The electric powertrain offers a compelling blend of efficiency and capability, with a range of up to 320 miles on the extended battery option, setting a new benchmark for electric pickups.
Form and function
2021 Ford F-150
8/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
9/10
Functionality scores are also strong, with the 2021 model scoring an 8 and the Lightning a 9. The 2021 F-150's adaptability as a mobile office and its generous storage solutions highlight Ford's attention to the practical needs of truck owners. The Lightning builds on this foundation by introducing the innovative Mega Power Frunk and an impressive 9.6-kilowatt onboard power supply, enhancing the truck's utility as a mobile power source while maintaining competitive towing and payload capacities.
Technology
2021 Ford F-150
9/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
7/10
Technology ratings see the 2021 F-150 leading with a 9 out of 10, compared to the Lightning's 7. The 2021 model's Sync 4 system sets a high bar with its intuitive interface and comprehensive connectivity features. Although the Lightning boasts visually impressive tech and large touchscreen displays across its trim levels, its overall user experience may not feel as cohesive as its traditional counterpart, reflecting the challenges of integrating advanced technologies into user-friendly packages.
Safety
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
9/10
Safety assessments favor the Lightning with a 9 out of 10, surpassing the 2021 F-150's rating of 7. While full crash-test ratings were pending for the 2021 model, its array of driver-assistance features represented a solid foundation. The Lightning, however, extends these offerings with standard and optional safety technologies across all trims, including the advanced BlueCruise hands-free driving system, showcasing the potential for electric vehicles to lead in safety innovations.
Cost Effectiveness
2021 Ford F-150
7/10
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
7/10
Both vehicles score a 7 out of 10 in cost-effectiveness, reflecting their value propositions within their respective segments. The 2021 F-150's hybrid option offers modest fuel savings but comes at a premium, while its broad range of configurations allows for a wide spectrum of pricing. The Lightning's initial cost may seem steep, especially for models equipped with the extended-range battery, but its overall value is enhanced by potential fuel savings, tax credits, and the intrinsic benefits of electric drivetrains.
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By: CarGurus + AI

This car comparison has been created with using generative AI. It is based entirely on CarGurus expert review content, ratings and data, and leverages our extensive library of hands-on product tests to create thousands of unique comparisons to help shoppers choose the right car.